Facility Job – methods and practices toward post diploma work placement of disadvantaged learners

<< Background >>We applied for this project because we wanted to respond to the pressing challenges of integrating young people, especially those in vulnerable situations, into the labour market. One in five people in Europe is unemployed, and young people with disabilities, learning difficulties and socio-cultural barriers have a particularly difficult start to their careers. In the face of increasing competitiveness in the labour market and the growing number of young people at risk of exclusion, it was necessary to develop effective mechanisms to support their transition from education to employment.The project addressed the following needs:1. Increasing the effectiveness of apprenticeship programmes in VET schools.2. Preventing early school leaving.3. Supporting the integration of VET graduates into the labour market.4. Strengthening cooperation between schools and enterprises. 5. Development of European strategies to counter youth unemployment.In summary, the project addressed key needs related to education, employment and social integration of young people, especially those at risk of exclusion, and contributed to their empowerment in the labour market through the description of effective support systems and work practices.<< Objectives >>In realising this project, we aimed to increase the employability of vulnerable VET graduates who require additional support in the transition from education to the labour market. Our main goal was to implement effective support mechanisms that will help young people develop key professional and soft skills, build a positive attitude towards work and increase their competitiveness in the labour market.The project aimed to:1. Strengthen the preparation of VET graduates for entering the labour market by: Increasing their self-awareness of personal and professional skills; Shaping a positive attitude towards work,2. Strengthen intermediary institutions, VET and their staff by: Improving methods of career guidance, career management and motivation building for graduates; Better linking vocational education to the labour market by building stronger relationships with employers; Promoting effective job placement mechanisms; Benefits of better matching internships and apprenticeships to the needs of graduates and employers.<< Implementation >>The project was systemic and long-term, and its results contributed to the presentation of the best, more flexible and tailored to the real needs of the market model of vocational training and more effective support for young people on their way to employment.The grant application provides for the implementation of 6 Work Packages:Below, we will present a description of the status of implementation of activities within individual packages: Package No. 1: Best practice exchange – 100% completedPackage No. 2: Study visit in Poland – 100% completedPackage No. 3: Study visit in Italy – 100% completedPackage No. 4: Publication with good practices – 100% completedPackage No. 5: Multiplier event – Poland – 100% completedPackage No. 6: Multiplier event – Italy – 100% completed<< Results >>The partners prepared and conducted surveys among institutions that have the best solutions in the field of internships, apprenticeships and activation (as well as support in entering the labour market) of people with special needs. A report was prepared based on the results of these surveys, supplemented by interviews with representatives of the surveyed entities.The study visit to Poland, which took place from 12-17.06.2023, allowed the Aurive Team to broaden their knowledge in the following areas: vocational education and training in Poland, activation and career counselling programmes.Study visits were also held in Italy on 13-17 November 2023 and 4-9 June 2024. During the study visits, the IC Content Team had the opportunity to get to know the institutions presenting best practices in Italy.The Content Team has prepared an e-book in 3 language versions (English, Polish, Italian): FACILITY JOB Methods of professional activation of pupils and graduates in a difficult situation - good practices from Poland and Italy.Multiplier event in Poland - 29.11.2024 in Olsztyn. 34 representatives from institutions representing the target group took part. Multiplier event in Italy - 19.12.2024 in Verbania. 35 stakeholders took part.