How Erasmus+ Is Shaping the Future of Vocational Education in Europe
For three years, Lycée Jean‑Baylet in Valence‑d’Agen has turned its Erasmus+ programme into a catalyst for cross‑border vocational training. From three‑week internships in Slovenia to upcoming student exchanges in Italy, the school’s model demonstrates how European cooperation can boost hands‑on learning and teacher development.
From Pilot Projects to a Growing Network
Initial mobility trips began in spring 2024 when students from the MELEC (electricity) and logistics streams completed three‑week placements in Ljubljana, Slovenia. The following year, the programme added a destination for road‑driving students (CTRM) in Denmark. This year, five mechanics specializing in light and heavy vehicles will head to the Treviso region of northern Italy for an October internship, strengthening ties with a local Italian vocational school.
These steps illustrate a clear trend: **expanding the range of professional sectors** covered by Erasmus+. As more schools see the benefits, we can expect additional fields—such as renewable energy, digital fabrication, and sustainable logistics—to join the mobility map.
Reciprocal Teacher Exchanges: Sharing Pedagogical Best Practices
The partnership started when two Jean‑Baylet teachers visited Italy to study the Italian vocational system. This week, the exchange came full circle: Italian educators Domenico and Katia were hosted by Principal M. Cabanes and observed classes in English, geography, mechanics, electricity, and STI. With the support of Isabelle Cros, who fluently speaks Italian, language barriers were quickly overcome.
Looking ahead, the trend points toward **regular, reciprocal teacher shadowing**. By the next academic cycle, schools may establish formal “job‑shadowing weeks” where educators swap classrooms, fostering a Europe‑wide community of practice.
Building Long‑Term Student Mobility Pipelines
In spring, Jean‑Baylet will welcome ten Italian mechanics for a two‑week placement in Tarn‑et‑Garonne, completing a full exchange loop. Such bilateral arrangements lay the groundwork for **continuous student pipelines**, where each cohort builds on the experiences of the previous one.
Future trends may include:
- Joint certification programmes recognised by both French and Italian vocational authorities.
- Digital platforms that match students with host companies across the EU, streamlining application processes.
- Expanded funding streams within Erasmus+ that support longer stays and multi‑disciplinary projects.
Why These Exchanges Matter in Today’s Europe
Amid growing social and political challenges, Erasmus+ offers a tangible way to reinforce “fraternity between peoples.” By enabling students and teachers to operate side‑by‑side, the programme nurtures mutual understanding, practical skills, and a shared European identity.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What types of students can participate in Erasmus+ vocational exchanges?
- Students enrolled in professional baccalaureate tracks (e.g., electricity, logistics, mechanics, road‑driving) are eligible.
- How long do the internships typically last?
- Placements have ranged from two weeks to three weeks, depending on the host company and sector.
- Are teachers too able to take part?
- Yes. Teachers can join “job‑shadowing” missions to observe teaching methods and curricula in partner schools.
- Is language a barrier for participants?
- Whereas many exchanges are conducted in English, schools often provide bilingual support, as seen with Isabelle Cros assisting Italian teachers.
- Where can I find more information about Erasmus+ for high schools?
- Visit the official French Ministry of Education page on Erasmus+ for students: education.gouv.fr.
What’s Next for Your School?
If your institution is interested in launching or expanding Erasmus+ vocational mobility, start by:
- Identifying partner schools with complementary programmes.
- Connecting with your regional Erasmus+ coordinator.
- Leveraging existing teacher exchanges to build trust and share best practices.
Ready to dive deeper? Check out our guide on Erasmus Success Stories for real‑world examples and step‑by‑step tips.
