Industry and employers

This research investigates the way that employers and their apprentices and trainees perceive how English language and literacy skills impact on their learning and performance in the workplace in the current context of new apprenticeships. The research was based on a survey to a sample of Queensland employers and their appentices and trainees as well as case studies interviews across three States. The research found that employers were less positive about their employees' English language and literacy skills than the employees themselves but both groups identified the same skills as in need of improvement. These included using computers, spelling and punctuating writing, writing legibly and interpreting graphical information. While employers were generally happy with the way their appentices and trainees communicated with colleagues and worked to achieve a team goal, interpersonal communication skills to deal with more demanding situations emerged as an area requiring more development.