The authors provide an overview of past and present trends in career guidance, career education, and vocational training in Hong Kong. Particular attention is given to evaluating career education policies and how these have evolved and affected practices in secondary schools over the past few decades. Topics also covered within the paper include students who drop out, mentor systems, teacher training, vocational training vs. university education, and parent involvement. Two representative case studies are used to illustrate successful programmes. The future development of career education and vocational training in Hong Kong is anticipated, and implications for school-based career counselling practices are considered.