Parents? Don’t worry.
A vocational program is a fantastic path to working life, either as an employee or as an entrepreneur. Always with the option to continue studying at university.
Why a vocational program?
What many teenagers find hardest about choosing a high school program is that they don’t know what they want to do in the future. This means many choose a program they perceive as broad. Many choose based on the premise that they don’t know what they want, rather than what they want. With a vocational program under your belt, you have every opportunity to calmly find out what you want. Meanwhile, you have a job and earn your own money during this time.
- A vocational program quickly leads to employment and your own income.
- Basic university eligibility is included in all vocational programs.
- At least 15 weeks of internship provide both experience and contacts.
What happens when?
School enrollment happens around the same time, but exactly which dates apply to your teenager depend on where you live in the country. You will receive information from the municipality or your teenager’s career counselor.
- High school selection – January–February
- Preliminary admission notification – April
- Re-selection period – April–May
- Final admission – July
- Reserve admission – July/August
Talk about choosing high school at home
Discussing education, career, and the future isn’t always easy. We’ve gathered some questions that might help you in the conversation with your teenager.
- How do you feel about choosing a high school?
- What would you like to work with?
- What do you think is most important about your high school years?
- Which program and direction would you prefer?
- Which high schools offer those programs and directions?
- What do you need from me as a parent/guardian?
Tips as the time approaches
During the autumn term of grade 9, there are many preparations that both you and your teenager can make.
- Attend parent night at the school on choosing high school.
- Visit high school fairs.
- Visit open houses at high schools.
Find and compare high schools
Find high schools and specialized high schools by searching on Utbildningsguiden.
Behind this campaign stands the Swedish Crafts Council, run by Företagarna, the National Organization of Craftsmen, and the Confederation of Swedish Enterprise. The campaign aims to inform about the great opportunities a vocational education provides, both in terms of getting a job and being able to study further at university and starting your own business.