The report unpacks the impact of impact of decisions that have subordinated vocational education to the academic learning track. The Mitchell Institute argues sensibly that VET must be on equal footing, both in school and tertiary education.<\/p>\n

The apprenticeship model’s attraction is that it closely intertwines work and learning. It’s a platform for developing capabilities essential in workplaces, and which are as compelling for employers as knowledge and technical skills. The Institute’s capabilities shortlist includes critical thinking, problem solving, curiosity, interpersonal skills, self-regulation, entrepreneurial skills, teamwork and craftsmanship.<\/p>\n

There’s plenty of scope beyond training that provides us with professional tradespeople like sparkies, hairdressers and carpenters. As the report pitches it, there is nothing stopping us from ‘exploring bachelor degree-level apprenticeships, or apprenticeships in emerging and growth industries such as the caring industry and professional services.’<\/p>\n

The national conversation about broader application of the apprenticeship model is becoming livelier, and more pressing. We are moving, if slowly, from proposals to action.<\/p>\n