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Country: France |
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In France, the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) model involves full-time engineering courses starting at age 15 and lasting for two years. This model emphasises a broad engineering skillset, heavily focused on practical and project-based learning. Unlike standardised assessments that administer the same task to all students, the French approach allows for varied assessments tailored to individual learning experiences. After the initial two years, students transition to more specialised work and industry placements, gaining hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge in their chosen fields. This approach contrasts with the UK system by providing earlier specialisation, practical experience, and industry integration, fostering higher standards and better-prepared graduates. |
| Country: France |
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France’s approach to developing its TVET systems involves robust industry engagement throughout the educational journey of students. Key aspects include: Early and continuous industry engagement: from the outset, students are equipped with the skills to use and design engineering equipment. They are encouraged to set their own projects, often involving the design and manufacture of products for industrial companies. Hands-on projects and work placements: students undertake projects that require them to apply their skills in real-world scenarios, fostering a deep understanding of industry standards and practices. Full-time students benefit from work placements, providing invaluable on-the-job experience. Comprehensive support for apprentices: unlike some UK companies, French businesses take a proactive role in their apprentices’ education. They offer substantial support, allowing apprentices to rotate through different departments within the company to gain a broad understanding of the business. Active role of businesses: French companies do not merely rely on colleges for training but take responsibility for providing comprehensive, hands-on training. This integrated approach ensures apprentices receive a well-rounded education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Sector and regional industry boards: these boards play a crucial role in supporting and investing in TVET. They collaborate closely with educational institutions and businesses to ensure that training programs are aligned with industry needs and regional economic goals. Overall, France’s model ensures that students and apprentices receive a holistic education that is closely aligned with industry requirements, preparing them effectively for their professional careers. |
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Country: France |
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In training and developing WorldSkills individuals, France adopts several distinctive practices compared to the UK: Integration of competition in education: French educational institutions embed competition preparation into the regular curriculum through regional and local heats. This ensures that competitive skills are developed in the classroom from an early stage. Continuous training for selected competitors: once students are selected for higher levels of competition, such as national finals, colleges continue to provide dedicated training and support, ensuring ongoing skill development and refinement. Enhanced funding and support: There is significant financial backing and support from former competitors, who contribute their experience and mentorship to current participants in their own workplaces or at the students place of work. This network of alumni plays a crucial role in the training process. Use of International Pressure Tests (IPTs): France emphasises the use of International Pressure Tests not only for competition preparation but also as a fundamental part of the learning process. This approach ensures that students are exposed to high-stakes, real-world scenarios that enhance their practical skills and readiness for international competition. Overall, France’s approach involves a holistic integration of competitive training within the educational framework, continuous support from colleges, increased funding, and a strong emphasis on International Pressure Tests. |
To enhance the UK TVET system and better prepare students for industry, several key practices and insights from international experiences should be considered:
Demonstrating best practices and methodologies: educators should model best practices and employ productive methodologies in their teaching. This includes engaging in continuous professional development (CPD) to stay current with industry advancements and educational strategies.
Challenging students with real-world conditions: instead of relying solely on standardised assessments and open-ended deadlines, educators should introduce time constraints and pressure to simulate real-world conditions. This approach encourages students to develop resilience and problem-solving skills under practical constraints.
Promoting student-led projects and industry engagement: Increasing the emphasis on student-led projects and industry challenges can enhance learning outcomes. Projects should be designed to cover multiple subjects and replicate real-world scenarios, fostering a more integrated and contextualised learning experience.
Integrated teaching and assessment projects: At New College Lanarkshire, we have created multifaceted teaching and assessment projects that span various subjects, more accurately reflecting workplace environments. For instance, in the Fabrication & Welding section, instead of conducting isolated assessments, we design comprehensive projects that incorporate multiple welding processes and related tasks, such as manual drawing and pattern development. This integrated approach provides a more holistic learning experience and better prepares students for real-world applications.
Encouraging innovation in assessment design: while designing integrated activities mapped to qualifications can be time-consuming, it offers significant benefits. Although there is resistance from staff who may be apprehensive about deviating from standardised criteria, creating locally devised, integrated assessments can greatly enhance learning. Clear communication about the flexibility in assessment design and the value of innovative approaches is crucial.
Emphasising industry preparation in CAD courses: in our CAD courses, we emphasise that students are preparing for careers in industry, with qualifications being a by-product of acquiring relevant skills. The broad range of projects undertaken ensures that assessment criteria are naturally covered, while we manage the mapping and administrative tasks behind the scenes to streamline the process.
Incorporating these practices can significantly improve the UK TVET system by aligning education more closely with industry needs and preparing students more effectively for their future careers.
Rapid execution: demonstrating exceptional speed in using CAD software, enabling the efficient completion of complex design tasks within tight deadlines.
Meticulous attention to detail: exhibiting a high level of precision and accuracy in every aspect of design, ensuring that all specifications and requirements are meticulously met.
In-depth software proficiency: possessing comprehensive knowledge of advanced CAD software and engineering systems, allowing for the seamless execution of intricate design processes.
Advanced problem-solving skills: displaying a strong ability to tackle and resolve complex issues, whether related to design challenges or the practical application of software tools to create innovative solutions.
Creative and innovative thinking: applying creativity to develop novel and efficient design solutions that push the boundaries of conventional engineering practices.
Strong theoretical and practical understanding: combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring designs are not only innovative but also feasible and functional in real-world scenarios.