Reflections on Youth Training: toward a new model of training experience?

Abstract

AbstractThis paper draws on a study of trainee attitudes to youth training in the Central England region. It is part of an ongoing research project, the second stage of which analyses training provider and employers' attitudes. Drawing on a combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches, this paper critically examines the apparent paradox of young people expressing positive attitudes about what they see as an imperfect scheme. Following on such discussion, the paper considers more effective ways of improving the youth training experience. Our conclusion is that while youth training has come a long way since the bad old days of the Youth Opportunities Scheme and the Youth Training Scheme, there remains significant room for improvement within existing limitations of the scheme. The research team sought to add value to the study by making a film of the research to enhance dissemination with end users, including schools, colleges, training providers, employers, careers service. Training and Enterprise Councils and others.