The VETprep consortium met in Tallinn for a two-day research workshop and coordination meeting, bringing together partners from Estonia, Denmark, Scotland, Spain, and Croatia. The meeting was an important opportunity to examine national VET systems in depth and align methodological approaches.
During the meeting, each country team presented its national context, outlining structural features, policy measures, learner pathways, and emerging challenges.
Denmark shared that its system is built on a long tradition of craftsmanship and apprenticeships. It combines workplace training with school lessons. This dual approach still emphasizes practical skills, connecting traditional crafts with modern vocational work.
The Scottish team described a flexible and complex VET system shaped by geography and social differences. Scotland manages VET through several agencies and institutions, such as schools, colleges, and training providers. The system offers many qualifications, so learners can mix academic and practical options.
The Spanish team shared the structure of their national report, which looks at three core themes:
- Public perception and image of VET
- Transition pathways into vocational programmes
- Participation and retention
Estonia, as the host country, provided an extensive overview of its school-based VET system. Key features include:
- Strongly state-governed and standardized provision.
- Students choose general or VET after Grade 9.
- High dropout rates, particularly in the first study year
The Estonian team also discussed several policy measures, such as promoting VET, supporting student transitions, training teachers, including students with special needs, and providing financial help.
Croatia contributed an important perspective as a country with a high proportion of upper-secondary students enrolled in VET, yet facing challenges related to modernization, labour-market alignment, and youth engagement.
A framework for comparing European VET systems helped put each country’s structure in context. Looking at the systems side by side made it easier to see common challenges:
- The public image of VET
- The balance between school-based and work-based learning
- Dropout and completion patterns
- Supporting vulnerable learners
- The role of historical and cultural legacies
These findings provide a stronger basis for future policy recommendations.
The meeting confirmed the consortium’s commitment to improving vocational education through comparative research. By working together and sharing ideas, partners produced insights that will help with the next stages of VETprep’s work.