Preparing Students for the New Work Order: the case of Advanced General National Vocational Qualifications

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Abstract
Drawing upon data from a recent empirical study, this article examines the extent to which Advanced General National Vocational Qualification (GNVQ) programmes fulfil the implied, and often contradictory requirements of the new post‐capitalist labour market. Arguing that the rhetoric of empowerment is employed in discourses surrounding both GNVQs and modern labour market needs, it suggests that this notion can be misleading and can mask practices which are in reality disempowering, encouraging conformity and self‐surveillance. In particular the atomisation of content encouraged by the GNVQ framework and specifications, coupled with the heavy workload and changing requirements, make it difficult for both students and teachers to plan coherently or to develop holistic understanding. Despite this, however, the article concludes that the programme is popular with both teachers and students and has the potential to provide a vehicle for meaningful learning and personal development.