Based on a unique comparative analysis of the education and work experiences of those who lived through the political and labour market changes of the transition to post-communism, the authors argue that, far from catching up with the rest of Germany, the social polarisations and erosion of the traditional 'dual system' of vocational education and training in Eastern Germany may portend the future for the West. The issues raised have considerable resonances with the problems and contradictions which have beset British education and training and labour market policy over the last decade.

Karen Evans is Professor of Post-Compulsory Education at the University of Surrey, UK.

Dedication Acknowledgements Introduction Looking East Perspectives, Plans and Methods Systems Under Strain: Labour Market Conditions and Training Options From 'Old' to 'New': Continuities and Discontinuities as Experienced by a Group of Trainers Labour Market Structures and the Processes of Transition Smooth Transitions: Young Adults' Experience of Vocational Education and Work Entry Broken Transitions Risky Voyages: Learning Experiences, Transition Behaviours and Career Outcomes Navigating Change in Work and Education: Conclusions Relevant to Policy in Europe Bibliography Appendices Index