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Gathering evidence on what works best is key to designing holistic guidance services for individuals and the labour market. Traditional learning and career pathways are being replaced by more dynamic, 'patchier' routes and shorter job tenures. Fast-changing and more complex learning and working contexts draw more attention to continuous learning and individual mobility, making lifelong guidance pivotal. It improves people's access to career information, helps them assess it, and enables them to develop diverse skills throughout their careers.

This publication was prepared as part of the Cedefop project The shift to learning outcomes: rhetoric or reality. The purpose of this research is to analyse the conceptual, structural and political factors influencing the transformation of intended learning outcomes into achieved learning outcomes. It is considered as a first step in a long-term research strategy aiming to understand better the conditions for high quality vocational education, training and learning. The research focuses on initial vocational education and training, in schools and apprenticeships, in the 27 Member States of the EU as well as Iceland and Norway. The research is divided into five separate but interlinked themes: (1) Addressing the influence of learning outcomes on pedagogical theory and tools; (2) Focusing on the influence of learning outcomes-based curricula on teaching practices (in school-based programmes); (3) Examining the influence of learning outcomes-based curricula in company training (part of apprenticeship programmes that takes place in companies); (4) Mapping and analysing the influence of learning outcomes on assessment; and (5) Developing suggestions for the way forward supporting stakeholders and policy-makers in addressing future challenges and opportunities in this area. This report examines how the learning outcomes approach is embedded in and promoted by theories of teaching and learning (epistemology, didactics, pedagogy). It aims to analyse selected theories and the way these are presented to teacher training institutions in selected regions/countries. This allows for a better understanding of the explicit and implicit assumptions made regarding the role and relevance of learning outcomes. Results of the research illustrate differences across countries in whether and how the learning outcomes approach is embedded in theories underpinning VET teacher training programmes.

Microcredentials hold promise for connecting people's skillsets with labour market demand in a rapidly changing world of work. They have proliferated in recent years across economic sectors and education levels, reinforcing European and national efforts to understand and develop them better. They can increase the provision of labour-market-relevant vocational education and training (VET), supporting national, regional and sectoral upskilling and reskilling strategies, offering learners targeted training for better employment prospects, and helping employers improve employee retention and productivity. They support the modularisation of qualifications and the validation of prior learning, enabling the inclusion of the most vulnerable and lifelong learning at all levels.

This synthesis report is based on a survey carried out during 2022 with Cedefop's reporting network ReferNet. It makes an important contribution to understanding the magnitude of early leaving from VET (ELVET) in those European countries where relevant data are available, and the mechanisms and support measures countries employ to measure and monitor the phenomenon at national and regional levels. The report puts special focus on the main factors leading to early leaving from initial VET as reported by EU Member States, Norway and Iceland. It details the support measures teachers, trainers, school principals and companies providing work-based learning received to overcome the challenges society faced due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. This research is part of Cedefop's pioneering work within the VET for youth team to support policy-makers and VET practitioners tackling early leaving from VET in Europe. For more than a decade, Cedefop has led research, promoted peer learning through its policy learning fora, and developed and managed online toolkits to benefit learners at risk of dropping out, early leavers from VET and young NEETs. The VET toolkit for tackling early leaving and the VET toolkit for empowering NEETs offer a platform of intervention approaches, good practices and interactive tools designed for both policy-makers and VET teachers and trainers. The community of ambassadors tackling early leaving from VET, created and coordinated by Cedefop since 2017, plays a vital role in enriching and disseminating the toolkit resources. The findings of this survey feed into Cedefop's project on Tackling early leaving from VET. It aims to support EU Member States and the European Commission in the implementation of the Council recommendation on pathways to school success (Council of the European Union, 2022) and the achievement of Education and training 2030 strategic target to lower the rates of early leaving from education and training (Council of the European Union, 2021).

This report summarises the outcomes of the first (micro) phase of the thematic country review (TCR) on upskilling pathways in Italy. It reflects the perspectives of both the beneficiaries of the approaches considered and the actors involved in their implementation. The TCR focuses on outreach, guidance, tailored learning and on the crosscutting dimension of governance in relation to these three areas. Cedefop's work on the "Thematic country reviews (TCRs) on upskilling pathways" aims at supporting Member States in the development of systematic, coordinated and coherent approaches to upskilling pathways for low-skilled adults. The aim is to undertake in-depth reviews of countries' national approaches to the implementation of the Upskilling pathways Recommendation, with the support of key national stakeholders. In 2021, Italy and France were the first two countries to undertake this TCR exercise; implementation is expected to last until the end of 2023.

