Vocational education and training in Poland

In Poland VET is offered at upper secondary, post-secondary and higher vocational levels for young people and adults, with different types of work-based learning schemes available during or after their studies. VET qualifications and their related programmes correspond to the classification of vocational education occupations. Each occupation can have one or more associated qualifications. The Integrated Qualifications System describes and records qualifications acquired within and outside the education system.

The arrival of refugees due to the armed conflict in Ukraine is adding to existing challenges, such as skill mismatches and shortages. The country is focusing on making VET more attractive to society and increasing the number of students enrolled in VET programmes. Measures include expanding work-based learning, developing flexible learning pathways and aligning qualifications with labour market needs.