The first half of 2025 has been particularly active for apprenticeships on the European political agenda. The European Commission and the European Alliance for Apprenticeships (EAfA) announced a new action plan, introduced new tools, strengthened communities, and initiated discussions on the role of apprenticeships in the green and digital transition, social inclusion, and regional cohesion. Below is a summary of the key news, initiatives, and events from January to July 2025.
Key News and Initiatives
EAfA Action Plan 2025 – Roadmap for the Year
January 16, 2025 – The annual EAfA Action Plan was published, outlining measures to ensure high-quality apprenticeships, strengthen sectoral partnerships, expand the network of events, and foster community engagement across Europe.
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The Role of In-company Trainers in Apprenticeships
April 1, 2025 – An information booklet was released highlighting the importance of in-company trainers in ensuring apprenticeship quality, supporting their professional development, and strengthening cooperation with vocational education and training institutions.
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Webinar: “Shaping the Future of Apprenticeships in the EU: Ensuring Quality and Fairness”
April 10, 2025 – A webinar focused on quality and fair working conditions in apprenticeships. It presented the EFQEA quality framework, measures to support SMEs, and synergies with Erasmus+ and the Pact for Skills initiative.
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New EAfA Community: “Higher Apprenticeships”
February 12, 2025 – A Higher Apprenticeships community was launched, bringing together members dedicated to improving the quality of higher-level apprenticeships, addressing challenges, and sharing ideas.
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EAfA High-Level Event 2025 in Brussels
June 30 – July 1, 2025 – The event “Apprenticeships: For a Skills Union and a Clean Industry Deal” brought together more than 230 participants. Discussions focused on green and digital skills, gender equality in STEM, and new internship opportunities in EU institutions. The EAfA community grew to over 500 members.
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EAN Annual Meeting – Learners’ Voice in Apprenticeships
July 30, 2025 – The European Apprentices Network (EAN) annual meeting emphasized the importance of learner involvement in decision-making. A new platform was presented to strengthen representation, democratic commitment, and participation in systems.
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EAfA Good Practice Initiative
July 25, 2025 – A new initiative was launched to collect apprenticeship good practice examples. These will be included in a dedicated collection showcasing the work of five EAfA communities, covering mobility, social and gender inclusion, the green and digital transition, urban and regional development, and higher-level apprenticeships.
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Summary
These initiatives and events demonstrate that apprenticeships are becoming a strategic tool on the EU policy agenda for skills development, social inclusion, and industrial transformation.