1. Lifelong Learning Programme
European Social Fund &
Lifelong Learning Programme
ESF Committee meeting
Spa, December 2010

2. Overview
Background
Current practice
Proposals post 2013

3. Background
LLP and ESF share close objectives as regards education and training issues
Two main themes: transnational mobility and transnational cooperation
EU budget mid-term review: need for synergy and avoid overlaps of EU support

4. Background (internal EAC estimate)

5. The Lifelong Learning Programme
Other, 8%
Mobility, 60%
Multilateral
projects and
networks,
15%
Partnerships
and joint
educational
projects, 17%

6. Current practice
End 2009: questionnaire to LLP Committee on use of ESF for transnational learning mobility
10/22 positive replies (7 countries no reply) :
Various target groups
Various implementation methods
Some direct supplement to LLP (LdV) mobility grants
From formal learning/training to study visits/getting to know other systems/practices
Excellence and equity

7. Use of ESF by target groups
University students in 6 countries (CZ, EE, EL, PL, RO, SK)
Trainees in initial vocational training, including apprentices in 5 countries (DE, FR, PL, RO, SK)
People in the labour market in 4 countries (DE, FR, PL, RO)
Teachers and trainers in Higher Education, vocational education and training, school education and adult learning in 5 countries (CZ, EE, PL, RO, SK)
Other types of support for transnational learning mobility in 5 countries (DE, EE, LT, PL, SK, UK) 7

8. Use of LLP management
Two countries (EE and RO) use the LLP National Agency for both LLP support and ESF
Synergies applied either to use complementary funds (Romania) or to benefit from each other programme (Estonia) 8

9. Post 2013
LLP and ESF share the EU2020 objectives as well as the flagships initiatives YoM and Agenda for new skills and Jobs:
Increased quality of transnational mobility
Increased quality of education and training systems
Better trained/skilled work force

10. LLP strong points (1) Common policy framework for lifelong learning
Existing cooperation network for implementation
Structured exchange of good practice and peer learning
Crossfertilisation of policy and practice : accelerated transfer of innovation
Well known brand names as Erasmus
Network for partner finding and quality study and placements abroad
Quality assurance and recognition/validation of knowledge, skills and competences

11. LLP strong points (2)
Simple management of mobility grants: flat rate/lump sum grants
Well functioning management structures: harmonised approach to selection, contracts, payments, controls
Sound management system relying on National Agencies, National Authorities and EC
Very few irregularities/frauds (despite > grant agreements/year)
High take-up rate of EU funds (e.g. 2009: >98% commitments at national level)

12. “Pistes” for the future
Simplification to ease complementary use of both LLP and ESF ?
Possible share of management bodies (national Agencies)
Cross fertilization on lump summ grants ?
Clearer split between the two sources of fund as regards target groups’ support to transnational mobility ? (people in the labour market? Adults ?)
Distinction between mobility grants to individuals and support to organisations/structures supporting mobility organisation? 12

13. “Pistes” for the future (limits)
LLP is a European programme, applying all accross Europe with the same rules and actions
Will ESF cover mobility in all MS ? 13