Guided by the capability approach, this study uses primarily quantitative methods to investigate at scale the capabilities that are valued by students of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in China. It identifies the capabilities valued by 892 vocational students in a mix of rural and urban settings. Fourteen capabilities were identified under three thematic domains: capital, health and agency. Compared with other countries, Chinese TVET students do not place as high a value on agency as is found in other countries. Those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds were more likely to value mental health outcomes and, in general, students’ capability choices were greatly influenced by gender, socioeconomic background and personal experiences. Young males, more than young females, value the capability for economic wellbeing. However, unlike in other countries, males and those from higher socio-economic backgrounds are no more likely than others to attach importance to agentic values. These findings can be interpreted within China’s socioeconomic context and Confucianism-rooted value system. The study contributes to the methodology literature on youth empowerment and ascertaining their voice, further demonstrates the potential of the capability approach in educational contexts and provides a first step towards analysing the broad role of TVET in China. © 2025 The Vocational Aspect of Education Ltd.
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