Page 40 - european-lifelong-guidance-policies-progress-report

Section 3: EU Policy Developments

3.3 Vocational education and training The publication of a policy handbook on work-
(VET) based learning (WBL) is foreseen for 2014, identify-
ing successful models of work-based learning.
3.3.1 Key developments
Learning mobility
In the light of the strategic objectives of the Bruges
Communiqué, action has mainly been focused on: A benchmark for increasing learning mobility in
initial vocational education and training (I-VET)
• Attractiveness of VET. was adopted by the Education Council on 28–29
• Learning mobility. November 2011. By 2020 an EU average of at least
• Co-operation with the business sector. 6% of 18–34-year-olds with an initial VET qualifica-
• Developing a common language bridging the tion should have had a VET-related study or training
world of education/training and the world of period (including work placements) abroad, lasting
work. a minimum of two weeks (or less if documented by
• Implementation of common EU tools. Europass).
• Modernisation of the Professional Qualifica- The Council conclusions on this benchmark note
tions Directive. the contribution of learning mobility to enhanc-
• Validation of informal/non-formal learning. ing the employability of young people through the
acquisition of key skills and competences. In order
Attractiveness of VET to ensure quality in learning mobility, member-states
are encouraged to use relevant tools, such as Euro-
The results of a Eurobarometer survey on attitudes pass and the ECVET and EQAVET systems.
towards VET in the EU were published in September
2011. The survey covers issues related to quality of Co-operation with the business sector
VET provision, teachers and trainers, labour market
relevance, permeability, entrepreneurship, status of A dedicated Business-VET Forum is to be organised Policy
vocational professions, guidance, career choices, and by the Commission every two years, as a platform
factors and reasons for choosing VET, as well as out- for exchange between the VET sector, businesses
comes of VET for individuals and society. Although and policy-makers on a range of topics related to
VET had a positive image in some cases, linked to excellence, attractiveness, relevance and partnership
quality and strong employment prospects, 41% of between VET and employers. The first Forum took
respondents aged 15–24 stated that they would rec- place on 7–8 June 2012.
ommend general secondary or higher education as The Europe 2020 flagship initiative Youth on the
a preferable choice for young people, compared to Move proposes that a quality framework for train-
27% who would recommend vocational education eeships should be developed by the Commission.
and training. Less half of all respondents aged 25–39 This joint project between the Commission’s Educa-
and 40–54 agreed that young people receive enough tion (EAC) and Employment (EMPL) Directorates is
career guidance. planned for the second half of 2012.
The Commission will issue a staff working docu- A VET campaign on traineeships is being launched
ment on the role of vocational excellence for smart in 2012 to encourage enterprises to offer European
and sustainable growth in June/July 2012. traineeships.

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