It clearly pays to have a high school diploma. However, there is far from just one type of secondary school in the Czech Republic. Why does it make sense to study at a vocational secondary school?
When a high school diploma doesn't have to be a win
With a strong 9th grade this year, the debate about grammar schools has flared up again in the Czech Republic. Many pupils leaving primary school have chosen this form of study in cooperation with their parents. But many were disappointed they did not get into their dream school.
Is there any reason for the disappointment? For some members of the general public and professionals, grammar schools are unacceptably elitist, while others see them as a suitable space for developing students' potential. Where is the truth?
The most common argument for studying at a grammar school is preparation for university. However, a student does not profile himself in any way at grammar school. They practically postpone their decision on what field they want to pursue for some time.
At the same time, however, at a very young age he is already heading towards going to college. In a few years, however, he may no longer be inclined to study. Then, of course, the original goal is not fulfilled and the student is left with a general diploma.
Usually, it also becomes apparent during the course of study which direction the student will definitely not take in the future. It is often only in the course of the years that grammar school students discover that foreign languages, for example, are definitely not the field in which they excel. The student will thus profile himself, but at the cost of having to persist for four years in subjects for which he clearly has no aptitude.
Why it pays to study at a vocational school
The rapidly changing job market requires flexibility and the ability to recognise one's own strengths. So it pays to try to make a similar adjustment when choosing a secondary school. This allows your child to develop his or her strengths at an early age and will certainly come in handy in later careers.
If, for example, a primary school pupil is a technical type, it certainly does not hurt if he or she starts studying at an industrial school, for example, and already "flirts" with programming while studying. And the chances are high that he will succeed. Practicality is a great asset of vocational schools. A good quality school will give students an insight into the real operation of companies and allow them to form their first professional contacts.
The European Training Academy is a school where we enable students to acquire the skills with which they have a real chance of finding employment on the labour market, specifically in the field of Logistics and Financial Services 37-42-M/01.
The debate between attending a gymnasium versus a secondary vocational school is indeed thought-provoking, as discussed in the European Academy article. Both paths offer unique benefits and can lead to different career opportunities, much like how various activities can shape one’s personal development.
As a kickboxing coach, I often draw parallels between educational choices and extracurricular activities like kickboxing. Just as a gymnasium provides a broad academic foundation, kickboxing classes for kids offer a well-rounded approach to fitness and discipline. Each choice—whether it’s pursuing a traditional high school diploma or a vocational path—has its own set of advantages that can lead to successful outcomes.
In kickboxing, we emphasize the importance of developing both physical skills and mental resilience. For kids,…