Increasing risk in the 'scary' world of work? Male and female resistance to crossing gender lines in apprenticeships in England and Wales.

V. Beck, A. Fuller & L. Unwin, Journal of Education and Work, v.19, n.3, 2006, pp.271-90.

Gender segregation is an acknowledged fact in the United Kingdom labour market. To investigate this continuing phenomenon, the English Equal Opportunities Commission studied student approaches to career decision-making, attitudes influencing students' occupational choices and their attitudes towards apprenticeships. Qualitative and quantitative data were gained through questionnaires administered to 1,281 14-15-year olds from eight English schools and 535 15-16-year olds from four Welsh schools, while 73 English participants also took part in focus groups. Results showed that students' career decisions appeared to be based on risk avoidance strategies. A general lack of information about the labour market, specific occupations and apprenticeships was identified among students, for whom staying on in education was perceived as the least risky career option. Girls were found to be more likely than boys to take the risks associated with choosing a job traditionally done by the opposite sex. Bridging initiatives such as work experience and probationary periods might provide students, particularly girls, with sufficient career knowledge to encourage them to consider a non-traditional occupation.