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This paper presents a model of local partnerships between industry and education providers that was found to be particularly effective in improving the pathways for young people from secondary school to work and/or further education and training. In 2004, the Victorian Qualifications Authority sponsored Pathway Development Pilot Projects to expand options within the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) framework. Findings from an evaluation of these projects indicated that conditions such as a strong relationship between project partners and an experienced project coordinator led to clearly negotiated partnerships and effective progam designs. The paper will explain how the elements of successful projects contributed to clearer career focus for students and, in some cases, re-engagement of disaffected learners. The paper also explores how lessons learned through evaluative enquiry have informed policy on broadening educational provision to meet specific local needs of young people with a view to enhancing their vocational understandings and insights about their personal career trajectories.