It is my pleasure to present you the first of our English newsletters in line with the learning for life program at the Bertelsmann Stiftung. We will be sending you the newsletter to inform you about our activities and publications available in English from time to time. The objective of our projects is to improve vocational training systems, broaden access to lifelong learning and promote the validation of informally acquired competencies. In line with these objectives we analyse, develop new ideas and identify examples of best practices.
What’s more, we would like to invite you to communicate with us. Our Blog and Facebook pages (in German) include up-to-date information, summaries and opinions about our work. Take the opportunity to comment and get in touch with us! We look forward to hearing from you.

Sincere regards,
Frank Frick

Study

Recognizing non-formal and informal competences

European countries need a binding validation system for non-formally or informally acquired competences to establish equal opportunity on the employment market and utilize the potential of refugees. Seven European countries have demonstrated how such systems can be designed. Read more

Study

Companies in Spain could profit from apprenticeship training

Measures introduced three years ago for in-firm apprenticeship training have resonated only marginally among Spain's companies. Less than five percent of all trainees are receiving in-firm training in addition to their vocational education. Our study shows that Spanish firms are ignoring this opportunity at a disservice to themselves. Read more

Video

Investing in Skills and Education for Sustainable Growth

What strategies have proven effective in boosting growth, employment, and social inclusion? How could the private sector play a bigger role in financing education while addressing a mismatch of skills? What can be done today to prepare us for the world of work of tomorrow? Dr. Jörg Dräger, Bertelsmann Stiftung Executive Board member, discussing about Investing in Skills and Education for Sustainable Growth @ WISE 2015.  Watch the video

Video

Advantages and challenges of the German vocational training model

Germany is famous for its vocational training programs. What are the benefits of the dual system? Can the German system be a model for other countries? These and further questions are answered by Bertelsmann Stiftung Executive Board member Dr. Jörg Dräger. Watch the video

Website

Project “Further Education for all”

The “Further Education for all” project makes continuing education opportunities and deficits of the German landscape transparent, down to the regional level. In cooperation with academia, practice, politics and the economy, we develop and test concepts for better educational guidance, validation of competences and the use of participant-oriented forms of learning. Our goal is to help discover, develop and recognize the competences that people with low levels of formal qualifications have. Read more

Website

Project "Vocational Training: Opportunities for Everyone!"

The “Vocational Training: Opportunities for Everyone” initiative promotes reforms allowing for greater flexibility of vocational training in Germany. Because everyone should have the chance to develop their skills and talents, vocational training should address a broader spectrum of capabilities among youths. Read more