VET Marketplace
This project aims to modernize vocational education and training (VET) by creating an innovative and dynamic "VET Marketplace" that bridges the gap between students, educators, and the business community. The initiative supports students with mentorship and work-based learning (WBL) opportunities, fostering real-world connections and improving employability. Engaging students in meaningful, community-driven projects aligns with the Open School concept, while also addressing the skills gap faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). By promoting collaboration between VET institutions and businesses, the project envisions long-term benefits, including enhanced learning experiences, improved industry competitiveness, and a transformative impact on the European VET sector.
Our Motivation
The project is driven by the consortium’s shared goal to modernize VET provision, making it more attractive and holistic for students. According to CEDEFOP, success in VET often hinges on robust support systems, including mentorship and workplace transition opportunities like WBL. The “VET Marketplace” addresses these needs by providing students with mentorship, networking opportunities, and direct engagement with businesses.
Why We Should Be Funded
The project uniquely combines innovation, impact, and a commitment to skills development. By addressing the skills mismatch, the VET Marketplace equips students with labor market-relevant competencies. The funding will not only support the consortium but also create a scalable operational framework to transform the VET sector across Europe.
Expected Results
1. Operational Framework for the VET Marketplace.
2. Two 10-hour microcourses on entrepreneurship and communication.
3. One online VET Marketplace.
4. Two handbooks (for trainers and employers).
5. Four mentor virtual welcoming webinars.
6. Four pilot tests of Marketplace WBL.
7. Four online training sessions on communication and entrepreneurial skills.
8. Ten orientation webinars in each country.
9. Dissemination and exploitation plan.
10. Six dissemination events.
11. Three transnational project meetings (TPMs).
Objectives
O1: Create a modern VET environment aligned with Open School principles, focusing on student-centered approaches.
O2: Enhance the employability of VET students by addressing labor market needs.
O3: Adapt VET curricula in graphic design and web development to industry demands.
O4: Strengthen collaboration between VET institutions and SMEs for mutual benefit.
O5: Empower VET trainers and employers to serve as mentors.
O6: Provide SMEs with access to specialized skills through student collaboration.
O7: Leverage digitalization to enrich VET experiences and adaptability.
Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.