This study compares the way IVET and CVET sub-systems interact to support the learning of adults, and thus facilitate lifelong and life-wide learning. By comparing the interaction between IVET and CVET sub-systems in the countries covered, the study analyses the extent to which IVET systems are opening up to adults, and questions whether national and regional policies and practices support or prevent a closer link between CVET and IVET. The study builds on concrete national case-studies, allowing for an in-depth, qualitative comparison and analysis of practices and policies. This allows for a better understanding of obstacles and opportunities in this complex area, directly supporting the stakeholders and policy-makers responsible for taking lifelong and life-wide learning in Europe forward. [The research was carried out by a consortium led by 3s Unternehmungsberatung GmbH (Austria). The consortium includes Ockham IPS (the Netherlands) and the Fondazione Giacomo Brodolino (Italy). The German Federal Institute of Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) supported the project as sub-contractor. For "The Future of Vocational Education and Training in Europe. Volume 3. The Influence of Assessments on Vocational Learning. Cedefop Research Paper. No. 90," see ED626202.]

This report presents a holistic approach to understanding and comparing vocational education and training (VET) systems. The approach has been developed jointly by a group of interdisciplinary VET researchers over a 5-year period as part of Cedefop's research on the future of VET and has been reviewed several times. The framework introduces 50 dimensions for analysing VET systems, as well as parts of them, structured according to three overlapping main perspectives: epistemological and pedagogical, education system, and socioeconomic or labour market. The framework is particularly suited to 'clearing the ground' for policy work and provides a model for how research can support policy. This model can be flexibly adapted and applied in any comparative research or international policy learning activity related to VET. [The research was carried out by a consortium led by 3s Unternehmungsberatung (Austria). The consortium includes Ockham IPS (the Netherlands) and the Fondazione Giacomo Brodolino (Italy). The German Federal Institute of Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) supports the project as sub-contractor. For "The Changing Nature and Role of Vocational Education and Training in Europe. Volume 1: Conceptions of Vocational Education and Training--An Analytical Framework. Cedefop Research Paper. No 63," see ED586251.]

This study examines the emerging relationship between microcredentials and qualification systems. Information gathered through an online survey among European VET providers, national authorities, employee and employer organisations was complemented by in-depth country case studies and interviews with Cedefop's ReferNet network. Questions of whether and how microcredentials should be related to established qualification systems are at an early stage of consideration in most countries; the focus is on better defining and standardising their role within national qualifications systems. Existing trends towards modularisation and the recognition of prior learning provide potential avenues for realising the benefits of microcredentials in terms of flexibility and responsiveness, while also ensuring their quality for learners and employers. There is still significant debate over how to deal with microcredentials, and how to avoid potential negative effects, such as encouraging a shift away from holistic education towards short-duration learning based around reduced skill sets. Microcredentials are a complex phenomenon, particularly with regard to their relationship to qualifications. In recent years, there has been an acceleration in the availability and use of microcredentials in the labour market, raising questions about their relationship to VET and to qualification systems. The proliferation of microcredentials of different types across various sectors, occupations, education sectors and levels and countries, along with variations between countries in the nature of qualification systems -- which are undergoing change -- make this a complex landscape to research and analyse. To date there has been a lack of data at EU level informing decision-making in this area. This report aims to be a first step towards filling some key gaps in the knowledge around these topics, addressing three main research questions.

This report summarises the outcomes of the first (micro) phase of the thematic country reviews (TCRs) on upskilling pathways in France, which reflect the points of view of both the beneficiaries of the outreach and guidance schemes and services under investigation, and the professionals involved in their implementation. The TCR on upskilling pathways for France highlights outreach and guidance for low-skilled adults, and the crosscutting dimensions of governance and financial and non-financial support in relation to the two areas of focus. Cedefop's work on the thematic country reviews on upskilling pathways aims at supporting Member States in the development of systematic, coordinated and coherent approaches to upskilling pathways for low-skilled adults. The aim is to undertake in-depth reviews of countries' national approaches to the implementation of the upskilling pathways Recommendation, with the support of key national stakeholders. France and Italy were the first two countries that undertook this TCR exercise in 2021; implementation is expected to last until the end of 2023. [This research paper was produced by Cedefop's Department for VET and skills.]

