A Preview on How to Select and Connect Criteria with Real-World Examples
The NEB VET Label—developed within the Erasmus+ project New European Bauhaus Label for VET—is a pioneering initiative that introduces a structured and values-driven approach to improving vocational education and training (VET) across Europe. Rooted in the New European Bauhaus (NEB) principles—sustainability, inclusion, and aesthetics—the project seeks to provide VET centres with tools and criteria to align their practices with these transformative values.
But how do you select the right values-based criteria for a VET centre? And more importantly, how can you effectively link them to real-world best practices?
This article offers a practical preview of how to approach both questions.
Understanding the NEB Values in a VET Context
Before selecting criteria or identifying best practices, it’s essential to clearly understand what the NEB values mean for vocational education:
– Sustainability: Integrating green skills, circular economy concepts, and eco-conscious operations.
– Inclusion: Ensuring equal access, participation, and benefit for learners of all backgrounds.
– Aesthetics: Creating pleasant, inspiring, and human-centered learning environments that foster well-being.
These values aren’t isolated principles—they work best when implemented in harmony, creating holistic, learner-centered ecosystems.
Step 1: Define Your Values-Based Assessment Criteria
The NEB VET Label uses a structured assessment framework, co-created through European partnerships, to guide VET providers. While the full list of criteria is still being piloted, they generally fall under three main clusters:
- Strategic Commitment
Does the institution have sustainability and inclusivity embedded in its mission and strategy? - Learning Environment & Curriculum
Are green and digital skills incorporated into the curriculum?
Are learning spaces inclusive, accessible, and aesthetically engaging? - Community & Stakeholder Engagement
Is there active collaboration with local communities, businesses, and underrepresented groups?
Are learners empowered to participate in shaping their educational experience?
Each criterion should be measurable or demonstrable through qualitative or quantitative indicators.
| Criteria | Example Best Practice |
| Sustainability in curriculum | A VET centre that integrates green construction modules in carpentry and design programs. |
| Inclusive access | A school offering tailored support for refugees, including language classes and mentoring. |
| Aesthetic learning space | A redesigned workshop space that includes natural light, student artwork, and ergonomic furniture. |
| Community collaboration | Partnering with local green businesses to offer internships and joint projects. |
| Digital green toolkits | Use of online platforms teaching climate-smart practices using real-time data and virtual simulations. |
Step 3: Connect Criteria with Practices Using Storytelling
Criteria gain real power when brought to life with narrative. During the NEB VET Label pilot phase, participating institutions will be encouraged to:
- Present short case studies showing how criteria are fulfilled.
- Use before/after comparisons to highlight transformation.
- Include learner testimonials that reflect lived impact.
This storytelling not only supports the assessment process but also promotes peer learning across the European network.
Why This Matters
The NEB VET Label isn’t just another certification. It’s a catalyst for change—encouraging VET centres to become sustainability champions, inclusive learning spaces, and attractive destinations for the next generation of learners.
By selecting the right criteria and connecting them to meaningful, values-driven practices, VET centres can:
- Achieve international recognition;
- Build trust with stakeholders;
- Create real, lasting social impact.
Coming Soon: A Digital Tool and Personalized Guidebook
As part of the NEB VET Label project, a digital tool and personalised guidebook are in development. These will offer:
- Self-assessment capabilities
- Curated best practice libraries
- Step-by-step improvement guides tailored to each institution
Stay tuned for the pilot phase and opportunities to join the NEB VET community.
Final Thoughts
The future of VET is not only about what we teach but how and why we teach it. With the NEB VET Label, we have the opportunity to reshape vocational education into a vehicle for a more sustainable, inclusive, and beautiful Europe.
