Transitions in senior phase learning [Editorial]

Abstract

Throughout the world, practices and policies of technical training, career and vocational education are enacted in many and different types of senior secondary schooling environments. Within these differences, there are many similarities (European Commission, 2006). There is much to be learned through sharing the stories of senior phase education and training reform, the relationships among people involved, and the ways in which young people’s resilience may be fostered during the critical transition period from school-to-work and life in a civil society. Reform is occurring at system levels as well as in curriculum planning and pedagogical practices. Relationships among young people, their teachers, parents/guardians and employers are as important as they ever were. The resilience of students, school staff and systems to cope with ever changing challenges to education and training in a globalised knowledge economy is to be celebrated and cherished. This edition of VOCAL examines the issue of transitions in the senior phase of learning, from initial education to the world of work.