I don't know how the current training manuals/programs handle things, but one aspect that I feel should always be covered is why it is necessary to do something, or not to do something.
It's easy to say "Exposed metalwork needs to be earthed for safety," for example, but I always feel that a proper education should go into the details of why it needs to be done, what could happen if it isn't done, and so forth.
I guess what I'm trying to say is that the rules and procedures to follow should be backed up with a solid understanding of the basic therories and principles involved. An apprentice who jusy blindly follows the set routines without really understanding why he is doing something doesn't have a thorough knowledge of the subject.
