Redrawing the Map of Vocational Excellence: Insights from the IntVE Conference

The landmark event transcended traditional boundaries and signalled the inception of a globally connected, purposeful movement, defining vocational excellence as dynamic, inclusive, and locally grounded yet internationally interconnected.

A Convergence of Global Perspectives

With more than 100 delegates representing 30 nations, the conference provided an invaluable platform for exchanging insights among Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs), policymakers, practitioners, researchers, and industry leaders. Diverse national experiences intersected, fostering robust dialogue aimed at collectively redefining vocational excellence.

New Tools, Shared Language

The ETF introduced critical new resources designed to reinforce vocational excellence:

• The International Self-Assessment Tool for Centres of Vocational Excellence (ISATCOVE), comprising 577 indicators across 23 criteria, helping institutions benchmark and improve their practices.
• The ETF Vocational Excellence Cookbook, offering practical guidance and concrete examples in teaching, partnerships, governance, and international collaboration.
• The first-ever Vocational Excellence Certificates, formally recognising institutions leading the way in best practices.
• The Vocational Excellence eLibrary, an extensive collection of reports, tools, guidelines, and case studies designed to support vocational training providers, practitioners, and stakeholders in vocational education and training (VET) ecosystems.

From Project to Movement

A pivotal theme underscored by attendees was the transformation of vocational excellence from isolated initiatives into a cohesive global movement. As succinctly captured by one delegate: “It’s no longer a project—it’s a movement.”

This burgeoning movement has catalysed the growth of ETF’s Network for Excellence (ENE), now comprising nearly 350 institutions, with ambitious plans to exceed 500 institutions by year-end. Central to this expanding network are shared commitments to excellence, collaboration, responsiveness, and transformative practices.

Looking Ahead

The Turin conference marked not an endpoint, but a vibrant beginning. With strengthened international partnerships, practical new tools, and formal recognition processes in place, ETF’s vision for a dynamic global ecosystem of vocational excellence is swiftly transitioning from aspiration to reality.

For further insights:
🔗 Advancing towards a global movement for vocational excellence
🔗 ETF – Conference Photo Material

For more information on Centres of Vocational Excellence please visit: wepgage