The research investigated the learning preferences of New Apprentices and training preferences of their trainers in the manufacturing, community and retail services sectors, and outlines how this data can be used to inform trainers. The study showed that the preferred workplace features of trainers and New Apprentices in manufacturing were quite different from those in retail and community services. The nature of work and industry shapes what is expected to support learning in any particular workplace. The practicalities of industry workplaces mean that preferences cannot always be met, and hence the expectations of both trainers and New Apprentices need to be clarified early in their working relationship.
This report results from a study investigating the role of the workplace trainer. Workplace trainers are assuming an increasingly critical role in the provision of training opportunities as more and more training is expected to take place on the job. The report investigates the extent to which workplace trainers, especially in micro and small enterprises are ready, willing and able to meet their new role.