The results of EAfA’s 2023–2024 monitoring survey are out!

Progress on EAfA’s objectives 

The majority of respondents reported progress on EAfA’s six objectives, with the quality of apprenticeships emerging as the area with the most substantial progress (77%), followed by image (73%), digital (72%) and supply (71%). Specifically: 

• A standout achievement was the creation of over 326,000 apprenticeship places between September 2023 and August 2024. Members offer financial allowances or compensation to apprentices, along with health and sickness benefits and additional training opportunities. 
• Respondents implemented various measures to enhance the quality of apprenticeships, aligning with the European Framework for Quality and Effective Apprenticeships. These included improvements in pedagogical support to trainers ranging from check-in systems to advanced training, as well as updating curricula, training content and learning outcomes to incorporate industry-relevant skills.  
• To improve the image of apprenticeships, members engaged in events such as networking sessions, conferences and job fairs. They also created networks and implemented new outreach strategies both on social media and traditional media. 
• EAfA members actively participated in mobility projects, including EU mobility schemes funded by Erasmus+, contributing to at least 12,000 mobility experiences between September 2023 and August 2024. 
• Respondents incorporated digital and green skills into vocational education and training curricula, demonstrating a commitment to adapting apprenticeships to the new needs of the workforce. Initiatives promoting sustainable behaviours inside and outside the workplace were also introduced. 

Main challenges and good practices for the EAfA community 

Most survey respondents faced challenges in implementing their pledges over the past year. The key obstacles were a lack of financial and human resources, administrative burdens and the negative perception of apprenticeships. 

Nonetheless, EAfA members highlighted many examples of good practice, including participation in awareness-raising activities, information dissemination, stakeholder cooperation, and the implementation of new training programmes. Furthermore, a third of respondents introduced measures to support apprentices’ mental health and wellbeing, such as counselling services, mental health awareness training and activities, and mentorship programmes. 

The added value of EAfA 

An overwhelming majority of respondents (94%) reported a positive perception of EAfA as a multi-stakeholder platform for improving the quality, supply, image of apprenticeships and mobility of apprentices. This positive outlook is shared across all stakeholder groups. 

Most respondents recognised the opportunities for cooperation, networking and knowledge exchange offered by EAfA, particularly through its events and resources. Organisations found the Alliance helpful in enhancing the visibility and reputation of apprenticeships at the EU level. They called for EAfA to continue expanding its activities and opportunities for member interaction, both online and in person. 

Read the full report here. 

If you are not already a member, consider making your own pledge and becoming part of the EAfA community. 

Find out how to become an EAfA member. 

Do not forget to follow the Alliance on LinkedIn to stay up to date with EAfA news and share your ideas with the community.