Vocational training in Europe is deeply embedded in culture and serves a larger percentage of the population than in the US. Education is divided into academic and vocational branches in most schools, with variations by country and region. Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein have the most highly organized vocational training system, while the UK has one of the smallest and least organized. Scandinavian countries have a similar system of professional training.
Vocational training in Europe varies by country. For the most part, however, vocational training in Europe is more deeply embedded in the culture and serves a larger percentage of the population than similar services in the United States. Education is routinely divided into academic and vocational branches by mid-adolescence in most schools across countries. This division is carried out in several ways. Depending on the particular country, students can voluntarily choose their type of continuing education, be divided according to one or more exams or a combination of the two.
The degree to which students participate in vocational training in Europe also depends on the specific country as well as the regional area of a student’s country. All Swedish, Germanic and English education systems have similar types of vocational training. Some areas have well-organized systems that involve the state governments of countries, right down to the local municipalities that private vocational schools serve. Private business is also a well-organized and highly involved partner in these endeavors. Most types of vocational training in Europe share the same issues of funding and school efficiency.
The Scandinavian countries – Sweden, Finland and Norway – share a similar system of professional training. Upon completion of a high school program, students enter a high school program with an academic or professional emphasis. Vocational programs generally require two years of schooling, with an emphasis on the career pursued. A student spends two years of supervised learning at a company affiliated with the school as a professional partner. Completion of an additional year of education allows a willing student the opportunity to begin university studies, if desired.
One of the most highly organized systems of professional training in Europe is found in the Germanic countries. Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein offer a vocational training and apprenticeship program that serves more than 66% of adolescents and young adults. Statistics indicate that more than half of people aged 21 and under have completed an internship. Private companies – except very small ones – are required to offer internships. Professional training requirements in Germanic countries are similar enough to allow transfer of professional credits between these countries.
In general, UK countries have some of the smallest and least organized vocational training systems in Europe. Some government programs were introduced with the aim of increasing the number of apprentices. Recent increases in university tuition may also help to increase the number of students participating in vocational training.
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