I was an apprentice many years ago (in Geoffs time). The company took on about 30 annually and the first 12 to 18 months was spent in their own purpose built training school, one day a week was spent in the local tech getting the paper qualifications. There were 3 instructors at the training school and you got away with nothing. even to the point all work ceased at 4pm and the benches, lathes and floor were swept and inspected! all tools had to be returned to the store or you didn't go home until it was found (usually a 0-1 micrometer in somebody's overalls).
Work was taught and carried out to a high standard. What did it teach me - Respect, discipline and get the job right first time to a high standard! Yes they did sack people in those days, unlike today where we have become a pc society where respect and discipline no longer count.
