This report presents findings of an evaluation of the Trades Education (TRADEC) schemes to report on the approach's distinctive features and to assess its effectiveness and potential to meet the needs of the populations it serves. Chapter 1 describes the origins and key features of TRADEC courses; succeeding chapters examine how they were implemented. These key features and issues in the operation of the TRADEC system are commented upon in chapters 2 through 9: initiating and maintaining a TRADEC scheme; the client populations; special curriculum features; learner benefits; employer involvement and commitment; implementation, monitoring, and support; assessment; and costs and viability. Chapter 10 presents five case studies of selected schemes within the five fields in which implementation has been achieved. The final chapter compares TRADEC both with conventional vocational day-release courses and the emerging schemes of vocational preparation. It concludes that TRADEC schemes in design have the potential to align themselves with other approaches, but in operational terms more needs to be done. (YLB)