Mimesis, learning through observation, imitation and practice, is held to be the main contributor to human endeavours. In this article, observation is proposed to be a key feature of trades learning through affording ease of entry into trade occupations’ practice communities. Observation provides apprentices with significant socio-cultural and socio-material cues to resolve initial ‘newcomer’ status. Aspects of work learnt through observation influence apprentices’ engagement with and learning of trade occupations’ inherent complexities. This article utilises narratives of apprentices’ experienced curriculum to illuminate the role of observation in learning a trade and proposes recommendations to circumvent barriers to maximising the potential of learning through observation. © 2015 The Vocational Aspect of Education Ltd.
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