Some think that children should learn practical skills at school instead of academic subjects. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

BAND 7

Essay 1 – Balanced (Opinion: Both are important, but academics first)

Some people believe schools should teach children practical skills like cooking or repairing things, while others argue that academic subjects are more important. Both views have merit, but I think schools should mainly focus on academics, with some space for practical learning.

On one hand, practical skills are useful in daily life. For example, cooking, managing money, or basic first aid can help children become independent. These skills prepare students for real-world challenges, especially if they do not continue higher education. In addition, learning such skills can make school more enjoyable and less stressful for those who find academic study difficult.

On the other hand, academic subjects such as mathematics, science, and languages form the foundation for future careers. Without strong academic knowledge, students may struggle to enter university or qualify for professional jobs. Schools exist to provide this foundation, which parents and society expect. Practical skills can often be learned at home or through extracurricular courses, while advanced academic teaching is harder to access outside of school.

In my opinion, academic subjects should remain the main focus of education, but schools can include some basic practical lessons. This would create a balanced system where children gain essential knowledge for their future careers as well as useful life skills.

Essay 2 – Balanced (Opinion: Practical skills are equally important)

There is an ongoing debate about whether schools should focus more on practical skills instead of academic subjects. In my view, both are important, but schools should give more space to practical learning than they do now.

Practical subjects such as cooking, carpentry, or financial management are highly valuable. These skills prepare children for everyday life and give them confidence in handling real-world problems. For instance, knowing how to cook or budget money is something that benefits every individual, regardless of their profession. Such skills also reduce over-dependence on parents or external services.

However, academic subjects are still crucial. They provide the knowledge needed for higher education and skilled careers. Without mathematics, science, or language studies, young people would not be able to progress into medicine, engineering, law, or other fields that society relies on. Academic learning also develops problem-solving and critical thinking abilities, which are essential in the modern world.

Overall, I believe schools should not replace academics with practical skills, but they should teach both. Giving equal attention to each will ensure students are prepared not only for their careers but also for managing daily life effectively.

BAND 8

Essay 3 – Balanced (Opinion: Academics more important but some skills needed)

The question of whether schools should prioritise practical skills over academic subjects has divided opinion for many years. While I agree that life skills are valuable, I believe the primary role of schools is to deliver academic knowledge, with practical training playing a supportive role.

Supporters of practical education argue that skills such as cooking, financial literacy, and household maintenance equip children for real-life situations. In many cases, young adults leave school unable to manage money, prepare meals, or perform simple repairs, which makes them overly dependent on others. Including such subjects in the curriculum could make students more self-reliant and reduce future difficulties in adulthood.

Nevertheless, the central purpose of education is to prepare students for intellectual and professional advancement. Academic subjects, including mathematics, literature, and science, open the doors to higher education and skilled employment. If schools neglect these areas, students may struggle to compete in the global economy. Moreover, while practical skills are helpful, they can often be learned at home or through community programmes, whereas specialised academic teaching requires trained educators.

In my opinion, schools should strike a balance, but with a greater emphasis on academics. A small proportion of the curriculum could be devoted to practical life skills, ensuring students leave school prepared for both university and independent living.

Essay 4 – Balanced (Opinion: Equal importance for both)

Some argue that practical life skills should be taught in schools, while others insist that academic subjects must take priority. I believe both are equally important, and schools should integrate them to provide a complete education.

Advocates of practical skills highlight their immediate usefulness. Being able to cook, manage a budget, or perform basic first aid are abilities that benefit every individual regardless of career choice. Students who acquire these skills develop independence, resilience, and confidence in dealing with everyday challenges. Moreover, practical education can engage learners who struggle with purely theoretical subjects, making school more inclusive.

On the contrary, academic subjects are the foundation of professional and intellectual development. Mathematics, sciences, and languages are indispensable for entry into higher education and the modern workforce. Without these, students would be disadvantaged in pursuing careers in medicine, technology, engineering, or international business. Academic knowledge also nurtures analytical thinking and creativity, which cannot easily be gained outside of formal schooling.

In my view, education should not force a choice between the two. Instead, schools should blend academic excellence with essential life skills. By doing so, young people will graduate not only equipped for professional success but also prepared for the practical demands of adult life.