Training Practitioners in Europe: Perspectives on their work, qualification and continuing learning

In the framework of European policies of lifelong learning VET teachers and trainers have become a key target group. Good quality of the services provided by teachers and trainers is regarded as an immediate contribution to fostering the quality, attractiveness and accessibility of opportunities for lifelong learning. However, little is known about the work, qualification and professional development of VET trainers, particularly at the European level. As a response, European bodies increasingly support studies and activities targeted at VET practitioners. The Network to Support Trainers in Europe constitutes one such initiative. One of the network’s activities consists of implementing a European survey with VET practitioners to getting a better understanding of their work practice, competence requirements, professional development and attitudes towards work. This research paper presents the first preliminary findings of this survey. It considers over 700 responses from 28 European countries that were collected between June and October 2008. The results are discussed against outcomes of a survey with multipliers and experts that was conducted in 2007 as part of the EUROTRAINER study. Are the work tasks of VET practitioners and the role they assume in the training process actually changing? And if so, what implications does this have for their skills and competence development? Is the training that trainers provide being evaluated? How do trainers see their opportunities for continuing professional development? These are some of the questions the survey addresses