Future workforce planning in private and public enterprise requires reliable information on which projections are made. Currently limited information exists about vocational education and training (VET) professionals. This report consolidates two national studies on the TAFE workforce, and on VET professionals in private and public registered training organisations. The findings have important implications for workforce planning. Within the TAFE sector, the number of teachers aged over 45 is almost double the average for the Australian workforce, and the employment status is shifting from permanent qualified teachers to non-permanent teachers who are less qualified. Outside the TAFE sector, the credentials of VET professionals are also an issue.
Some students, who complete a preparatory or pre-vocational course in the vocational education and training (VET) sector, re-enrol in the same 'enabling' course or at the same level of qualification in following years. Findings of this report indicate that re-enrolling in enabling courses offers positive outcomes. Students who re-enrol in enabling courses are either undertaking more advanced courses within the same level of qualification, studying to retain or improve their skills, or to gain further skills and experience to progress within the VET system or into the workforce.
This volume is a companion to 'The funding of vocational education and training for students with disabilities: Volume 1'. The detailed report of the project is contained in volume 1 while volume 2 contains the appendices.