News & Info > 'New vocationalism' review features in Independent School Magazine 'New vocationalism' review features in Independent School Magazine We were pleased to see a review of our recent 'Future of Vocational Learning' conference featured in this month's Independent Schools Magazine. The conference, which took place at the School in November, was run in collaboration with Arts University Bournemouth and provided an opportunity for parents, journalists, schools and educational agents to learn more about the concept of 'new vocationalism'. Arts University Bournemouth's Vice Chancellor, Stuart Bartholomew, opened the conference with the observation that career choices for independently educated pupils have become largely predictable and academically-focused, with a stigma still attached to vocational courses. Whilst other countries attribute a high level of esteem to technical or vocational paths, in the UK the notion that 'doing' is inferior to 'thinking' has proven harder to break down. The notion of 'new vocationalism', however, of pupils equipping themselves with a portfolio modern transferable skills in preparation for today's workplace through studying vocational courses, seeks to break down what he called a 'rear view mirror' scenario. The conference also provided the opportunity for Milton Abbey to introduce our comprehensive programme of nine BTEC courses to the audience, currently including Equine Management, Countryside Management, Hospitality, Music, Performing Arts, Sport, Business, Enterprise and Entrepreneurship, and Creative Media Production. Milton Abbey is proud to be leading the way in offering the broadest range of vocational subjects in the independent sector. The January issue of Independent Schools Magazine can be read in full by clicking here. Further information on our BTEC course offering can be found by click here, or by contacting the Admissions Office on 01258 882182 / admissions@miltonabbey.co.uk.