The Swedish government has overall responsibility for the education system and sets the policy framework at all education levels. National goals and learning outcomes are defined centrally but with decentralised implementation. Swedish vocational education and training (VET) starts after compulsory education at age 16 and includes programmes at upper secondary, postsecondary and higher levels. This spotlight presents Sweden's education and training system, including distinctive features of VET in Sweden, along with challenges and policy responses.

In the framework of European countries' cooperation on VET and lifelong learning, Cedefop monitors, analyses and reports on countries' priorities and activities. Cedefop's role in the process is pivotal: it gathers the necessary national information through its network of expertise spanning all EU Member States, Iceland and Norway, ReferNet, and analyses it in a structured, comparable way to inform the European Commission and other stakeholders. This briefing note presents examples based on the EU Member States' national implementation plans (NIPs) that reflect the priorities of the Council Recommendation on VET for sustainable competitiveness, social fairness and resilience, and the Osnabrück Declaration.

In a context of crisis and accelerating megatrends, Cedefop has continued to focus attention on the vocational education and training (VET), skills and employment dimensions of the twin transition. Its work helped assess the implications of current challenges for VET systems and qualifications and stimulated reflection on how policies contribute to making people fit for the future. In the run-up to the European Year of Skills and throughout, Cedefop activities have contributed, and will continue to contribute transversally, to making learning via up- and reskilling the new normal. Skills are central to tackling challenges and shaping successful transitions. This report presents Cedefop 2022-23 activities to help kickstart the European Year of Skills. In a context of crisis and accelerating megatrends, the Agency continues to focus attention on the VET, skills and employment dimensions of the twin transitions.

This synthesis report, based on a survey carried out during 2022 with Cedefop's reporting network ReferNet, aims to provide a better understanding of the phenomenon of early leaving from vocational education and training (ELVET). Such understanding is a necessary precondition for designing effective responses to help individuals to equip themselves with the appropriate skills to cope with future transformations and to thrive in life. The report has special focus on the mechanisms and support measures countries employ to measure and monitor the phenomenon at national and regional levels; the main factors leading to ELVET as reported by EU Member States, Norway and Iceland; and the support measures teachers, trainers, school principals and companies providing work-based learning received to overcome the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and the war of aggression against Ukraine. These challenges included carrying out distance learning during school and company closures and supporting Ukrainian refugees to integrate into the national VET systems of the host countries. It is anticipated that findings will inspire policy-makers to take actions to allow every single young student to celebrate successful learning and life pathways.

This report describes how entrepreneurship competence is embedded in vocational education and training (VET) in Finland. It complements existing knowledge with examples of methods, tools and approaches that can help policy-makers, VET providers and other stakeholders build better entrepreneurial learning ecosystems. The report is based on the research of the Cedefop study "Entrepreneurship competence in VET." It is part of a series of eight national case studies (Spain, France, Croatia, Italy, Latvia, Austria, Sweden and Finland) and a final report. [Dmitrijs Kulšs was responsible for the publication and research conducted under the project. Fondazione Giacomo Brodolini Srl SB (FGB) was contracted for research and services.]

This report describes how entrepreneurship competence is embedded in vocational education and training (VET) in Croatia. It complements existing knowledge with examples of methods, tools and approaches that can help policy-makers, VET providers and other stakeholders build better entrepreneurial learning ecosystems. The report is based on the research of the Cedefop study "Entrepreneurship competence in VET." It is part of a series of eight national case studies (Spain, France, Croatia, Italy, Latvia, Austria, Sweden and Finland) and a final report. [Dmitrijs Kulšs was responsible for the publication and research conducted under the project. Fondazione Giacomo Brodolini Srl SB (FGB) was contracted for research and services.]

This report describes how entrepreneurship competence is embedded in vocational education and training (VET) in Sweden. It complements existing knowledge with examples of methods, tools and approaches that can help policy-makers, VET providers and other stakeholders build better entrepreneurial learning ecosystems. The report is based on the research of Cedefop's study "Entrepreneurship competence in VET." It is part of a series of eight national case studies (Spain, France, Croatia, Italy, Latvia, Austria, Sweden and Finland) and a final report. [Dmitrijs Kulšs was responsible for the publication and research conducted under the project. Fondazione Giacomo Brodolini Srl SB (FGB) was contracted for research and services.]

