This study used the qualitative semi-structured interview method to collect data to discover
Solomon Islands parents' educational and career aspirations for their children and their
perceptions of formal secondary education in the Solomon Islands with respect to their
children's preparation for meeting these aspirations. In carrying out the research, four couples
were selected as participants and categorized into two groups according to their educational
attainment (well educated and less educated).
What was found was that, although parents have educational and career aspirations for their
children, not all parents were specific. The findings also suggested that the career aspirations
parents have were mainly influenced by economic and social factors rather than internal
factors.
In relation to parents' perception of the formal secondary education system in terms of
preparing students for work, the findings suggested parents have both a positive and low
opinion of formal secondary education in the Solomon Islands. There was also a mixed feeling
and point to the idea that there are other factors such as teachers and curriculum subjects that
impacted on the perceptions of success or vice-versa of the secondary education system.
The findings also suggested that while parents appreciate the vocational curriculum and
education system as preparing students for work (than secondary education), preference
however was given to secondary education first and foremost.
