Management Development, Making it All Worthwhile: Introducing a Tripartite System of Transfer Grounded in the Relationships Inherent in an Apprenticeship Model of Delivery

This study investigates the link between the tripartite actors involved in an apprenticeship and the known variables identified in successful transfer of training. A new systems-based model of transfer is proposed which integrates the pre training environment, learning phase and post training environment with the tripartite actors inherent in an apprenticeship. The model was applied to a L5 management apprenticeship delivered to an open cohort. This is a qualitative explorative study which applied thematic analysis to reflective reports completed by learners during the apprenticeship. Six themes have been identified which demonstrate how the apprenticeship generates a holistic transfer climate. The tripartite actors and known transfer variables interact at multiple stages in this system to multiply the effect of each, leading to positive transfer. The study contributes to the literature by refocusing researchers’ attention on the systems approach to transfer whilst also adding to the slow but growing knowledge supporting the impact of apprenticeships on management learning.