INOVA+ supports the first European Survey of Vocational Education and Training Teachers and Trainers

The European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop) has launched the first European Vocational Teachers Survey (EVTS), a pioneering study that is already being implemented in VET schools and centres across Europe, including Portugal. INOVA+ is part of the study team, with specific responsibility for the work carried out in the Portuguese context.

Addressing the shortage of VET teachers and trainers in Europe

Across Europe, the shortage of vocational education and training teachers and trainers is worsening, particularly in STEM areas (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and foreign languages—key skills for the European Union’s twin green and digital transitions.

EVTS is the EU’s first comprehensive survey targeting VET teachers and trainers, involving around 14,000 professionals across 23 Member States. In Portugal, the survey is being administered to trainers in ISCED level 3 VET schools, selected at random.

The study collects information on critical aspects of the profession, such as:

  • the effectiveness and relevance of continuous professional development;
  • skills needs linked to digital and green technologies;
  • inclusive classroom/training management;
  • job satisfaction and working conditions;
  • factors influencing the attractiveness of a VET teaching/training career.

The results, expected in 2027, will support the design of national and European policies under the European Skills Agenda, and will also provide useful insights for participating schools and centres to strengthen their training plans and professional development strategies.

EVTS: INOVA+’s role in Portugal

Within the EVTS study led by Cedefop, INOVA+ is the subcontracted entity responsible for identifying and establishing contact with VET schools and centres in Portugal.

Building on its solid experience in capacity-building for organisations and professionals in the education and training sector, INOVA+’s Education team:

  • collaborates in identifying, contacting and facilitating engagement with policy structures responsible for overseeing and managing VET policies and governance;
  • takes part in policy forums discussing the methodology and strategies for dissemination and questionnaire collection among trainers;
  • cooperates in identifying and establishing initial contacts with VET schools and centres in Portugal;
  • supports the dissemination of the questionnaires at national and European level through its networks.

In this way, INOVA+ helps ensure that the perspectives of VET teachers and trainers in Portugal are fully represented in a European study with a direct impact on policies and VET teaching and training practices.

Questionnaires now live: call for Portuguese trainers to participate

The EVTS questionnaires are now available and being administered in participating countries. In Portugal, the selected schools and vocational training centres are receiving invitations and survey access links directly.

The participation of Portuguese trainers is essential to:

  • make the real-world challenges faced on the ground visible;
  • give voice to needs in terms of working conditions, recognition and professional development;
  • influence policies and support measures that can strengthen the attractiveness and sustainability of the VET teaching/training career.

INOVA+ will continue to support the dissemination of the survey among its partners and networks in the education and training sector, encouraging strong national participation in this European initiative.

More information about the study or INOVA+’s work:
Andreia Monteiro – andreia.monteiro@inova.business