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NCVER - Apprenticeships and traineeships in the downturn

A new paper released by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research argues that apprentice commencements, more than completions, are in need of attention in a recession.

Apprenticeships and traineeships in the downturn describes what we know about apprenticeships and traineeships, with a view to assessing the likely impact of the current economic downturn on them.

Key messages in the paper include:

• There is considerable evidence that the downturn has hit apprenticeships, although there appears to be a lesser effect on traineeships.
• In terms of what matters, it is argued that it is commencements rather than completions that need attention.
• Policies need to distinguish between apprentices and trainees and take account of the very different circumstances that apply at the occupation level.

The paper states that it is important in the debate to remember the origins of traineeships—the high levels of unemployment in the 1980s. They were primarily seen as a way of reducing unemployment, rather than a skilling strategy. This may be particularly pertinent to disadvantaged groups for which traineeships may be especially important.

To download a copy of this publication, visit http://www.ncver.edu.au/publications/2197.html