Improving the quality of apprenticeship systems and increasing the number of apprentices is key for the present and future well-being of the construction sector. For this reason EBC met MEP Jean Arthuis, who has launched the idea of a pilot project on the mobility of apprentices.
This initiative aims at allowing apprentices to complete their professional training with a long-term period abroad. This experimental mechanism will identify the obstacles for apprentices’ mobility thanks to the experience of the VET centres taking part in the project.
The European Commission published the call for proposals for the pilot project at the end of February. The deadline to submit proposals is 15 April 2015. The total budget is of around €2 million and the actions are expected to start in September 2016.
The call for proposals targets VET centres and companies. Employers’ organisations may also take part as associate organisations.
Today there are 28 statuses for apprenticeship in the European Union. The outcomes of the project will help compare national legislation on apprenticeship to ultimately try to reach a certain degree of harmonisation at the European level.
EBC will contribute to the dissemination of this useful pilot initiative and bring inputs from its apprenticeship experts.
Representing construction SMEs & craftsmen in Europe