This study explores the determinants affecting the efficacy of modern apprenticeship programmes within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the finance and commerce sectors of Zhejiang Province, China. Adopting a mixed-methods design, the research comprised a survey of 238 enterprise managers and educators associated with five higher vocational institutions, resulting in 214 valid responses. Additionally, ten enterprise mentors, nominated by Jiaxing Vocational and Technical College, engaged in semi-structured interviews. The findings highlight the critical roles of both internal and external collaboration, industry associations, institutional backing, and parental engagement in fostering the effectiveness of the modern apprenticeship framework. The study underscores the necessity for active participation from governmental bodies, educational institutions, industry associations, and enterprises in ensuring successful apprenticeship outcomes. Recommendations include reinforcing governmental policy support through targeted incentives, enhancing the influence of industry associations, advancing the development of enterprise mentors via specialised training programmes, and refining communication and coordination mechanisms. These measures are intended to strengthen the apprenticeship system, thereby elevating the quality of higher vocational education and aligning it more effectively with the economic requirements of local industries. © (2025), (Herald Academic Ltd and Organizational Ergonomics). All rights reserved.
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