Work Package 7:  Implementation of Training and Mobility Programmes and Skills Recognition

WP7 is closely linked to the broader objectives of the project, particularly in ensuring the quality, recognition, and implementation of training and mobility programmes for railway professionals, students, and apprentices. This work package contributes to the alignment of railway education and training with European policies on skills development, workforce mobility, and employability, reinforcing the connection with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF), the European Credit system for Vocational Education and Training (ECVET), and the European Quality Assurance in Vocational Education and Training (EQAVET). It aims to enhance the attractiveness and effectiveness of railway training while ensuring long-term career progression and cross-border recognition of skills and certifications. The work in this package is divided into several key activities: 

The first area of work focuses on ensuring alignment with ECVET and EQAVET guidelines (Task 7.1, led by CESI). This involves a detailed analysis of these European frameworks, followed by a cross-comparison of the training and mobility programmes with their principles and indicators. The objective is to identify specific actions and initiatives that maximise alignment with EU standards, ensuring that railway training adheres to the highest quality benchmarks. 

A second area of work (Task 7.2, led by UASFHE) is dedicated to the validation and certification of training programmes across different EQF levels. A systematic review is carried out to analyse best practices in validation and certification from other transport sectors, such as shipping and aviation. This research informs the adaptation of relevant methods for the rail sector, with tailored approaches for vocational education at lower EQF levels and professional training at higher education levels. The ultimate goal is to develop a structured and harmonised certification framework that facilitates skills recognition across Europe. 

The third key activity (Task 7.3, led by CESI) involves the implementation and monitoring of training and mobility programmes for railway professionals. This includes the planning and organization of training sessions, practical exercises, technical visits, and international mobility experiences. The effectiveness of these programmes is continuously assessed through periodic evaluations, which examine the quality of lectures, attendance rates, learning outcomes, and overall impact. This feedback loop ensures that training programmes evolve in response to industry needs while maintaining alignment with European guidelines. 

Similarly, a parallel activity (Task 7.4, led by UNIROMA1) is dedicated to the implementation and monitoring of academic training and mobility programmes for students and apprentices. The structure mirrors that of professional training, with a focus on educational curricula, technical visits, and international exchanges. Continuous assessment mechanisms are embedded into the program to refine content and organizational aspects based on real-time feedback and performance indicators. 

The final component of this work package is the ongoing assessment of program quality, content harmonization, and career impact (Task 7.5, led by UB). Short-term evaluations focus on immediate adjustments and improvements, while medium-to-long-term assessments track the career trajectories of trained professionals, students, and apprentices.