justIELTS

Write better, score higher.

IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

In some countries in Europe, some children from the age of 11 or 13 go to schools to learn more practical skills that will help them get a job. Other children stay in schools which provide a more general academic education. What should schools do to prepare students for the world of work? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

😩 Feeling stuck? View sample answers below ⬇️ or get another random Task 2 topic.

🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

In some countries in Europe, some children from the age of 11 or 13 go to schools to learn more practical skills that will help them get a job. Other children stay in schools which provide a more general academic education. What should schools do to prepare students for the world of work?

In some European countries, children as young as 11 or 13 attend specific schools to learn practical skills for future employment, while others continue with a more general academic education. Both approaches have their merits, and schools should aim to strike a balance between practical and academic learning to prepare students for the world of work.

Firstly, schools should incorporate practical skills into their curriculum. This can include vocational subjects such as carpentry, culinary arts, or computer programming. By gaining hands-on experience in these areas, students can develop valuable skills that are directly applicable to the workforce. For example, in Finland, students have the option to attend vocational schools where they can learn trades such as welding or automotive repair, providing them with practical skills early on.

However, it is also crucial for schools to provide a well-rounded academic education. Subjects such as mathematics, languages, and sciences are essential for developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, which are highly valued in the workplace. Moreover, a strong academic foundation can open doors to higher education and advanced career opportunities in the future.

In conclusion, schools should strike a balance between practical and academic education to best prepare students for the world of work. By offering a mix of vocational and academic subjects, students can develop both the practical skills and intellectual abilities necessary for success in their future careers. Ultimately, a well-rounded education that encompasses both practical and academic learning will best equip students to thrive in the world of work.

Model Essay #2:

In some countries in Europe, some children from the age of 11 or 13 go to schools to learn more practical skills that will help them get a job. Other children stay in schools which provide a more general academic education. What should schools do to prepare students for the world of work?

In some European countries, there is a division in education where some children attend practical skills-focused schools from the age of 11 or 13, while others receive a more general academic education. While practical skills are important, schools should primarily focus on providing students with a strong academic foundation to prepare them for the world of work.

Firstly, academic education equips students with essential critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Subjects like mathematics, sciences, and languages are fundamental in developing a logical and analytical mindset, which is crucial in various professional fields. For instance, a student proficient in mathematics can apply their problem-solving skills to fields such as engineering, finance, or technology, providing them with diverse career opportunities.

Moreover, a strong academic background opens doors to higher education and advanced career paths. Many professions, such as medicine, law, or research, require a solid academic foundation and further specialized education. Therefore, schools should prioritize providing rigorous academic instruction to ensure that students have the option to pursue higher education and specialized careers if they choose to do so.

While practical skills are valuable, they can often be acquired through vocational training or on-the-job experience. By focusing on academic education, schools lay a strong foundation that enables students to adapt to various career paths and continue learning throughout their lives. Practical skills can then be developed through specialized training programs or apprenticeships tailored to specific industries.

In conclusion, schools should prioritize academic education to prepare students for the world of work. By focusing on providing a strong academic foundation, schools equip students with essential skills and knowledge that can be applied across a wide range of professions. While practical skills are important, they can be acquired through vocational training, making a strong academic background the key priority for schools in preparing students for the world of work.

✍️ Evaluate your essay for free

You can submit your essay for free evaluation. We will provide you with your score and give you feedback on how to improve your essay.

Sign in or register to submit your essay.

🤓 More IELTS Writing Task 2 topics

Get a random essay topic or choose from topics below:

Or view the list of all tasks.