Vocational training in Europe varies according to country. For the most part, however, vocational training in Europe is more deeply established in the culture and serves a higher percentage of the population than do similar services in the United States. Education is routinely divided into academic and vocational branches around the mid-teenage years in most countries' schools. This division is conducted in a variety of ways. Depending upon the particular country, students may voluntarily chose their type of continuing educations, be divided according to one or more examinations or a combination of the two.
The degree of student participation in vocational training in Europe also depends upon the specific country as well as the regional area of a student's country. Swedish, Germanic and English educational systems all have similar kinds of vocational training. Some areas have well-organized systems that involve the countries' state governments all the way down to the local municipalities that particular vocational schools serve. Private business is also a well-organized and highly involved partner in these ventures. Most types of vocational training in Europe share the same funding and school efficiency woes.
Scandinavian countries — Sweden, Finland and Norway — share a similar system of vocational training. Following completion of a lower secondary program, students enter an upper secondary program that is either academic or vocational in emphasis. Vocational programs generally require two years of schooling with an emphasis on the career sought. A student then spends two years of supervised apprenticeship in a company affiliated with the school as a vocational partner. Completion of an additional year of education allows a willing student the opportunity to begin university studies, if desired.
One of the most highly organized systems of vocational training in Europe is found in the Germanic countries. Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein provide a vocational training and apprentice program that serves over 66 percent of teenagers and young adults. Statistics indicate that over half of those age 21 or younger have completed an apprenticeship. Private companies — except for those that are very small — are required to offer apprenticeships. The vocational training requirements in the Germanic countries are similar enough to allow for vocational credit transfer between these countries.
In general, the countries of the United Kingdom have some of the smallest and least organized systems of vocational training in Europe. Some governmental programs have been introduced with the goal of increasing the number of apprentices. Recent university tuition increases may also help boost the number of students participating in vocational training.