Through the project we aim to strengthen and promote VET in optical technology and increase the programme’s attractiveness. We want to raise vocational excellence through more precise practical work, clearer quality and safety standards, and a better link between theory and practice. At the same time, we will systematically develop giftedness through mentoring and more demanding tasks, and transfer successful approaches to other school programmes.
We applied for the project because we have noticed declining interest in the Optical Technician programme and lower learners’ entry-level competences, along with the perception that parts of the curriculum do not keep pace with the profession. Discussions with learners showed the need for more experiential learning and a stronger link to practice. Through the project, we will strengthen motivation, excellence and mentoring for gifted learners, and spread good practice to other school programmes.