The Art of Curriculum Development – Inspiration from Switzerland

Secondary vocational schools prepare students for the performance of occupations and professional activities. The key document that defines what, why, and to what extent teaching should take place at school, as well as the learning outcomes to be achieved, is the educational programme – in other words, the curriculum. As occupations change – particularly in response to labour market needs – the curriculum must naturally adapt and evolve as well. A well-designed and regularly updated curriculum enhances the ability of the education system to respond flexibly to changing labour market demands and to prepare sought-after professionals.

As part of the project “Improving Quality and Attractiveness of Vocational Education and Training (VET) towards Labour Market Needs,” a workshop entitled “Modernisation of Educational Content (Curriculum)” was held in Bratislava on 4 February 2026. Experts from the Swiss Federal University for Vocational Education and Training (SFUVET) presented the Swiss system of developing, revising and updating of occupations, the key stakeholders involved in the process, as well as the development of quality assurance. The Swiss model of dual education is widely regarded as successful and effective on a global scale and represents a significant source of inspiration for Slovakia.

Serge Chobaz from SFUVET, one of the workshop lecturers, shared further insights in an interview with colleagues from the State Institute of Vocational Education. You can read the full interview here.