European EuroApprentices Network

The EuroApprentices initiative is a bottom-up initiative with two main goals: It aims to raise the visibility of learning mobility in vocational education and training (VET) and to strengthen the social and civic engagement of young people while promoting European values.

At its core are former Erasmus+ participants who now act as ambassadors. Through their personal and authentic perspectives, they showcase the benefits of international experiences and inspire others to follow similar paths.

Thanks to a strong alumni community, the initiative offers insightful stories of personal development and highlights the long-term impact of Erasmus+ in the VET sector.

In light of growing far-right political movements in Europe and declining participation in democratic life, it is becoming increasingly important to inspire young Europeans to engage in civil society and embrace shared European values.

The Erasmus+ Ambassadors in VET – the EuroApprentices – make a meaningful contribution to this effort. By sharing their own experiences abroad, they motivate other apprentices to take part in Erasmus+ mobilities.

The initiative pursues several key objectives:

• Promoting mobility in vocational education and training
• Enhancing the visibility and impact of international mobility experiences
• Encouraging participation in democratic life
• Fostering inclusion, diversity, and equal opportunities
• Promoting and representing
  shared European values
   

EuroApprentices act as authentic voices of their generation. Their commitment extends beyond the Erasmus+ programme – they advocate for a solidary, fair, and inclusive Europe.

A special focus is placed on including organisations and participants with fewer opportunities. The initiative brings together young people from diverse social, cultural, and educational backgrounds, making it a living example of Europe’s diversity.

Currently, 12 countries are part of the EuroApprentices network (see contacts). The National Agencies play a key role in implementing the initiative. They:

• recruit and train apprentices to serve as Erasmus+ Ambassadors
• coordinate national activities
• organise the annual international EuroApprentices meeting, hosted on a rotating basis

This transnational network offers space for exchange, cooperation, and shared European experiences – strengthening both the cohesion and impact of the initiative across borders.

EuroApprentices are active on social media, where they share their Erasmus+ experiences and inspire other apprentices to take part in mobility. Through personal stories and real-life insights, they make learning mobility relatable and motivating.

They are also invited by companies, vocational schools, and training centres to speak about their time abroad and share their perspectives directly with peers.

In addition, they organise local and regional activities – such as information sessions, school visits or networking events – to promote Erasmus+ in VET and bring the European idea to life in their communities.

At the European level, EuroApprentices represent their experiences at international events – such as the European Youth Event – showing how vocational education can cross borders and connect people.