EFT project is designed to support Forestry VET in improving training delivery. It implements a two-pronged approach of improving forestry training and guaranteeing a level of excellence. The objectives of the project were to: - Identify and compile best practices implemented in European Forestry VET - To elaborate a Quality Standard for European Forestry VET - To develop a self-evaluation scorecard for Forestry VET on the basis of the EFT Standard The project has focused on 7 essential dimensions of Forestry VET: management, safety and security, material resources, human resources, pedagogical practices, environmental practices, cooperation and promotion. Furthermore, specific attention has been paid to inclusion, gender equality, well-being fo learners and staff, and mitigating environmental footprint.
By disseminating knowledge and values, Forestry VET is able to have a direct impact on those in the forest who will be involved in the changes to come. European Forestry VET are not perfectly adapted to the needs and realities of the economic and social dynamics as well as the requirements linked to the environmental challenges of the European forestry sector. Forestry professionals have difficulties in recruiting a workforce that is too small and insufficiently qualified, particularly in the fields of safety and sustainable forest management. Training funders need to optimise their efforts to concentrate on training that is best suited to contribute to socioeconomic dynamics in the context of sustainable development. As a tool for disseminating know-how, values and ideas, these centres, which are currently deficient, have a lot of room for improvement. The Elite Forest Training project (EFT) aimed at elaborating methodological framework and tools for self-evaluation, identification of strengths and weaknesses, and eventually engagement in a continuous improvement process.