Over the last decade, the mobility of apprentices has gained momentum at the EU level in terms of both policy and funding. The recently published proposal for a Council Recommendation ‘Europe on the Move’ – learning mobility opportunities for everyone sets out the ambitious objective of achieving 15% of VET learner mobility by 2030. This demonstrates political support to facilitate the implementation of apprentice placements abroad. 

Mobility benefits apprentices and employers, but challenges remain 

Mobility offers apprentices a valuable opportunity to acquire technical, transversal and soft skills. Becoming independent, challenging oneself in a new environment and experiencing different cultures are key long-term benefits that can enrich apprentices’ lives. Employers also benefit from fresh perspectives and ideas from visiting/returning apprentices, along with positive reputational effects linked to their involvement in transnational mobility. 

Yet, challenges remain. At the system level, webinar attendees mentioned navigating different national legal systems as a key barrier for both companies and apprentices. At the organisational level, the lack of know-how on setting up company mobility programmes and training staff to host incoming apprentices poses obstacles for employers, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises. At the individual level, apprentices lack awareness of opportunities and sufficient information to unlock them. 

Key steps to boost quality mobility opportunities for apprentices 

Mobility requires strong commitment from apprentices (for whom an experience abroad can be daunting) and from employers (for whom mobility costs human and financial resources). This is why a key step is to focus on providing the right practical information, showcasing the long-term benefits, and sharing good practices. 

During the webinar, it was mentioned that employers’ engagement in mobility can be facilitated by having a team dedicated to developing a mobility programme and becoming the reference point for all key stakeholders involved. It was pointed out that mobility should also be embedded in mission statements and become a recognisable feature of companies. This would improve their reputation as employers and enhance networking opportunities by increasing their chances of attracting potential partners. 

The webinar highlighted that mobility is an ongoing process, with each opportunity providing lessons to improve the quality of future opportunities. Quality acknowledgement can be achieved through labels or awards for companies excelling in apprenticeship mobility. It was also mentioned that peer learning plays a crucial role, as apprentices share stories and advice, promoting mobility and empowering others to undertake similar experiences. 

EAfA Mobility of Apprentices Toolkit – helpful guidance for key stakeholders 

Webinar attendees also had the chance to learn more about the EAfA Mobility of Apprentices Toolkit, which aims to help apprentices, VET providers, and companies understand mobility better. The toolkit provides step-by-step advice on maximising benefits and avoiding pitfalls across three main stages: initiation, implementation and integration. Whether you are an apprentice seeking advice on optimising your stay abroad or an employer/VET provider involved in designing mobility periods, the toolkit offers an introduction to the topic, as well as guidance, resources, good practice examples and self-assessment tools. 

Watch the webinar recording. 

Join the EAfA Community on learning mobility of apprentices 

Are you an EAfA member and interested in mobility? Join the EAfA Community on learning mobility of apprentices by sending us an email at EAfAmembers@ecorys.com. We will inform the Community Leads of your interest. 

You can download the EAfA Mobility of Apprentices Toolkit from the ‘Related documents’ section below.