Eureka! Institutional Repository

Ιn the European Union (EU) and also in Greece, we observe that Vocational Education and Training (VET) is being strengthened through apprenticeship programs that link education to work. This thesis explores EU’s strategic objectives for VET and presents Greece's apprenticeship policy according to the National Strategic Framework for upgrading VET, the institutional framework and the way of implementing and operating the "Apprenticeship Class" at Vocational High School (EPAL). In addition, the implemented phases of Apprenticeship at EPALs are reviewed and evaluated. The views of teachers working at EPALs concerning the institution of apprenticeships, apprenticeship training, the implementation and organization of apprenticeships by the Ministry of Education at EPAL are explored as well, through qualitative research. Finally, this thesis identifies the strengths and weaknesses of its implementation so far and suggests solutions for improving the Apprenticeships institution.