GO GREEN: Supporting the acquisition of Green Skills in VET through work based learning

The GO GREEN project aimed to promote a green culture in vocational education and training (VET) and foster collaboration between academia and the private sector to develop green skills among stud...

The GO GREEN project aimed to promote a green culture in vocational education and training (VET) and foster collaboration between academia and the private sector to develop green skills among students. It sought to support students in upper secondary and higher vocational education in acquiring green competencies during their apprenticeships. By integrating sustainability into work-based learning, it equipped students with practical and theoretical knowledge to meet labor market demands, while also preparing educators to effectively teach green practices using innovative tools and technologies. The project supported the European Union’s Green Deal, Sustainable Development Goals, and New Skills Agenda, addressing the need for green and digital transitions. It emphasized collaboration between VET institutions and businesses to align educational objectives with industry needs and encouraged companies to actively participate in training students for the green economy. The project aimed to bridge the gap between education and the evolving demands of a greener economy, ensuring long-term impact by fostering innovation, collaboration, and opportunities for future generations.

WP1: Project Management focused on coordination, administration, and quality assurance. Monthly online meetings were held to monitor progress, address challenges, and ensure alignment with project goals. A quality assurance plan was developed, including monitoring and evaluation processes, documentation, and risk analysis. WP2: Platform for Acquiring Green Skills in Work-Based Learning involved creating an online platform and a self-assessment tool for green skills. Two study visits in the Netherlands and Spain allowed partners to observe how green skills were integrated into work-based learning. WP3: Capacity Building for VET Trainers aimed to enhance trainers' skills for green apprenticeships. Activities included the development of guides, a transnational workshop in Greece, and national seminars to train educators on organizing green apprenticeships. WP4: Implementation of GO GREEN Apprenticeships tested the apprenticeship framework with pilot programs, supported by guides and a green apprenticeship methodology. WP5: Sustainability and Impact focused on ensuring the long-term adoption of results, including organizing conferences, social media campaigns, and publishing best practices from the pilot apprenticeships.

GO GREEN project results: 1 Green Apprenticeship Framework: established a structured approach for integrating green skills into apprenticeships 2 Trainers’ Guide: was designed to help educators implement the Green Apprenticeship Framework 3 Capacity Building: Transnational Training of Trainers Workshop, where trainers from all partner organizations built their capacity to integrate green skills into WBL programs. Additionally, national seminars were held across partner countries, equipping local trainers with the knowledge and tools to implement the framework effectively 4 Workplace Learning Pilot Programs: involved students and trainers applying green skills in real-world workplace settings, providing valuable insights into the framework’s practical application. 5 Resources for Students and Trainers: Orientation Guide: tips and exercises based on the GreenComp framework to help students develop green skills Apprentice Handbook: featuring gamification activities to engage students in sustainability-focused learning 6 Sharing Knowledge and Raising Awareness: A compendium of best practices from pilot programs across Europe. National and transnational conferences Social media campaigns and online event