Traineeships in the West German Context

Abstract

In 1985–86 the Australian Government introduced an elaborate scheme of traineeships to complement the already existing apprenticeship scheme. This article shows how the idea as originally conceived, but not as implemented, was based upon the West German dual system. It examines the dual system within the West German setting to see what problems and benefits the traineeship based upon the German system would have in Australia. Its conclusion is that, in spite of apparent problems which the German system has in terms of social demarcation, neglect of certain disadvantaged groups, and appropriateness for technological change, the German system of combining education and work in Australian non-traditional apprenticeship areas is worthwhile attempting in Australia as long as there exists genuine co-operation between industry, education and the state.