A major European initiative is underway to better understand the working conditions, needs and challenges of vocational education and training (VET) teachers, with the launch of the European Vocational Teacher Survey (EVTS).
The survey, coordinated by the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop), aims to give a stronger voice to teachers across Europe and provide evidence to support their professional development and improve education systems.
Focus on teachers’ role
VET teachers are seen as central to Europe’s labour market, equipping learners with practical skills and supporting economic development. However, their day‑to‑day challenges and training needs are often overlooked, a gap the new survey seeks to address.
As labour markets evolve rapidly, particularly with digital, green and inclusive transitions, teachers are required to continuously update their skills. The EVTS aims to provide comparable data across EU countries to help shape policies that support this process.
Key questions
The survey focuses on a series of key issues affecting vocational teachers, including:
- how they develop their skills and adapt to new demands
- which professional development activities are most effective
- what new competences are required in areas such as digitalisation and sustainability
- how teachers view their working conditions and career prospects
- how attractive the profession is for new entrants
Broad scope across Europe
The EVTS targets teachers in upper secondary vocational schools across more than 20 EU member states, including Cyprus. It is expected to gather responses from around 10,000 teachers through surveys and interviews, using a structured research methodology to ensure representative results.
The first findings are expected in 2027, with policymakers aiming to use the results to improve teacher support systems and strengthen vocational education across Europe.
Challenges under examination
The survey will look at several critical issues shaping the profession, including:
- Workload and shortages: Increasing administrative tasks and staff shortages can limit time for teaching and student support.
- Wellbeing: Teacher stress, motivation and job satisfaction are closely linked to student outcomes.
- Professional development: Access to continuous training and skills development remains uneven across countries.
- Resources: Availability of digital tools and modern teaching materials varies, affecting learning quality.
Supporting future education systems
Cedefop and its partners, including the European Commission and national authorities, see the survey as a key tool for addressing gaps in knowledge and improving policy decisions related to vocational education.
By collecting direct feedback from teachers, the EVTS aims to help shape more effective education strategies, improve working conditions and strengthen Europe’s ability to prepare a skilled workforce for future challenges.
Source: cedefop
