Formal training and skills development: The state of play

This chapter analyses formal training activities within small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). It is anticipated that across Europe, most new jobs will be within knowledge and other skills intensive jobs. Results of the Continuing Vocational Training Surveys over the last few years are analysed, to determine levels of participation by small, medium and large firms in training and skills development activities, and the potential effects these training programmes will have on the future competitiveness of the SMEs. Areas investigated include: initial Vocational Education and Training (VET), specifically apprenticeships; and continuing VET (primarily that financed by the workplace).From these results, policy implications are suggested, which are designed to enable SMEs to utilise the findings to develop or improve their current training regimes, and to draw the attention of government agencies to how best to positively influence these companies.