WINGS

Innovation in work-based learning for the skills of the future

What is WINGS?

The WINGS project (Work-Based Innovation for Next-Generation Skills) was created with the mission of reducing the gap between Vocational Education and Training (VET) and the real needs of today’s labour market. It uses the Work-Based Learning (WBL) model, an approach in which students develop practical skills directly in real or simulated work environments.

WINGS enables young people not only to learn theory, but also to participate in the entire production cycle—from management to service delivery and marketing—guided by expert tutors. This project not only improves employability, but also fosters a culture of entrepreneurship and social inclusion.

Why do we do it?

Despite the benefits of practical learning, the current system faces critical challenges that WINGS aims to address:

• Lack of specialisation: Many tutors and companies lack the specific tools to guide students through experiential learning processes.
• Recognition of competences: There is a real difficulty in officially certifying the skills that students acquire informally in the workplace.
• Outdated environments: Workplaces need to be adapted to become more sustainable and inclusive, in line with European priorities.

Project objectives

The main objective is to strengthen work-based learning systems by developing common strategies and innovative tools. Our pillars are:

• Adapting VET: Aligning education with the changing demands of the labour market.
• Fostering innovation: Introducing new methodologies into the vocational education and training system.
• Improving the WBL environment: Creating tools that ensure learning at work is effective, sustainable, and certified.

Main activities

The project is structured around five key strands designed to maximise its impact:

• Common strategy: Collection of more than 20 European good practices and the creation of guidelines to improve learning environments.
• Training materials: Development of a multilingual manual and multimedia content to train tutors and staff in mentoring and competence recognition.
• Pilot testing: Implementation of the programme in 30 institutions and partner companies, training over 100 participants and awarding micro-credentials to validate their new skills.
• Dissemination and impact: Organisation of webinars and digital publications to ensure the results reach institutions and policy-makers across Europe.

Impact and expected results

WINGS aims to transform the landscape of vocational education and training in Europe:

• For institutions and companies: Improved staff capabilities and the adoption of greener and more sustainable practices.
• For students: Access to higher-quality learning and, for the first time, formal recognition of competences acquired at work.
• At a systemic level: Creation of a work-based learning model that can be replicated in any European country and stronger cooperation between educational institutions and the business sector.