In Finland, vocational education and training (VET) students are increasingly benefiting from international learning experiences through the Erasmus+ KA1 programme. At Samiedu Vocational College, we actively use the programme to offer our students opportunities to study and train abroad, helping them develop valuable international skills.
A First Step Abroad for Many Students
For many vocational students, an Erasmus+ mobility period is their first time travelling abroad. This experience helps them gain confidence, learn about new cultures, and improve their professional skills in an international environment. International experience is an asset in today’s job market, and Erasmus+ makes it possible for every student to gain it—without financial barriers.
Inclusive and Accessible for All
One of the strengths of Erasmus+ KA1 is that in most cases it covers all costs, so students do not need to worry about travel or accommodation expenses. At Samiedu, we ensure that every student who is interested and has the capacity has the opportunity to participate.
We offer:
- Individual student exchanges (1–12 months) – part of vocational studies
- Short group exchanges (1-week trips) – a new Erasmus+ KA1 feature, ideal for younger students
International Skills also for Teachers
Erasmus+ KA1 is not just for students—teachers also have the opportunity to travel abroad through benchmarking trips. These visits allow teachers to see how vocational education works in different countries, exchange best practices, and bring back valuable knowledge to improve teaching methods. These weeks are often mentioned as the best weeks of the year.
Aligned with Erasmus+ Goals
The Erasmus+ programme is based on these key priorities
- Inclusion and diversity – equal opportunities for all students
- Digital transformation – enhancing digital learning and skills
- Sustainability – promoting environmentally responsible mobility
- Active citizenship – preparing students for participation in society
In Finland, approximately 25,963 students participated in Erasmus+ European mobility between 2014 and 2020. Across Europe, the Erasmus+ programme continues to grow, with a €4.5 billion budget allocated in 2023 for 32,000 projects involving 84,000 organisations. erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu
The most popular destination countries for Erasmus+ participants include Spain, Germany and France, while countries like Germany, France, and Italy are among the top sending countries.
