National Youth Employment Body Entry to Care Roles Skills Trial: evaluation findings and implications for systemic change

This study examined how the National Skills Trial model worked for young people and employers in the care sector.

At a glance

Key findings included:

• pre-existing local relationships were vital in gaining support from employers
• employers were keen to address current and looming staff shortages
• an enabling organisation helped to marshal resources and build links
• young people valued the opportunity to explore career options
• research participants agreed that the Entry to Care Roles Skill Set (ECRSS) is well-designed and fit for the purpose 
• however, negative society-wide preconceptions about aged care and disability support deter young people from pursuing careers in those sectors
• there was a mismatch in work expectations between employers and young people

Dive deeper

The National Skills Trial aimed not only to counter the immediate effects of the COVID pandemic by offering young people a stepping stone into employment in aged care and disability support, but also to address entrenched problems facing young jobseekers.