The dataset for the Timeline of VET policies in Europe is now available to researchers. It enables an in-depth analysis of the developments documented by ReferNet since 2015. The data is accompanied by a readme file providing all the background information.
At a meeting of the ReferNet network in May, in-depth discussions took place at the BIBB on current developments in VET across Europe. The focus was on recognition of foreign qualifications, excellence, international mobility and AI. A company visit gave a practical insight into the dual training.
On 20-21 May 2026, the ReferNet team at BIBB, together with Cedefop, is hosting a partner meeting of the network. The focus is on current developments in VET in Europe, such as the recognition of foreign qualifications, excellence and artificial intelligence in VET.
Cedefop's new Spotlight format offers insights into the labour market landscape, future trends and forecasts of skills needs. The analysis, developed in consultation with the German ReferNet team, is based on various Cedefop tools. The BIBB works as the German partner in ReferNet.
This ReferNet report focuses on public financing of adult learning for individuals and companies in Germany. It also looks at current debates and the issue of data availability.
The perspective of apprentices in the monitoring of vocational education and training policy
Providing valuable input for education policy decisions, monitoring is essential for evidence-based VET policy. But how is the perspective of trainees captured? This article shows how the perspectives of trainees are systematically captured through surveys in Denmark, Switzerland and Germany.
Based on 2023 Spotlights on VET, this brochure provides a concise overview of the VET system in each country of the EU, Iceland and Norway. Next to a system chart, it outlines key features of VET as well as challenges and policy responses on two pages per country.
The Cedefop ReferNet database with detailed information on VET systems in the EU, Iceland and Norway, has been updated. It is worth taking a look at the diagrams, as they provide an excellent overview of the variety of systems in Europe; generate reports or compare by country and topic!
Transparency is crucial in shaping a European Education Area. Its aim is to facilitate communication between the different national education systems. BWP issue 2/2025 “European transparency instruments” takes a look at different instruments, reflecting their origins and relevance to VET in Europe.
An overview of vocational education and training initiatives and programmes in Germany in 2023, successful approaches and challenges from the perspective of European priority setting.
BIBB will again be a partner of Cedefop in the ReferNet network for the next 4 years. Following a successful application, the ReferNet team at BIBB will continue to report on VET policy developments in Germany and provide information on European initiatives.
The International Handbook of Vocational Education and Training (IHBB) has celebrated its 25th anniversary. The editors marked the occasion by presenting a new collected volume to around 50 invited guests and also took the opportunity to look back at the history of this series of BIBB publications.
The International Expert Monitor on work-based learning in IVET
As part of the IEM–project, the first virtual workshop “IEM Results, Reflections and the next Round” took place on 12th of October 2022. At the invitation of the BIBB the participating international experts from the IEM-network exchanged their views on the results from the first survey round.
