In September 2024, Luxembourg introduced a new apprenticeship programme format, combining work-based learning with intensive French language training. It encompasses team-teaching professional language during practical training and 8 hours of French class per week. This initiative aims to raise the inclusiveness of VET in Luxembourg, reduce language barriers, improve accessibility for young, recently immigrated third-country migrants, and increase their chances of sustainable labour market integration upon achieving a qualification.
Initiative background and beneficiaries
The language-integrated work-based learning programmes target young adults (aged 18-23) who cannot access regular VET programmes due to insufficient proficiency in the country's teaching languages (German, French and English). Many participants have experienced disruptions in their educational pathways and learning process, and have been schooled in multiple languages during transitions between countries. Although many of them possess prior professional experience or have acquired skills through formal, non-formal, or informal learning, they may struggle with independent reading and writing in the Latin alphabet.
Initiative kick-off
As of September 2024, 10 language-integrated VET programmes leading to a Certificate of Professional Capacity (CCP) (EQF Level 2) are offered in the following fields: cook, electrician, painter, hairdresser/beauty specialist, autobody repair technician, vehicle painter, waiter/server, pastry chef, housekeeper, and heating and sanitary installer.
The curriculum of the language-integrated CCP programmes follows the standard dual-learning programmes involving in-company training. It leads to the same national examination, ensuring uniform quality standards.
Innovative teaching methodology
After an initial 6-week introductory phase to confirm their career choices and engage in intensive French language classes, learners sign a contract with the National Centres for Continuing Vocational Education and Training (CNFPC). Apprentice pupils in the alternative apprenticeship scheme earn a salary equivalent to 60% of that earned by in-company apprentices. Work-based learning is conducted on CNFPC premises, combining practical training with language instruction. A language teacher collaborates through team teaching during both hands-on practical sessions and theoretical classes. The programme’s innovative methodology emphasises fluency over accuracy, enabling learners to build confidence and autonomy in their language use more quickly. The focus lies more on developing oral language proficiency than writing skills. Moreover, intensive language training is offered during school holidays. To ease the apprentices’ transition into the labour market, opportunities for internships in partner companies are offered during school breaks, starting in the second year.
Class sizes are small, ranging from six to eight learners, to encourage interaction and provide tailored, individual support. 80 learners registered on two regional sites for the introduction phase; in December 2024, 67 apprentices were under contract.
Read more
- Definition of Apprentice pupils: Law of 19 December 2008 (amended) reforming vocational Education and Training, Art. 2, 12 (in French)
- National Centres for Continuing Vocational Education and Training (CNFPC) (in French)
| Please cite this news item as: ReferNet Luxembourg, & Cedefop (2025, January 22). Luxembourg: language-integrated work-based learning for young adult migrants. National news on VET. |