Strengthening pathways for young people into construction careers
NSW Department of Education | Program Evaluation and Cost-Benefit Analysis | NSW, Australia | 2022 and 2025
Independent evaluation of the Productivity Bootcamp Program
Theory of change applied to assess program outcomes
Cost-benefit analysis completed to assess value for money
Evidence to inform youth workforce policy and future program delivery
The Challenge
The NSW Department of Education engaged Sparrowly Group to evaluate the Productivity Bootcamp Program (PBC), an eight-week initiative designed to help young people transition into construction and trade-related industries. We were engaged to evaluate PBC in both 2022 and 2025 where we were able to assess and review on previous recommendations impact.
Key challenges included
Measuring employment and training outcomes for young participants
Assessing long-term workforce benefits and social impacts and alignment to initial recommendations
Understanding systemic barriers affecting youth workforce entry
Aligning findings with future policy and workforce development priorities
Our Approach
We delivered a comprehensive evaluation to build on the initial evaluation and assess program effectiveness, value for money and long-term workforce outcomes.
Our methodology included
Refinement of the theory of change to evaluate objectives and outcomes
Cost-benefit analysis to assess program value and impact
Analysis of administrative and employment outcome data
Stakeholder engagement with government, employers, schools and program partners
Development of recommendations across strategy, design, governance and measurement
Outcomes and Impact
Key Outcomes
Identification of systemic challenges affecting youth workforce entry
Evidence of improved employment outcomes and VET attainment pathways
Recommendations to strengthen program design and governance
Findings informing policy development and future program rounds
Economic and Social Impact
Increased pathways into vocational education and construction careers
Reduced youth unemployment and improved workforce readiness
Evidence supporting improved youth engagement and training pathways
Strengthened policy direction for youth workforce participation
