Sustainability skills for HORECA

<< Background >>This project focuses on building sustainability skills in the HoReCa (Hotel, Restaurant, Catering) sector through cooperation partnerships in vocational education and training.The project addresses the growing need for vocational education and training (VET) that focuses on sustainable practices within the hospitality and catering sector. With the rising demand for green skills, it is essential to equip VET students with the necessary knowledge and competencies to contribute to sustainability initiatives. By integrating sustainability-focused curricula, hands-on training, and collaboration between VET providers and HoReCa sector professionals, the project seeks to prepare the next generation of hospitality professionals better to meet environmental challenges, drive innovation, and support the transition toward a more sustainable future.<< Objectives >>The project aimed to promote sustainability education in vocational training for the HoReCa sector by identifying key sustainability action areas and related skills requirements. It developed teaching and learning materials in line with sector needs and enhanced the capacity of VET teachers to teach sustainability effectively. The project aimed to improve students' understanding of sustainable work culture, while seeking to ensure alignment between VET programmes and labour market needs. A key outcome is the Aim2Sustain online learning platform, which provides tailor-made teaching and learning materials with Open Educational Resources (OER) for wider access to sustainability-related learning materials. In addition, the Guidelines for Sustainability as a Competence in HoReCa provide a structured framework to support educators and practitioners in embedding sustainability in education and practice. << Implementation >>The project was implemented through a series of structured activities, ensuring alignment with its objectives.- Conducted a needs analysis involving partner national HoReCa representatives and VET staff to gather data on current sustainability practices, skills requirements and gaps in education. The survey was developed based on the elements of GreenComp, which served as the foundation for identifying research questions. This baseline research aimed to identify specific needs and expectations for sustainability competence within the sector.- Developed the Guidelines for Sustainability as a Competence in HoReCa, comprehensive document defining sustainability competencies, action areas and practical criteria.- Organised three transnational workshops aimed at building the capacity of project partners in sustainability issues to effectively integrate sustainability topics in education.- Developed Aim2Sustain online learning platform which hosts six sustainability-related modules in eight languages supplemented with OERs. - Organised national multiplier events and a transnational conference to disseminate project results, engage stakeholders and raise awareness of sustainability education in the HoReCa sector. << Results >>The project successfully developed key outputs to enhance sustainability education in the HoReCa sector. The Guidelines for Sustainability as a Competence in HoReCa provide a structured framework for integrating sustainability into VET curricula. The Aim2Sustain Online Learning Platform offers Open Educational Resources (OERs) with interactive learning materials for students, teachers, and HoReCa professionals. Research and stakeholder survey identified sustainability skills gaps, shaping customized training materials for VET educators. Capacity-building workshops strengthened teachers’ competencies, ensuring effective sustainability education delivery. Dissemination activities engaged stakeholders, fostering collaboration between VET providers and the HoReCa sector. The project exceeded expectations by expanding digital learning opportunities and promoting sustainability as a core competence in vocational training. These results will have a lasting impact, supporting the transition to a more sustainable HoReCa future.