This work analyzes the context of post-compulsory education through the stories of ten people entering the world of youth training in Britain. The stories are grounded in policies emphasizing individual responsibility for education and training in a market built around neutral careers guidance.

Chapter 1 Prologue The Purpose and Structure of the Book; Chapter 2 Training Credits and the Transition to Work in Post-Thatcherite Britain; Chapter 3 Stakeholders and Training Credits; Chapter 4 Anticipations and Forced Change: Helen's Story; Chapter 5 Victim, Fool or Rebel?: Laura's Story; Chapter 6 Choice, Empowerment and Unsatisfactory Training: Elaine and Alison; Chapter 7 NVQs and On- and Off-the-Job Training: Clive and Becky; Chapter 8 General Satisfaction and Untroubled Progress: David, Peter, Sam and Frances; Chapter 9 Markets, Vouchers and Training Policy; Chapter 10 Career Decision Making and Culture in the Transition from School to Work;