France: the growing role of the Regions in unlocking career guidance in vocational education and training

Latest findings highlight regional initiatives in career guidance in public schools.

Since the 2018 reform of the continuing training system, the national network of regional career guidance services (Service public régional de l’orientation – SPRO) has been responsible for public lifelong guidance services. Each SPRO organises information sessions in secondary education schools on professions and employment trends in the local economy. The national network of regional career guidance services is managed by the Regions, which are responsible for the networking of all services, structures and mechanisms in the field of lifelong guidance.

This coordination role particularly promotes cooperation among local actors, such as schools, businesses, and training centres, to meet labour market demands better.

The association of the French Regions commissioned an analysis report to assess the effectiveness of the SPROs in coordinating and delivering career guidance services across French Regions. It evaluates the progress made since the 2014 reform, identifies persistent challenges (such as overlapping competencies, lack of clarity, and resource constraints), and proposes recommendations to improve the accessibility, coherence, and efficiency of career guidance for individuals. The report also highlights the evolving nature of jobs and the necessity of lifelong career information to address emerging labour market demands.

Better collaboration between schools and businesses

According to the report findings, by the end of 2023/24, three-quarters of the Regions had already organised career orientation sessions in secondary schools, ensuring that pupils, particularly those in VET schools, have access to up-to-date information on career and training opportunities within their Region.

In 2024/25, career guidance in IVET is being promoted through the gradual establishment of a liaison office with local businesses (bureau des entreprises) in each VET school, spearheaded by the Ministry of National Education, to strengthen partnerships with local companies. These offices are complementary to the regional coordination on continuing training and employment policies by better aligning training programmes with economic needs.

Good practice example: one service, many destinations

The Pays de la Loire region launched an innovative initiative, Orientibus, a mobile service designed to inform pupils about occupations in demand and relevant training opportunities available to them. Orientibus buses, equipped with digital and interactive resources, visit schools to help learners explore various vocational pathways that are linked to their region's specific economic needs. This flexible approach improves access to information, particularly in rural or remote areas.

Looking ahead

The evolving institutional framework for career guidance in France is a subject of ongoing debate. During the 2024 interregional meetings on career guidance and orientation in Marseille, participants highlighted challenges linked to fragmented governance and shared responsibilities between national and regional levels. Emerging priorities, such as the growing demand for environmental and digital skills, are reshaping the focus of career guidance and training programmes.

Read more