The majority of secondary schools offer academic curricula in science and in
the humanities leading to a matriculation certificate and higher education.
Certain secondary schools offer specialized curricula, which lead to a
matriculation certificate and/or vocational diploma.
Technological schools train technicians and practical engineers on three
levels, with some preparing for higher education, some studying towards a
vocational diploma, and others acquiring practical skills. Agricultural schools, usually in a residential setting, supplement basic
studies with subjects relating to agronomy.
Military preparatory schools train future career personnel and technicians in
specific fields required by the Israel Defense Forces.
Yeshiva high schools, mainly boarding schools, with separate frameworks for
boys and girls, complement their secular curricula with intensive religious
studies and promote observance of tradition and a Jewish way of life.
Comprehensive schools offer studies in a variety of vocations, ranging from
bookkeeping to mechanics, electronics, hotel trades, graphic design, and
more.
Youth not attending one of the above schools are subject to the
Apprenticeship Law, requiring them to study for a trade at an approved
vocational school. Apprenticeship programs are provided by the Ministry of
Industry, Trade, and Labor in schools affiliated with vocational networks.
Lasting three to four years, these programs consist of two years of classroom
study followed by one/two years during which students study three days a week
and work at their chosen trade on the other days. Trades range from hairstyling
and cooking to mechanics and word processing.