ColegauCymru has conducted a comprehensive review of the Finnish Vocational Education and Training (VET) model to identify learning for Wales. Set in the context of the Welsh Government’s Review of Vocational Qualifications and the establishment of Medr, the aim was to identify practical insights that could enhance VET provision. Taith Pathway 2 funding enabled collaboration with partners in Finland - the Finnish Association for the Development of Vocational Education and Training (AMKE).
The Finnish VET system has gained global recognition for its innovative approach and high standards. Since 2017, Finland has undergone significant education reforms aimed at creating an agile VET system capable of responding to global challenges, including an aging population, rapidly evolving workplaces, and the societal impacts of technological change. As Wales grapples with similar issues, Finland offers learning and inspiration.
Key Learnings from Finland
Through a comparative analysis, the project produced six high-level recommendations that could transform vocational education in Wales:
Develop a National VET Strategy A cohesive strategy is crucial for articulating Wales’ aspirations for vocational education. It will help identify priorities and clarify the roles of colleges in achieving these goals.
- Implement National Skills Anticipation Planning Finland's reliance on accurate, timely data for planning ensures that VET meets the evolving needs of the labour market. Wales should adopt a similar approach to overcome regional discrepancies and streamline VET provisions.
- Create Flexible Funding Approaches The current funding system in Wales can hinder VET providers. Developing funding models that allow for flexibility and adaptability will empower colleges to meet local demands more effectively.
- Explore Competence Points System Engaging with the VET sector to assess the feasibility of a competence points system could enhance recognition of skills gained through work experience and prior learning.
- Individualised Vocational Planning Careers Wales should collaborate with VET providers to develop tailored vocational planning systems that support learners of all ages in navigating their educational and career pathways.
- Prioritise Professional Learning A focus on continuous professional development for VET educators will ensure that they remain at the forefront of vocational excellence.
A Call to Action
The Finnish model underscores the importance of cohesiveness and agility within the VET system, characterized by strong governance, funding methodologies, and trust among partners. Finland's approach includes long-term strategic planning that accounts for the unique operating environment of VET. In Wales, a similar strategy is needed – for learners, employers, and to position Wales as a global leader in vocational education.
ColegauCymru Chief Executive, David Hagendyk, highlighted the significant value of this project:
By learning from Finland's success, Wales has the opportunity to create a more effective, flexible, and responsive VET system. This is not just a matter of policy; it is about delivering meaningful outcomes for learners and meeting the demands of a rapidly changing job market. This piece of work is a timely reminder that the top recommendation from the Welsh Government’s Vocational Qualifications Review in 2023 - a national strategy for VET. This strategy is urgently needed. Anything less would be insufficient in coordinating the many ‘moving parts’ of the VET system in Wales, where no single agency operates in isolation. The strategy will offer us an opportunity to clearly articulate Wales’ ambitions for what vocational education and training can deliver for Wales. It is now time for meaningful action to deliver a solution needed by both learners and employers alike.
Further Information
Strategies for Moving Freely - The Finnish Approach to Vocational Education and Training
October 2024
Welsh Government Report
Review of vocational qualifications in Wales: report
11 September 2023
Rachel Cable, Director of Policy and Public Affairs
Rachel.Cable@ColegauCymru.ac.uk
