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Are you enrolled in vocational education and training? Read this!
Last updated on Tuesday, 07/09/2021
Vocational education and training can help you prepare for the global job market, giving you the skills you need for specific career paths. Have you considered doing a placement abroad to boost your career?
Vocational education and training (VET) can take different forms and routes. VET schemes tie in with the apprenticeship system – both feature a mix of practical work experience and theory.
Each year the EU promotes awareness raising about the multiple opportunities vocational education and training can offer through the European Vocational Skills Week. It aims to improve the attractiveness of vocational education and training by highlighting excellence and quality. In addition, the EU also offers opportunities to students enrolled in VET to learn abroad.
What about a traineeship abroad with Erasmus+?
If you're a student enrolled in vocational education and training (VET), you can improve your work-related skills through placements in different countries under the Erasmus+ Programme. These opportunities are also open to company-based apprentices and to recent graduates.
Traineeships may last between 2 weeks and 12 months. You will be hosted either in a workplace or in another VET institution with periods of work-based learning as part of your studies. Check inspiring stories here!
Your educational institution will receive an EU grant to cover your costs for travel and subsistence during your time abroad.
You may be able to receive money to help you learn the local working language, and for traineeships lasting over 19 days, you will access the Online Linguistic Support to help you learn the language used at your workplace or in your studies.
You cannot apply directly for a grant as an individual. Applications must be made by organisations who in turn select candidates for traineeships abroad. Contact your VET organisation to find out if these opportunities are available to you.
Greater recognition for vocational learning
If you take part in an Erasmus+ exchange programme, the placement abroad will be recognised by your sending organisation based on a Learning Agreement.
If you want your diploma or certificate recognised, there are several European initiatives to enhance the recognition and quality of skills and qualifications gained through vocational schemes.