This session brings together a series of approaches to ensuring that vocational education and training (VET) partnerships are innovative and sustainable. The presenters offer a wide variety of experience gained through working in partnership in an international context. In addition, a VET colleges association provides an overarching view on how international partnerships can be used in a new and innovative way.

The presenters will outline obstacles to be overcome in pursuit of sustainable partnership models. This includes setting challenging but realistic objectives for partnership activity. Examples of different approaches to be illustrated include: a tripartite partnership to support the establishment of new vocational institutions and programmes; a new approach which could use international peer partnerships to extend the learning community across the globe; and an example of a successful transnational VET partnership involving multiple stakeholders.

The session will conclude with a debate on different ways of bringing innovation and sustainability to VET international partnerships. What are the main challenges to achieving sustainable, innovative and effective partnerships? What are the new ways of working in transnational partnership? What does the future hold for international partnership working?