Quality of structured workplace learning

This document reports on a project that forms part of the Australian National Training Authority Ministerial Council’s Action Plan for Quality for Vocational Education and Training (VET) in Schools. The project sought to identify innovative approaches to enhancing the quality of structured workplace learning (SWL) for VET in schools and more broadly based vocational learning programs and to develop a range of national approaches to further enhance the quality of SWL delivery. The report examines research and 13 case study sites in order to identify six key elements required for the...  [+] Show more

This document reports on a project that forms part of the Australian National Training Authority Ministerial Council’s Action Plan for Quality for Vocational Education and Training (VET) in Schools. The project sought to identify innovative approaches to enhancing the quality of structured workplace learning (SWL) for VET in schools and more broadly based vocational learning programs and to develop a range of national approaches to further enhance the quality of SWL delivery. The report examines research and 13 case study sites in order to identify six key elements required for the delivery of a good quality, relevant and credible SWL experience. These elements are to: (1) ensure efficient, effective and appropriately resourced internal organisational arrangements; (2) establish strong and enduring relationships with clients and stakeholders; (3) manage demand for places sensitively and effectively; (4) ensure work readiness/workplace preparation arrangements are systematic and consistently rigorous for employers and students; (5) aim for mutually beneficial and rewarding workplace experiences for employers and students; and (6) guarantee the reliability of the outcomes of the workplace experience. The report contains seven sections: a summary of the key findings from the project; an outline of the formal requirements and arrangement for the project; project background, context and methodology information; a table providing a snapshot of the arrangements for SWL in each jurisdiction; a summary of the general outcomes of the consultations for the project; an outline of the lessons from the case studies for quality, innovation and best practice in SWL; and a suggested national approach to enhance the quality of outcomes from SWL for VET in schools.