EAfA Member Spotlight: Association of Slovene Higher Vocational Colleges (HVC)

In this spotlight article, we highlight the initiatives and achievements of the Association of Slovene Higher Vocational Colleges (HVC), a key player in vocational education and training (VET) in Slovenia. We spoke with Alicia-Leonor Sauli Miklavčič, Head of Development at HVC, to explore how their pledge is contributing to the EAfA’s objectives and the broader VET landscape. 

Can you provide a brief overview of your pledge and which EAfA objectives it relates to? 

Our pledge focuses on increasing the availability of apprenticeships and improving engagement with stakeholders, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). We support employers in developing apprenticeship programmes and help educational institutions expand high-quality opportunities. By implementing the EURASHE Work-Based Learning (WBL) Charter and Apprenticeship Quality Criteria, we aim to improve the quality and transparency of apprenticeships. 

We have a transparent monitoring framework, which includes regular surveys to gather employer feedback, ensuring apprenticeship programmes meet their needs. We also run an annual Call for Best Diploma projects, aligning student work with company needs and real-world challenges. Additionally, we promote Erasmus+ mobility placements, which provide valuable international experience for professional and personal development. 

Our pledge supports the EAfA objectives of increasing apprenticeship supply, improving quality, enhancing the image of apprenticeships, and promoting mobility in Europe. 

In which fields does your organisation offer apprenticeships? 

HVC represents 48 Slovene Higher Vocational Colleges, offering EQF Level 5 programmes in 28 locations across Slovenia. We offer 33 apprenticeship programmes in fields such as car-service management, digital marketing, hospitality and tourism, forestry, visual communication design, and environmental protection, among others. 

Approximately 40% of these programmes are delivered through in-company work-based learning, with apprentices supervised by certified mentors. Our teaching staff stay up to date with industry trends to ensure apprentices receive relevant training and experience. 

How did you first hear about EAfA and why did you decide to submit a pledge? 

We recognised the importance of internationalisation early on, soon after our establishment in 2005. Since joining EURASHE in 2007, we have participated in working groups and policy development in professional higher education. When the European Commission proposed a renewed EAfA in 2020, we saw it as an excellent opportunity to help shape vocational education policies and align with international standards. 

Being part of EAfA allows us to contribute to developing flexible education systems that meet the needs of the digital and green economies. In Slovenia, we are also reforming higher vocational programmes to focus on sustainability and digitisation, ensuring that students are prepared for future industry challenges. 

How has EAfA membership helped your organisation to facilitate regional collaboration and partnerships across Europe? 

EAfA has provided us with a valuable platform for knowledge sharing and networking. As the representative body for all Slovene Higher Vocational Colleges, we use this network to expand our partnerships and engage in international projects. Through EAfA, we’ve developed several international partnerships, facilitating the exchange of best practices and collaborative projects. Participating in seminars and workshops has kept us informed about apprenticeship trends and strengthened our regional and international connections. 

What opportunities has your organisation taken to contribute to EAfA activities? 

We have actively participated in EAfA ‘Get Together!’ events and webinars focused on integrating mobility into apprenticeships, practical implementation, and supporting Ukrainian nationals in the EU through apprenticeships. These events have allowed us to explore new partnerships and engage in European initiatives related to apprenticeship development. 

How have you promoted EAfA membership to your members and partners? 

We promote EAfA membership through LinkedIn articles, monthly newsletters, and regular social media posts. At our conferences and workshops, we highlight the benefits of EAfA membership, such as networking, collaboration, and professional development opportunities. 

Since submitting a pledge, what activities has your organisation undertaken to achieve the EAfA objectives? 

Since submitting our pledge, we’ve supported employers with business meetings and career opportunity initiatives to help them implement apprenticeship programmes. We assist companies in setting up schemes by providing guidance, sharing best practices, and helping them navigate the application process. 

As the representative body for Slovene Higher Vocational Colleges, we’ve promoted EAfA events like conferences and webinars to our members. We also work to enhance the image of apprenticeships and professional higher education by sharing graduate success stories and encouraging international exchange opportunities. 

Do you have any standout stories about apprentices who have successfully completed an apprenticeship? 

One standout achievement was our students’ participation in the NASA HUNCH Culinary Challenge, where they secured third place globally for their innovative breakfast recipe. This led to scholarship opportunities at Sullivan University in Kentucky, United States, demonstrating the real-world impact of apprenticeships. 

We also host an annual competition showcasing student theses that directly impact companies by introducing new technologies and improving processes, highlighting the relevance of our apprenticeship programmes to the evolving job market. 

Why should other organisations join EAfA and submit a pledge? 

EAfA provides access to tools and resources that help organisations improve their apprenticeship programmes. Members benefit from international collaboration opportunities, recognised certifications, and increased visibility in the field of vocational training. Joining EAfA is a great way to stay up to date with industry trends, engage in policy discussions, and contribute to the future of vocational education across Europe. 

Has HVC’s story inspired you to learn more about submitting a EAfA pledge? Find out how you can start your journey to becoming a EAfA member on our EAfA Membership and Pledges webpage.