The development and reform of apprenticeship training in Victoria between 1884 and 1987

Apprenticeship, as a means of providing a skilled workforce for Victoria, has been questioned continually and reviewed regularly. It has continued, however, to attract considerable faith as a system of vocational training. This thesis explores and identifies significant developments in and reforms of apprenticeship training in Victoria in the period 1884 and 1987. The thesis seeks to elucidate the choice of, and continuing adherence to, apprenticeship as a model of skills training and significant influences and pressures for reform. The thesis consists of four sections. Section one provides an introduction to the thesis and a background to the state of apprenticeship in Victoria prior to the focal period. Section two deals with the period 1884 to the Second World War and is arranged chronologically, defined by dominant themes in apprenticeship reform. Section Three is arranged thematically and deals with the period from the Second World War to the late 1980s. This third section identifies key factors which drove apprenticeship reform during the 1990s. Section Four reaches conclusions about the significant influences on, and outcomes of, apprenticeship reform during the period considered. Recommendations are made on further research that might be undertaken.

Excerpts from publication. Show less