[user104658]

I don't think it's a terrible idea but it obviously needs some consideration. For one, I wouldn't see it as an "alternative to" continuing in education... those who are academically capable should, ideally, continue with formal education unless they have some reason that they really cannot handle being there. For those who simply aren't academically minded and aren't going to get good grades/enter further education after school anyway... perhaps for some it is a bit of a waste of time beyond the point of adult-level literacy and basic numeracy. At the very least, I think schools should be offering more practical qualifications alongside "traditional" ones.

Though I do think it's also worth bearing in mind that the reason trades make good money is supply and demand and while yes, there is a current lack of skilled tradespeople and we need more, it simply doesn't follow that EVERYONE can gain a trade and make good money.

If you have two or three great plumbers in a medium-sized village, all three are going to have plenty of work and make good money. If you have 20 plumbers in a village... well, they're not all going to make money are they - there are still the same number of contracts to go around. The best 5 - 10 will be in competition for the work (meaning lowering their rates) and the bottom 10 will simply get eff all work.