Search results

A recently completed comparative study of work experience and vocational placement programs in schools suggests that there is a significant overlap between both types of program in terms of benefits to students, schools, employers and communities. The study was conducted by means of questionnaire surveys of 2285 students (including 234 vocational placement students) from public and private schools in New South Wales, South Australia and Queensland, and from private schools in Victoria and Tasmania, 42 teachers from these schools, 292 workplace supervisors and 170 vocational placement coordinators responsible for programs within the different states. The project investigated the perceived benefits for students of workplace experience compared with vocational placement programs. A secondary aim sought to establish whether work experience programs still had a place in providing work-related experience for students.