Germany within ReferNet
ReferNet is the European information network in the field of vocational education. The reports and analyses by ReferNet Germany provide information on various aspects of the German VET system.
describe the structure of the German VET system in a lifelong learning perspective and present a comprehensive picture to a wider public. Since 2019, the contents of the "VET in Germany" report are available in an online database. You can download the different formats in the right column.
summarise key features, challenges and developments of the German VET System. You can download the 2024 edition in the right column on the VET system.
These reports present the most important facts and analyses on specific issues in Germany, e.g. "Teachers' and trainers' professional development", "VET for the future of work", "International long-term mobility in apprenticeships", "Guidance and outreach for inactive and unemployed".
You can download the latest reports in the "Key issues" column on the right.
by the ReferNet German team is the main source of the Cedefop periodic progress report for the European Commission on VET policy in Germany. read more
inform on the latest developments in vocational education and training, employment and labour market issues in Germany. You can click and view the most recent issues in the right-hand column.
ReferNet is the European network for collecting and spreading information and data about current developments in the field of vocational education and training (VET) and educational research. It was set up by Cedefop (European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training) in 2002.
VET experts work together in the national ReferNet teams of the 27 EU member states plus Norway and Iceland. The task of national coordination in Germany has been with the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) from the start.
The aim of the network is to describe and reflect on the diversity of VET systems in Europe, to facilitate continuous scientific exchange and to prepare information and data for national and European actors in politics, research as well as for other experts and interested people. The information gained is published in country reports and serves as the basis for initiatives and processes at European level.
Common report structures make it possible to compare the different national vocational education and training systems and political developments in the EU member states.
For the 20th anniversary of the network, the ReferNet Germany team organised an online seminar on 15 June 2022. The ReferNet activities were presented either with slides (see on the right) or directly on the website (VET in Europe Reports and Thematic Perspectives).
