Youth Apprenticeship

Paris and Mason (1995) note that the term youth apprenticeship is used broadly:

"Youth apprenticeship in the United States has yet to acquire a single, nationally accepted definition. In part, this is because these programs are still in their infancy--most existing programs are demonstration projects, pilot programs or small programs serving relatively small numbers of youth apprentices. Unlike European educational programs which are largely held accountable to a national bureaucracy, American education is locally controlled. This local individualization creates difficulty in translating programs from one district to another." (p. 15)

They add that youth apprenticeship programs have the following goals:

"1. Provide youth apprenticeship programs as part of a comprehensive school-to-work transition effort that starts with career exploration and awareness activities and encompasses a broad range of vocational and work-based learning options.

2. Poise program completers for life-long learning and continued education and training by forming direct linkages with work, and/or postsecondary education.

3. Develop an identifiable curriculum base for youth apprentices in collaboration with business, postsecondary and K-12 institutions.

4. Establish business and industry standards that are transferable across the state and provide the youth apprentices with broad exposure to the industry and its occupations.

5. Appoint and train workplace mentors to guide, instruct, counsel and monitor student participation at the workplace.

6. Involve substantial staff development activities for educators and business and industry partners in such areas as curriculum development, career guidance, effective teamwork and mentor training." (p. 21-22)

Youth apprenticeship options have their origins in a variety of institutions. Some are modeled after the German dual system; others are statewide, top-down legislated initiatives; some originate in areas with strong business and education partnerships; and others are industry-driven. Some programs are built on established vocational education programs such as cooperative education, and others are outgrowths of Tech Prep.

Examples of youth apprenticeship programs currently operating in the United States include:

• Tech Prep or 2+2 Apprenticeship

• Pre-Apprenticeship or School-to-Apprenticeship

• Compacts or Business-School Partnerships

References