Analysing and Comparing VET Qualifications: VET Qualifications Must Be Relevant at National and Local Levels While Opening the Door to International Comparability. Briefing Note

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.