New EAfA factsheet highlights the importance of basic skills in apprenticeships

The new factsheet from the European Alliance for Apprenticeships (EAfA) examines how apprenticeship programmes can contribute to strengthening the basic skills of apprentices. 

Basic skills are essential for learners to succeed in both training and work. These skills include literacy, mathematics, scientific, digital and citizenship skills. Employers highly value people with these skills, benefitting from more capable, confident and adaptable apprentices. Moreover, basic skills play a crucial role at the level of society, contributing to economic competitiveness and social cohesion in Europe.

However, evidence shows that students in vocational education and training (VET), including those in apprenticeships, may face greater challenges with basic skills compared to their peers in general education.

Addressing these challenges is increasingly important as the green and digital transitions reshape the skills needed in today’s workplaces. 

Why basic skills matter

Strong basic skills bring multiple benefits to learners and the apprenticeship system.

Learners with strong basic skills are more likely to advance and successfully complete their apprenticeship programmes. These skills also enhance their performance in the workplace and boost long-term employability after the apprenticeship ends

In addition, improving basic skills encourages wider participation in apprenticeships, particularly from underrepresented groups.

Approaches to strengthening basic skills

EAfA’s new factsheet highlights practical ways that apprenticeships can contribute to developing basic skills, such as by integrating basic skills training in initial vocational programmes and pre-apprenticeship pathways for young learners.

Embedding targeted support for adults with low skills levels directly into the workplace can also support the development of their basic skills.

The factsheet shows that key success factors for strengthening basic skills include accurately assessing learners’ needs, using learner-centred teaching methods, and ensuring effective collaboration between VET providers and employers. 

By showcasing good practices, the factsheet provides guidance on how apprenticeships can drive basic skills development and contribute to the European Commission’s Union of Skills initiative. 

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