The Microidea project is redefining vocational education in Europe by developing a micro-credentialing system aligned with ISO 17024 certification standards and promoting the portability of professional qualifications across borders. As a proud partner of the consortium, p-consulting contributes to this innovative initiative, which is currently being piloted in Greece, Cyprus, and Spain.
To test the methodology in real-world conditions, the project selected the role of the waiter as a pilot case. The goal? To create high-quality training material that responds to the actual needs of the hospitality sector, supporting both newcomers and experienced professionals.
The training is structured on two levels:
- Foundational content for the core occupation of a waiter
- Micro-credentials that enhance and expand the skillset with green, digital, technical, and soft skills
This approach ensures that learners build on essential competences before advancing to specialized areas, making the learning experience coherent and inclusive.
The educational design of Microidea follows European standards, ensuring clarity, validity, and cross-border recognition. Using the ESCO classification system, the development team identified all relevant skills and knowledge for the waiter role and transformed them into a structured curriculum.
- Core competences were included in the main curriculum
- Optional skills became micro-credentials
- Complementary courses were added for practical, well-rounded training
Recognizing the unique needs of each country, the project developed country-specific micro-credentials based on identified skill gaps. This ensures that the training is not only standardized but also locally relevant.
The curriculum draws on approved material from the Cyprus Pedagogical Institute, known for its reliability and use in vocational schools. To enhance learning, the content includes:
- Instructional videos for hands-on skills
- Audio recordings for foreign language practice
- Training guides for teachers and trainers
The model supports self-learning, with teachers guiding theory and trainers supervising workplace-based practice.
To support learners in certification exams, the project is developing preparation materials including theoretical questions and practical scenarios. All content will be available in Greek, Spanish, and English, ensuring accessibility across regions.
Through its involvement in Microidea, p-consulting continues to champion innovation in vocational education, helping shape a more inclusive, flexible, and future-ready workforce across Europe.
