Every year, thousands of young people have to decide what they want to do once they have finished their compulsory education. Many in Switzerland choose the academic route – higher secondary school and a pre-university qualification (“Matura”). However, the majority opt for vocational education and training (VET). In Switzerland, this is a dual-track system whereby students attend classes at a VET school or college on a part-time basis, while the remaining time is spent doing an apprenticeship at a host company, allowing them to acquire on-the-job experience and practical skills.