The principles that underlie Probation Service policy and practice are based on 'what works' in reducing recidivism; whereas, providers of ETE services are guided by another body of knowledge pertinent to 'what works' in helping low-skilled, poorly qualified adults into employment. Although evidence-based ETE services can contribute to desistance from crime, thus enhancing the Probation Service's goal of reducing recidivism, in practice the Probation Service's cognitive behavioral programs for offenders have tended to emphasize risk, needs, and perceived 'deficits'. ETE programs, on the other hand, encourage responsibility, choice, and ownership of plans to improve skills and job prospects. In attempting to reconcile any differences in ideology and practice, there are signs that the architects of the British Government's strategy for improving skills and employment among offenders have begun to respond to these concerns. Recent policy pronouncements indicate a more flexible approach that recognizes the need to tailor employment-related support to an offender's needs. Learning is still conceived as highly work-focused, but the strategy recognizes that learning extends beyond vocational training to wider skills, such as disclosure of convictions, literacy/mathematics, and life-skills. These wider skills, however, are made relevant to the work experience. There are also signs that the need to address poor motivation and lack of incentives among unemployed offenders is being recognized. 6 notes and 65 references