Sweden: online training supports implementation of work-based learning

Background

Upper secondary vocational education is available through school-based programmes that incorporate at least 15 weeks of work-based learning, and through apprenticeships, in which students spend at least half of the programme duration in work-based learning. 

Skolverket is tasked with promoting the development of the quality and appeal of VET.  To support schools in their search for training companies, the Agency developed this online programme, which assists the implementation process of integrating work-based learning. 

Online programme to strengthen work-based learning 

The goal of the programme is to raise awareness of, and inspire schools to, adopt a systematic approach to ensuring that upper secondary students acquire high-quality vocational skills at the workplace. The programme was revised in 2024, and divided into five core modules:

• action plan – baseline analysis and action plan;
• working life – promoting long-term and successful cooperation with the labour market;
• work-based learning – creating and maintaining high-quality WBL;
• learning – improving student learning in the context of WBL;
• work-based learning for everyone – preparing students for WBL. 

Each module takes approximately four hours to complete and can be undertaken in any order. The online programme includes video examples illustrating various perspectives from schools and researchers. These are accompanied by discussion material, which can be used for peer learning at school. The programme is accessible free of charge and no further login is required. 

The updated version of the online training will be launched in January 2025. 

Read more

• Skolverket. Elevens tid på apl [The students’ time on work-based learning]
• Skolverket. Taking on a Swedish student at your workplace