The VET System, Its Subsystems and Their Links with the Labour Market: Strengths, Weaknesses and Challenges of VET in Spain

Abstract

This chapter provides the reader with the historical and political background to understand the rest of the book, and it also focuses on the key issues affecting VET in Spain in recent times while assessing the quality of VET rather positively. I explain the parallel development of three different subsystems and their approaches and efforts to reintegrate them. I also show conflicts over control upon VET governance and the role of national and regional governments as well as employers and union representatives in the design of qualifications. Transitions between education and employment, careers guidance and the connections of VET to social policies are also addressed.