Evaluation report on vocational education and training in schools element of the Commonwealth schools to work programme

Commonwealth and State and Territory Government reforms to reduce youth unemployment are promoting effective and reliable pathways from school to work.  Many of these reforms have been undertaken through collaborative efforts involving Federal and State/Territory Governments, schools, industry, business and unions within the national framework encompassing Vocational Education and Training (VET) activity.

This report examines the aims and objectives of the vocational education and training in schools element (VISE) of the School to Work Programme.  The report describes procedures under which funding was distributed for the programme.  It outlines the evaluation methods adopted for each funding component and considers their operation and the processes by which information was collected.  The data about each funding component was analysed through consultations and questionnaires and the report assesses whether the objectives of the VISE have been achieved with reference to both the State and Strategic Component.  Finally, the report recommends future strategies that may assist in determining future directions in the area of school to work transition.

The key findings of this evaluation relate to:

• VET sector involvement and participation;
• the importance of partnerships in courses;
• the special needs of rural and remote students;
• the benefits of screening, work placements, pre-vocational courses and Year 9 and 10 programmes;
• the provision of support for 'at risk' students; and
• strategies to improve successful outcomes in school-based New Apprenticeships. 

Future strategies proposed relate to the key findings and include: part-time, school-based New Apprenticeships strategies; Year 9 and 10 pathway strategies including programmes for 'at risk' students; rural and remote strategies; and partnership strategies.

Report: download PDF    (434.9 KB, 121 pages)    

Appendices: download PDF    (222.3 KB, 69 pages)