Introduction. The article deals with the policy of the modern Russian state in the sphere of secondary vocational education (SVE). Theoretical analysis. Based on the analysis of sources the state of the modern system of secondary vocational education, objective conditions and contradictions of modern modification are shown. The urgency of radical transformations in the work of SVE organizations highlighted. Specificity of the system transformation in the work of SVE organizations as well as transformation of forms and ways of implementing educational activities in accordance with the demands of society and the state are given convincing reasons for. The authors defined the role and place of SVE institutions as a leading factor in the life of the Russian state and civil society in the modern global space, contributing to the achievement of economic, socio-cultural, political and legal goals. Conclusion. Despite the difficulties which accompany the activities of organizations in the system of vocational education and training, the state educational policy in the field of vocational education and training has contributed recently to increasing the attractiveness and respect for college graduates; technical and vocational schools in the country have significantly grown – the Russian labor market demand for middle-level specialists is high. As a result of the state educational policy in the field of vocational education and training, updated forms of interaction between the state and civil society in regulating the sphere of education and training are emerging.