This report describes how entrepreneurship competence is embedded in vocational education and training (VET) in Europe. It complements existing knowledge with examples of methods, tools and approaches that can help policy makers, VET providers and other stakeholders build better entrepreneurial learning ecosystems. The report is based on the research of Cedefop's study "Entrepreneurship competence in VET" and eight national case studies covering Spain, France, Croatia, Italy, Latvia, Austria, Finland and Sweden. [Dmitrijs Kulšs was responsible for the publication and research conducted under the project. Fondazione Giacomo Brodolini Srl SB (FGB) was contracted for research and services.]

This report describes how entrepreneurship competence is embedded in vocational education and training (VET) in Austria. It complements existing knowledge with examples of methods, tools and approaches that can help policy-makers, VET providers and other stakeholders build better entrepreneurial learning ecosystems. The report is based on the research of Cedefop's study "Entrepreneurship competence in VET." It is part of a series of eight national case studies (Spain, France, Croatia, Italy, Latvia, Austria, Sweden and Finland) and a final report. [Dmitrijs Kulšs was responsible for the publication and research conducted under the project. Fondazione Giacomo Brodolini Srl SB (FGB) was contracted for research and services.]

Microcredentials are not new. They have been in use in various countries and education and training sectors; they have played a role, among others, in the certification of IT courses or health workers' professional development. However, only recently have microcredentials gained EU-wide attention in policy debates. Most countries, as yet, have no official definition. Even the term 'microcredentials' is not well-known, with certificates for short learning formats being referred to in various ways, including 'micro certifications, 'badges', 'micro/partial/supplementary qualifications' and 'module certificates'. Despite the different terms, European countries certify many short learning activities in ways that, either fully or partly, meet the definition proposed by the European Commission. These developments reflect that the character, format and purpose of microcredentials are changing. To support the Commission's consultation exercise, Cedefop carried out a comprehensive study on microcredentials, which looked at their characteristics, how they are designed, delivered and recognised, why they are in demand, how they are being used, and what their advantages and limitations are. Cedefop's findings also fed into the working document that accompanied the proposed Council Recommendation. This briefing note outlines the study's interim results.

Young people not in employment, education or training (NEETs) are absent both from the labour market and the education sector, thus facing a high risk of professional, digital and social exclusion. Analyses of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic show that, in spite of EU countries' bold response to this crisis protecting jobs, businesses and livelihoods, yet again, young people were hardest hit by its effects. This is why young NEETs have continued to be a top policy priority at national and EU levels. The concept of NEETs as an individual risk group (e.g. compared to early leavers from education or long-term unemployed adults) emerged in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, which had a devastating effect on young people's employment in the EU. This report looks at Cedefop's work on vocational education and training (VET) in supporting the social inclusion of young NEETs.

Demographic trends and technological change increase the need for adults to learn and adapt to changing job content and working conditions. Despite this, most EU Member States have consistently underperformed in their efforts to reach targets for adult participation in lifelong learning. In 2010, the EU set a target of 15% of adults participating in lifelong learning by 2020. Only a handful of Member States met the target; the EU average in 2019 was 11.8%. It fell to 9.2% in 2020, mostly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To understand these numbers more fully, Cedefop launched a pan-European opinion survey on adult learning and continuing vocational education and training (CVET) in 2019. The findings, which are presented in this briefing note, show that adults of all ages and across all occupations and qualifications recognise the need for new skills. This need, however, seems insufficient to motivate adults to participate in learning and CVET at the desired levels. Raising adult participation may require new, more learner-centric, policy approaches.

This report describes how entrepreneurship competence is embedded in vocational education and training (VET) in Italy. It complements existing knowledge with examples of methods, tools and approaches that can help policy-makers, VET providers and other stakeholders build better entrepreneurial learning ecosystems. The report is based on the pilot research of Cedefop's study "Entrepreneurship competence in VET." It is part of a series of eight national case studies (Spain, France, Croatia, Italy, Latvia, Austria, Sweden and Finland) and the forthcoming final report.

