The scheme, to be launched by the DfES next month, will allow children aged 14 to 16 to spend two days each week at work, one day at college and two days at school.
Nancy Kelley, a principal policy officer for Barnardo's, welcomed the mix of vocational and academic education, but said schools were assessed on results, so pupils could be encouraged to take vocational training instead of pursuing their studies.
Chris Keates, deputy general secretary of NASUWT, said: "The notion that teachers could force pupils out of the classroom into apprenticeships is strongly refuted. Apprenticeships are for all students who wish to follow a vocational path."
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