Parents say that obtaining plumbing qualifications will make someone more employable than if they opt for a History, English or Foreign Languages degree.

In a survey of just over 3500 parents, commissioned by the Edge Foundation and the City & Guilds Group, only 8% feel that studying for a history degree at university would make a graduate ‘very employable’ in the current job market.

Less than a quarter (22%) of parents said that an English degree would put a young person in the ‘very employable’ category, with a third (33%) saying the same about a foreign language degree.

In comparison, well over half (57%) of respondents rated a young person with a plumbing qualification or apprenticeship as being ‘very employable’ – higher than both a law degree (53%) and a science degree (52%).

Other vocational qualifications rated highly by parents for employability in the current job market include:  IT (51%), accountancy (44%), automotive engineering (44%) and construction (43%).

However, despite this support for more practical and vocational qualifications, the research – which has been launched to mark The Skills Show* – also reveals that just 16% of parents hope their child will complete an apprenticeship, or have done in the past.

Additionally, only 8% of parents were keen on their child gaining a level 2 vocational qualification and 13% for a level 3 qualification. However, less than two-fifths say they know ‘a lot’ or a ‘fair amount’ about these types of achievements (36% and 37% respectively).

Chris Jones, Chief Executive of the City & Guilds Group, a global leader in skills development, said:

“Time and time again, parents are shown to have the most influence on young people. But parents just don’t know enough about all the different career options available. That’s why it’s not surprising that so many of them want their children to go to university; for too long, it was portrayed as the best and only route to success.

“Young people need the opportunity to explore their options and discover exactly what route is right for them – whether it’s an apprenticeship, going straight into employment or pursuing a degree.

“That’s why The Skills Show is such an important event. It gives young people – and parents – the chance to experience a whole range of different careers. I urge parents to come to the event and see for themselves the opportunities that vocational qualifications and apprenticeships can offer.”

Amy Treasure, a mum of three and author of the ‘Mr and Mrs plus Three’ blog about family life said:

“I will definitely be taking my children along to The Skills Show so that they can see for themselves the many opportunities available to them. I’m not equipped to give them all the information they need when it comes to making choices about their future career and that’s why The Skills Show is such an excellent resource. I trust my children to choose the path that is right for them, whether it’s an academic or a vocational one. I just want them to be aware of all their options and able to make an informed decision.”

The research has been released ahead of The Skills Show (www.theskillsshow.com), which takes place from 13 – 15 November. As the UK’s largest skills and careers event, it’s an opportunity for young people to meet employers and discover career opportunities.