Building on the findings of Cedefop/ReferNet thematic perspectives for EU Member States, Norway and Iceland, this synthesis report identifies recent trends and policy developments in Europe on the initial and continuous professional development of VET teachers and trainers. The report points to the different types of VET teachers and trainers in Europe; their evolving and complex role in mastering new technologies, supporting the integration of refugees, identifying and supporting learners at risk of early leaving, and understanding changing labour market needs, to empower and equip students with skills for the future. Their qualifications and opportunities for continuous professional development vary across countries but the challenges policy-makers face in supporting them are shared. The report concludes with key messages for designing effective policies in Europe. [This research paper was produced by Cedefop's Department for VET and skills.]

This study examines the role of microcredentials in supporting learning for employment. The study collected information through an online survey among mostly European VET providers, national authorities, employee and employer organisations, in-depth country case studies and interviews, as well as Cedefop's ReferNet network. While the topic has gained in importance in the context of higher education, focusing on vocational education and training does justice to the complexity of microcredentials in education, training and learning for the European labour market. Results show that microcredentials have only recently become prominent in Europe-wide policy-level debates, despite the existence for many decades of short courses and credentials that support labour-market-related education and training. Although there is uncertainty linked to the naming and function of microcredentials, clear benefits with regards to their flexibility and responsiveness to labour market needs can be observed. The current report focuses on and explores the take-up, characteristics and functions of microcredentials in European labour-market-related education, training and learning. The mapping exercise helps to identify the main characteristics of microcredentials as currently emerging in the context of VET and reskilling and upskilling initiatives.

This report was prepared in the course of the Cedefop project "The future of vocational education and training in Europe." The main objective of this study is to map and analyse the dominant assessment forms applied in IVET and how these have evolved during the past 25 years. There is a particular focus on exploring the extent to which the objectives set by qualifications, programmes and curricula in terms of content and profile are improved or contradicted by assessment, as well as the extent to which a broadening of the skills and competence base of IVET could influence assessments (responding to increased emphasis on general subjects and greater focus on transversal skills and competences). The study explores to what extent assessment specifications and standards are used to support summative assessments and whether these are aligned with qualifications and programme standards. [For "The Future of Vocational Education and Training in Europe. Volume 1. The Changing Content and Profile of VET: Epistemological Challenges and Opportunities. Cedefop Research Paper. No. 83," see ED622472. For "The Future of Vocational Education and Training in Europe. Volume 2. Delivering IVET: Institutional Diversification and/or Expansion? Cedefop Research Paper. No. 84," see ED626195.]

This study examines the way in which institutional arrangements for the delivery of IVET have changed in response to shifts in skills demand. Although these arrangements vary across countries, it is possible to identify common trends over time, such as institutional hybridisation, the blurring of boundaries between IVET and general education. Despite this development, IVET has been able to retain a distinct identity, which is attractive to learners and has the support of key labour market actors. This reflects IVET's adaptability and resilience in the face of change. Building on a Europe-wide survey of VET providers and in-depth national case studies, the study delivers a timely update of, and insight into, the continually changing IVET landscape. Results show increasing similarities in how countries configure their IVET systems. This is evident in the broadening of IVET curricula, the prominence given to the work-based learning pathway, as well as the growing importance attached to local and regional autonomy. [For "The Future of Vocational Education and Training in Europe. Volume 1. The Changing Content and Profile of VET: Epistemological Challenges and Opportunities. Cedefop Research Paper. No. 83," see ED622472.]

This study examines changes in the way that knowledge, skills and competence are differentiated in curricula, and how learning is organised across different learning sites: in classrooms, workshops or laboratories, and at workplaces. The study collected information through Cedefop's ReferNet network, in-depth country case studies, and an online survey among almost 1 000 European VET providers. Results show that several countries have strengthened the general education component of their VET programmes either by increasing the extent of teaching general subjects or by better integrating them into the vocational curriculum. At the same time, the increased emphasis on general skills has not taken place at the expense of workplace learning; on the contrary, an expansion of workplace learning in IVET curricula has been ubiquitous. However, it is becoming increasingly difficult to assess the exact extent of workplace learning, due to increased flexibility allowed at provider and individual level in the combination of different learning environments. [This research paper was produced by Cedefop's Department of VET and Qualifications.]

This report describes how entrepreneurship competence is embedded in vocational education and training (VET) in Latvia. It complements existing knowledge with examples of methods, tools and approaches that can help policy-makers, VET providers and other stakeholders build better entrepreneurial learning ecosystems. The report is based on the pilot research of the Cedefop study "Entrepreneurship Competence in VET." It is part of a series of eight national case studies (Spain, France, Croatia, Italy, Latvia, Austria, Finland and Sweden) and a forthcoming final report.

