The article critically comprehends the mutual influence of projects simultaneously implemented in the education system (a single state exam, a competency-based approach, digital education) and identifies the reasons for their low coherence. The need for a balanced approach in the development and implementation of educational innovations in the education system is shown.

The article presents the original author’s position on the dominant model of implementation of the competence approach in the system of vocational education. Shows the impossibility of formation of professional competence of students in conditions of educational organizations of secondary professional education. The analysis of contradictions between the competence approach, the results of education and the requirements of employers is presented. A model of structural reorganization of the system of secondary vocational education is proposed, which allows to remove some of the indicated contradictions.

The article is devoted to the organization and conduct of professional tests for children of preschool and school age – the first phase of the current in the College system continuing education.