European VET transition patterns
The primary objective of European VET transition patterns (WP3) is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the educational trajectories of youth cohorts before and after the COVID-19 pandemic across five European countries: Denmark, Spain, Croatia, Scotland, and Estonia. By leveraging national register data and long-standing largescale EU survey microdata (EU-SILC and EU-LFS) spanning from 2010 to 2024, we aim to identify and understand the differences in vocational education and training (VET) transition patterns within these diverse contexts.
Our research will focus on examining the register data of total student cohorts and large-scale surveys, specifically targeting students who transitioned to upper secondary school between 2010 and 2024. This extensive data set will allow us to uncover trends, challenges, and opportunities within the VET sector, providing valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and stakeholders.
By comparing the educational trajectories of pre- and post-pandemic youth cohorts, we seek to identify the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on VET transitions. This analysis will shed light on the resilience and adaptability of VET systems in the face of unprecedented disruptions, as well as highlight areas that require further support and intervention.
Moreover, WP3 will explore the variations in VET transition patterns across different European countries, taking into account their unique regional and local contexts. By understanding the commonalities and differences in these patterns, we can identify best practices, potential gaps, and opportunities for improvement in VET policies and strategies.
The findings from WP3 will directly inform the work carried out in other work packages. The insights gained from this analysis will contribute to the development of evidencebased recommendations for future VET policies and practices, ensuring that they are tailored to the specific needs of each country and their youth populations.
Through this comprehensive approach, WP3 aims to provide a solid foundation for understanding the current state of VET transitions in Europe and identifying the most effective strategies for promoting equity, inclusion, and success in vocational education and training. By empowering policymakers, educators, and stakeholders with actionable insights, we strive to create a more resilient, adaptable, and inclusive VET ecosystem that can better support the diverse needs of learners and contribute to the overall wellbeing of our communities and societies.