To know which skills are required at which levels, in which areas, for whom, and how, is crucial. For this purpose, Cedefop has been stepping up its skills intelligence work. A high-level virtual conference in 2021, followed by a series of thematic workshops, kick-started Cedefop's next generation skills intelligence activities. It provided new insights into skills intelligence in the context of megatrends -- digital, green, demography and others -- and showed how to maximise its potential for policy. Engaging stakeholders, prior to and throughout the events, helped to identify gaps and obstacles for strengthening skills intelligence. Discussions focused on priority areas in the pursuit of making next-generation skills intelligence more contextualised, timelier and more relevant to sectors, businesses and people.

COVID-19 and social distancing have crashed into the structural shifts brought about by the fourth industrial revolution. And while meeting skill needs has been on employers' and policy-makers' agendas for long, investing in people in a more comprehensive way is becoming more urgent: as European economies are picking up speed, the hunt for talent is open. As the world looks for a transition to a post-pandemic reality, changes are underway in many European companies. This briefing note looks at how these changes will shape work organisation, the relationship between employers and workers, and companies' working and learning arrangements.

Pressure on European education and training systems has increased in recent years, with technological and demographic trends reshaping demand for skills and qualifications and making lifelong learning a necessity, for both individuals and countries. Vocational education and training (VET) provision has to respond to rapidly changing labour market needs and to match qualification supply to skills demand. Improving its quality, relevance and agility is, therefore, at the heart of the European VET policy framework 2021-25, which emphasises the importance of international cooperation, learner and worker mobility and recognition of learning outcomes. To support the implementation of policies strengthening cross-country transparency and comparability of qualifications, Cedefop has conducted a study into methods for analysing and comparing the profile and content of VET qualifications; these still largely differ between European countries. This briefing note outlines the two main objectives addressed: (1) Better comparison of VET qualifications; and (2) Better feedback between work and VET. This report also outlines the solutions identified and their implications for researchers and policy-makers.

Following the financial crisis and the ensuing economic downturn in the past decade, apprenticeship sparked renewed interest among policy-makers both in Brussels and the EU Member States. Since, European and national crisis management strategies have advocated apprenticeship both as a short-term solution to youth unemployment and a useful response to companies' skill needs in the longer term. However, after the initial years of policy implementation and financial investment to increase apprenticeship numbers, social partners and experts have been raising grievances: not all schemes called 'apprenticeships' merited their name, not all ensured high-quality training (or any training), and not all 'apprentices' were entitled to employment or social protection rights. To help promote a common European understanding, Cedefop has identified the basic features a work-based education and training scheme should have to be called 'apprenticeship'. It suggests countries agree on a common denominator made up of the following features: (1) the scheme is backed by a legal framework; (2) it leads to a formal and portable qualification; (3) it relies on a structured alternation between work-based and school-based learning; (4) it implies a commitment for a minimum duration that makes the training alternation meaningful; (5) company and learner sign a specific type of contract; and (6) the learner receives a remuneration. Europe does not -- and should not -- have a single model of apprenticeship. Similarly, no model can simply be copied: the conditions enabling quality apprenticeships differ from country to country. Cedefop is widening and deepening its understanding of these conditions in their respective settings, to help step up transfer and adjustment of best practices in the future.

Work-based learning (WBL) has risen rapidly in the policy agenda over recent years in the European Union. Efforts to strengthen WBL, particularly in vocational education and training (VET), are increasingly common throughout European countries. This report analyses the 2016 EU labour force survey (EU-LFS) ad hoc module, which covers the topic of young people on the labour market. The report focuses on WBL in formal initial education and training. It aims to provide EU-wide updated statistical evidence addressing key aspects: how many young graduates experienced work-based learning as part of their highest education attained, particularly in VET and in tertiary education; who they are; and how well they do on the labour market, in comparison with their counterparts who have not participated in WBL.

This short description contributes to better understanding of vocational education and training (VET) in Portugal, by providing insight into its distinctive features and highlighting system developments and current challenges. VET in Portugal offers a wide range of programmes, flexible in type and duration. Promoting equal opportunities and supporting the integration of vulnerable groups are main features of the system. Some 40% of learners in secondary education undertake a VET programme. The national qualifications system has reorganised VET into a single system in which programmes lead to a double certification. VET for adults is an integral part of the national qualification system, having education and training programmes for adults and recognition and validation of prior learning as key elements. Responding to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Portugal has increased its focus on revitalising adult learning by supporting both the up- and reskilling of adults and the transition towards a digital economy.

