ELGPN network study visit – 15 June 2009 – page 1 Accreditation of prior experiential learning (APEL): Key features of the French system

ELGPN network study visit – 15 June 2009 – page 2 APEL: definition A way of validating non-formal and informal learning (see CEDEFOP definition of these concepts) Validation takes the form of certification (certification = process of formally validating knowledge and/or competences, following a standard assessment procedure, resulting in the issuance of a certificate/diploma) A specific certification process... (the validation process differs from the post-training one)... for the same result than initial or continuing education/training (the certification body issues the same certificate/diploma than that which is awarded to people who have graduated from initial education or continuing training)

ELGPN network study visit – 15 June 2009 – page 3 The aims of APEL The founding rationale : 30% of adults do not have any diploma but have experience The economy needs identified skilled workers The lack of validated qualification jeopardises professional evolution Not everyone can/wants to access continuing training  Hence, experienced workers should be given a chance to obtain a diploma on the sole basis of their experience-acquired knowledge and competences APEL generates validated qualifications, but also: develops analytical skills, as it implies reflection upon one’s situation; fosters self-confidence and willingness to face new challenges.

ELGPN network study visit – 15 June 2009 – page 4 A short history of APEL in France 1985: a decree allows the validation of experience-acquired skills and competences in order to enter a higher education curriculum 1992: creation of the VPS scheme (validation of professional skills): part of a diploma can be obtained on the sole basis of experience- acquired skills 2002: “Social modernisation Act” creates: a right for any individual with three-year experience to engage in the APEL process; a National list of professional certificates (NLPC)

ELGPN network study visit – 15 June 2009 – page 5 The NLPC: a tool for APEL, and more Why such a list? Because, amongst the large number of certificates/diplomas, users (i.e. individuals and employers) and financers must identify those which are really useful. Only NLPC-registered certificates are eligible to the official APEL process. Conversely, only APEL-accessible certificates are registered What is the registration process? State-issued certificates (vocational education diplomas, university degrees, Minstry of Employment ‘professional titles’...) are registered by law Other certificates must come under multi-criteria scrutiny.

ELGPN network study visit – 15 June 2009 – page 6 The 4 stages of the APEL process 1.Information and guidance What? Information about the aims of APEL and the process to follow; help in choosing the target certificate, which must be consistent with both the experience and project of the individual Who? Certification bodies, Region-funded guidance centres (800 PRCs)... 2.Filling the #1 booklet What? Providing the certification body with information that will determine eligibility of application (mainly proving the 3-year experience in the field) Who? The individual (can be assisted in some cases by an accompaniment structure)

ELGPN network study visit – 15 June 2009 – page 7 The 4 stages of the APEL process 3.Filling the #2 booklet What? After the application is acknowledged as eligible, the candidate must elaborate a comprehensive file describing his professional occupations, skills and competences. The law provides that an employed person can benefit from a day off so as to prepare this document. Who? The individual can be accompanied in certain cases (Ministry of Employment certificates, job seekers in some cases, regional schemes...). 4.Final validation by jury What? In some cases, this step merely consists in an interview based on the #2 booklet. In other cases, this step includes a work-situation assessment. Who? The certification body (issuing authority)

ELGPN network study visit – 15 June 2009 – page 8 Key figures individuals are welcomed each year in APEL guidance centres are deemed eligible access the final validation stage. Among them: 50% obtain the full certificate/diploma 35% obtain a part of certificate 15% fail 70% of candidates are women 70% of candidates are employed / 30% are job seekers 70% seek a 1 st level qualification

ELGPN network study visit – 15 June 2009 – page 9 Major challenges Develop information/guidance (see next slide) Shorten the process (9 months on average) Generalise accompaniment throughout the process Involve companies and social partners Involve the employment public service (Pôle Emploi) Finance juries better Simplify of the ‘certification landscape’ and increase its coherence

ELGPN network study visit – 15 June 2009 – page 10 Focus: APEL information and guidance Not enough candidates in comparison with the potential (5M) Multiple actors, including competent specialists but not always co-ordinated First-level info/guidance services not always APEL-prone Low visibility in Government communication  Need for better regional co-ordination, better appropriation of APEL by 1 st level guidance services, frequent campaigns in the media and the improvement of the dedicated website (

ELGPN network study visit – 15 June 2009 – page 11 Thank you for your attention