A survey of school-based vocationally oriented education in the Commonwealth of Nations was based on a series of reports from 42 countries at the primary and secondary level on policy formation, vocational offerings, skills training, and vocational initiatives. Two broad vocational program objectives predominate: trainability and employability. Countries organize their curricula based on their educational objectives and strength of commitment to diversification, the educational level, and the resources available. Vocational programs should introduce vocational education to all students, particularly women. Post-school programs, such as apprenticeships, play an important role. A range of authorities and agencies initiate and maintain education and training at a national level. Smaller countries are creating a viable infrastructure for programs, whereas others are concentrating on initiative and innovation. Commonwealth countries have encountered problems in introducing vocational programs in schools. Curriculum development initiatives lead schools to a broader diversified curriculum incorporating some practical elements. The shortage of trained teachers impedes rapid vocationalization. The cost of implementing vocational training opportunities is high. Programs are intended to facilitate transition from school to work. (This report incorporates excerpts from individual countries.) (NLA)