Why are School-Leavers Pursuing A Higher Education Degree Rather Than Joining A Skilled Trade in Ireland

The purpose of this research was to investigate the main influences on school-leavers’ decision to pursue a career path in the construction industry through either a higher-level degree or a skilled trades program in Ireland. Additionally, this study examined how the key influencers on school-leavers, such as parents, teachers and career counsellors view the construction sector. The research applied a mixed- methods research approach. A survey was conducted among 200 mainly 6th year school-leavers across four secondary schools in the Wicklow and Wexford areas in Ireland. Through a questionnaire data was collected about their reasons for deciding on a higher-level degree compared to a skilled trades program. The influencers’ perspective on the construction sector was assessed through semi-structured interviews, enabling triangulation of the data. The findings indicate that most school-leavers were given more information about higher education options than apprenticeship. Furthermore, the research suggests that most school-leavers believed that higher education is considered a superior pathway over joining skilled trades courses. School-leavers see apprenticeships as a lesser achievement than higher education. There is a need to address negative stereotyping associated with apprenticeships and to inform students in secondary school early about the alternative study pathways and career opportunities.