Completed project · 2017–2020
Integrating Companies in a Sustainable Apprenticeship System
ICSAS (‘Integrating Companies in a Sustainable Apprenticeship System’) offers countries without workplace learning experience first-hand insight into how this training system works, using the footwear industry. Work-based learning (WBL) is a promising approach to developing apprentices' occupational competence and strengthening their identification with their occupation and training company. Germany's dual VET system structurally incorporates real work processes' learning potential through alternating company and vocational school learning venues. In school-based systems such as Romania's and Portugal's, this potential remains untapped. ICSAS aims to demonstrate its use through a one-year dual programme in the footwear industry in Romania and Portugal, modelled on German dual training, and ultimately to incorporate dual elements into those countries' training regulations.
Two aspects are central. First, participating apprentices and companies undergo a one-year pilot phase, a period the consortium considers sufficient to gain substantial experience. Second, particular attention is paid to workplace trainers: how can this central figure be prepared for the task and supported over the longer term?
Erasmus+ partner label