Concise, clear and comprehensive snapshots of vocational education and training systems in EU, Iceland and Norway: this is what the Cedefop Spotlight on VET series offers. Building on individual country Spotlights, this publication provides an overview of VET systems with their distinctive qualities, such as main accession and progression routes for learners; types and levels of qualifications they lead to; types of programmes, delivery modes, work-based learning ratio and duration. In addition to the system charts, it also briefly reflects on current challenges and recent VET policy initiatives. [The country sections in this report were prepared by: Silke Gadji, Nikolaos Georgiadis, Dmitrijs Kulss, Jelena Letica, Vicky Oraiopoulou, and Iraklis Pliakis, and members of Cedefop's VET policies and systems team coordinated by George Kostakis.]

The current vocational education and training (VET) system in Portugal is the result of a 2007 large-scale reform, which reorganised VET into a single system (Sistema Nacional de Qualificações, SNQ). The main objectives of the SNQ are to ensure that VET qualifications better match labour market needs, promoting the competitiveness of enterprises, and to reinforce the recognition, validation and certification of competences (RVCC). It also aims to guarantee scholarly and professional progression of citizens in 43 sectoral areas of education and training. Key principles of VET provision are the wide range of programmes accessible to young people and adults, the link between VET provision and labour market needs, and flexibility in type and duration of programmes for adults. In the current economic context, where the socioeconomic effects of the pandemic crisis are apparent, VET should be a crucial tool in fostering employability, social inclusion and the development of the economy.

Based on a survey comprising more than 40 000 interviews of people aged over 25 in the European Union, Iceland and Norway, this second volume of adults' perceptions about adult learning and continuing vocational education and training (CVET) examines the views of different groups in the European adult working population. It shows that adults strongly support adult learning and CVET and have a firm belief in the benefits they bring. However, participation in adult learning and CVET is not determined so much by the positive image and attractiveness, but by the unique circumstances that individuals face in their working lives. To help people better, aspects of vocational education and training policy need a rethink. [For Volume 1 of the series, "Perceptions on Adult Learning and Continuing Vocational Education and Training in Europe. Volume 1: Second Opinion Survey. Member States. Cedefop Reference Series. No 117, see ED610606.]

This short description contributes to better understanding of vocational education and training (VET) in Slovenia. It provides insights into its main features and highlights system developments and current challenges. Slovenia has a strong VET tradition; participation at upper secondary level is the highest in the EU. The VET system in Slovenia is attractive, flexible and offers a variety of learning modes and progression opportunities for learners; the share of early leavers is kept low. The importance of raising adult skills levels is growing, as is the need to focus on strengthening digital skills and broadening opportunities for upskilling and reskilling. Slovenia is responding to challenges, including those posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on modernising vocational education. Its basic goal is adapting education to the digital and sustainable transition and increasing the resilience of the education system.

Formal vocational education and training (VET) in Slovenia starts at upper secondary level and is provided mainly by public schools that are founded and financed by the State. The education and labour ministries share responsibility for preparing legislation, financing, and adopting VET programmes and qualifications. While the education ministry governs VET at upper secondary and tertiary levels, the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for VET (CPI) is responsible for research and development; it monitors and guides the development of VET and provides in-service teacher training and VET curricula. The CPI also acts as a link between ministries, schools and social partners. This spotlight presents Slovenia's education and training system, including distinctive features of VET in Slovenia, along with challenges and policy responses.

The feedback between vocational education and training (VET) and the labour market can provide important input for the review and renewal of qualifications. A feedback loop that is based on learning outcomes helps provide deeper insights into what is required on the labour market, what is offered in training provisions and assessed at the end of a learning programme. The aim of this study is to contribute to strengthening the quality and relevance of qualifications and completing the feedback loop between education and the labour market. It examines methods of collecting data on the match/mismatch between qualifications and labour market requirements, including analysis of how achieved learning outcomes are applied and perceived in the labour market (for example methods of collecting the experience of employers with holders of these qualifications). This report addresses the following two questions: (1) which data already exist in the countries, providing insight into the relevance of qualifications to employees, employers and other labour market stakeholders?; and (2) how can survey methodology be designed to systematically capture the experiences and appreciations of employers as regards the content and profile of qualifications? To what extent, based on limited testing, can scalability of the methodology be achieved?

