‘It’s not like a normal 9 to 5!’: the learning journeys of media production apprentices in distributed working conditions

Abstract

An apprenticeship in media production in England is at the centre of this case study exploration. The context is exemplified by the organisation of the process of production around project teams and the development of project-based working cultures. Given these developments, the working conditions and learning opportunities presented to apprentices can be characterised as de-centred and distributed. This contrasts with the characterisation of apprentices’ learning as novices who develop expertise in stable, well-bounded vocational communities. Through an analysis of young apprentices’ journeys, we argue that despite the challenges presented, the case study exemplifies the extent to which the apprenticeship is capable of innovation in project working as opposed to full employment conditions. Through its focus on media apprentices’ journeys, this paper makes visible the specific experience of learning in project working, distributed and de-centred working conditions. We conclude by referring to an ideal typical conception of the model of learning underpinning the apprenticeship which may be useful as an heuristic tool for others involved in designing and/or researching apprenticeships in project working conditions.

Key Words:

• Apprenticeship
• social capital
• project working
• model of learning
• media production

Notes

1. The sector skills council with responsibility for the sector.

2. Luke was offered a contract position following on from his final work placement.

3. Raggy was offered a trainee camera position with the production company following the placement.