A study analyzed mitigating conditions and factors that prevented the uptake of apprenticeships and traineeships among young people aged 15-19 years of age who had left school in Victoria, Australia. Data were based on a thesis completed in May 2000 involving analysis of theoretical research, observation in the field, and case study interviews with secondary school educators involved in career education and vocational education and training coordination. The range of mitigating conditions included labor market statistics that demonstrated a prejudice against youth; attitudes of parents, teachers, and students (including peer pressure); inadequate training for teachers; a general lack of understanding and appreciation of the vocational potential of apprenticeships and traineeships; and a secondary education system that provides a curriculum that is biased toward higher education, consequently serving a minority of students. Findings indicated society must recognize the potential value of apprenticeships and traineeships, and that a secondary school environment is needed that acknowledges and provides equitable rewards for students that possess skills that are not based on traditional academic abilities. (Contains 53 references.) (YLB)