2020 will be remembered as a watershed year. The pandemic's impact has moved Europe's vocational education and training (VET) and skills policy centre stage. The new EU policy in the making was designed to unleash VET's full potential and make it better suited to shape and manage the digital and green transitions to a fair economy and society; it will also help boost the recovery from COVID-19 at the same time. This Briefing Note highlights Cedefop's efforts in 2020-21 to support vocational education and training, skills and qualification policies from concept to implementation.

Qualifications frameworks are tools for describing qualifications of an education or training system by classifying them into levels. Each level provides a clear description of what the holder of a qualification knows, understands and is able to do. They are important tools for making qualifications transparent and comprehensible, within and across borders, and for promoting lifelong learning. This fifth edition of the "Global Inventory of National and Regional Qualifications Frameworks" consists of two volumes with up-to-date information on recent developments in this field destined for policy-makers, educators, researchers, and experts. This volume, Volume II, compiles case studies from countries across four world regions to record progress in the development and implementation of National and Regional Qualifications Frameworks globally. A cross-country analysis of national case studies is presented, examining the objectives, functions and characteristics of national qualifications frameworks and their contributions to wider educational and training systems.

Qualifications frameworks are tools for describing qualifications of an education or training system by classifying them into levels. Each level provides a clear description of what the holder of a qualification knows, understands and is able to do. They are important tools for making qualifications transparent and comprehensible, within and across borders, and for promoting lifelong learning. This fifth edition of the "Global Inventory of National and Regional Qualifications Frameworks" consists of two volumes with up-to-date information, collected in 2020-21, on recent developments in this field destined for policy-makers, educators, researchers, and experts. This volume, Volume I, features a series of thematic chapters that identify emerging issues in qualifications systems, including the digitalization of qualifications systems, the validation of informal and non-formal learning and the increased use of microcredentials. A cross-country analysis of national case studies is presented, examining the objectives, functions and characteristics of national qualifications frameworks and their contributions to wider educational and training systems.

This briefing note provides insights from a pan-European opinion survey conducted by Cedefop. This survey explores what adults living in the European Union (EU), Iceland and Norway think about adult learning and continuing vocational education and training (CVET), given that image and perceptions influence action. The survey defines adult learning and CVET as any learning activities undertaken by adults (employed or not) with the intention of improving their knowledge or skills. The questionnaire asked about the value of adult learning and CVET in producing desired outcomes and benefits for individuals (such as personal, skill and career development and personal financial situation), society and the economy (such as lower unemployment) and for countries (such as social cohesion). The positive image of CVET emerging from the survey gives policy-makers a strong basis for strengthening adult learning and CVET and establishing them as a standard path accessible to all adults. Building on the answers, survey findings construct the image people have of adult learning and CVET. The findings are in two volumes. The first, "Perceptions on adult learning and continuing vocational education and training in Europe," looks at individual countries. The second volume looks at different demographic and socioeconomic groups across all participating countries and will be published in 2021. [For "Perceptions on Adult Learning and Continuing Vocational Education and Training in Europe. Volume 1: Second Opinion Survey. Member States," see ED610606.]

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has highlighted the vast opportunities of working and learning digitally. In these exceptional times, where a large part of the workforce has been obliged to work remotely due to home confinement and social distancing measures, gig or crowd-workers have enjoyed a kind of 'home field' advantage: working and interacting digitally has always been their prevailing mode of operation. What can we learn from these online workers who mastered the art of working and learning remotely long before the public health crisis?

Apprenticeships for adults are one of the policy solutions to the need for supporting adults willing to train, while broadening the skills base of the working population across Europe. According to Cedefop estimates, there are around 128 million adults with potential for upskilling or reskilling in the European Union (EU). EU Member States have decided to open apprenticeships to adults by removing age limits and by making them more flexible. All EU Member States have begun taking steps in this direction and adult participation in apprenticeships is clearly on the rise. This does not imply new types of apprenticeship or radically new concepts. It is rather about policies and initiatives facilitating adult participation in apprenticeship, including promoting more flexible learning options considering their life situations and learning needs.