Leonardo da Vinci actions - Thematic networks

Objectives and description of the action

The aims of Leonardo da Vinci Thematic Networks are to strengthen the link between the various "actors" involved in vocational training , to improve the quality, European dimension and visibility of activities or issues of common interest in the field of vocational and educational training.

In particular the Leonardo da Vinci Thematic Networks aim at:

• Assembling, distilling and building on European expertise and innovatory approaches
• Improving the analysis and anticipation of skill requirements
• Disseminating the network outputs and project results throughout the Union in the appropriate circles.

The objectives of Leonardo da Vinci Networks are:

• Projects under this action should assist cooperation between VET actors, enterprises, economic sectors, social partners and training organisations on a sectoral basis
• To identify the trends and skills requirements in this area and improve the anticipated benefit of vocational training programmes
• Publish the results of work undertaken by such transnational networks through the relevant channels so as to promote greater innovation and transnational co-operation in vocational training.

The principles for the implementation of Leonardo da Vinci Thematic Networks are:

• Carrying out a work programme on a given subject (this principle implies that the EU financial support is granted for the implementation of the work programme and related activities rather than for the existence of the network per se)
• Ensuring that the activities of the network are not confined to their contractual period only (from the outset each network should foresee a strategy to allow its activities to be continued beyond the period financed by the EU)
• The proposals should also include the provision, based on the initial results, for a widening of the network, accompanied by a plan for canvassing new potential partners.

The partnership must be multiplayer, i.e. involve a variety of players capable of contributing to the proposal’s objectives. Its members may include local authorities, chambers of commerce, trade organisations for employers and employees (social partners), companies, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and research and vocational training centres, including universities.

Inclusion of political decision-makers, such as local and regional authorities, will ensure the durability of the partnership.

This action is not designed exclusively for the establishment of new networks. Members of existing networks (in the field of VET) may wish to form new networks to work in complementary areas or to use their combined expertise in new areas.

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