ReferNet is a European network devoted to the collection, monitoring and dissemination of varied information aimed at understanding the development of vocational education and training (VET). It represents a structured, decentralized and interconnected system in which the 27 member states of the EU plus Iceland and Norway participate.
It was created in 2002 to meet the growing demand for comparative information on VET systems, their policies and evolution in the EU.
Each national partner is a key organisation involved in VET in the country it represents. Partners are particularly well placed to offer:
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First-hand information on the role, purpose, governance and structure of VET;
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Insights into developments and trends in VET policies;
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In-depth analysis of how each country is progressing in its implementation of common European policy objectives.
Why should you be interested in ReferNet?
Whether you work in the VET field, as a student or simply want to know more about vocational training, in this web site you have the possibility to find a wide range of information, with different levels of detail, to fulfil your needs.
Up-to-date reports describing VET systems in the 28 EU countries plus Norway and Iceland.
Reports on European VET policies.
Summary edition of VET system of the country holding the EU presidency every six months.
Articles on specific topics related to VET.
National and European news on VET.
Bibliographic references.
Contacts of national and European ReferNet partners.
All information is available for free on this website.
Further publications related to vocational training policies and systems in the other Member States of the European Union can be found on the Cedefop website along with other databases providing information on specialized publications and training events in Europe.
More information on ReferNet at Cedefop's web and in the brochure Sharing knowledge about VET