National Adult Literacy Database

This document was prepared as a background paper for a meeting of the Canadian Council of Directors of Apprenticeship in Ottawa in November 2001.

Some jurisdictions use customized tests to help select apprentices, while others rely on grade level achievement. But the authors notes that as many apprentices start their training 10 years after leaving school, prior academic achievement may not be a reliable indicator of success in an apprenticeship.

The author says is critical to define just what Essential Skills are required for an apprentice to do well both in training and on the job. With an appropriate curriculum, a support network might be able to help apprentices prepare for the significant demands of reading, document use, numeracy and other skills they need for success in trades.