Widened participation in post-compulsory and higher education is generally regarded as a result of the growing recognition of the internal and external benefits of higher education, which are categorised either as a private or public good. However, a question can be raised: once these incentives become less promising or less evident, will a strong…

In this introduction to the special issue, the author examines the wider context within which vocational education and training (VET) is set and the surrounding debates. He considers the prominence of neoliberalism and notions of competitiveness, crisis, skill and knowledge. Despite differences between systems of VET with respect to their reach…

This paper uses Habermas' theory of the state and his idea of legitimation crisis to critically evaluate recent reforms in New Zealand designed to engage young people (16-24 years of age) in paid employment and/or education and training. The paper identifies three broad strategies adopted by the state to reclaim the disengaged and hence, resolve…