This article presents the findings from research conducted on a work-related learning programme for disengaged and disaffected 14-16-year-olds. The article begins by examining work-related learning within the context of national policy developments in England. The findings from the research are analysed in relation to the capacity of workplace learning to impact upon the schooling of the participating young people. The analysis focuses upon a range of issues including the problems of securing transfer between workplace- and school-based settings, and the importance of social and cultural capital in shaping the nature of the participants' workplace-based experiences. (Contains 1 note.)