Foundation · since 2002

A foundation for the systematics of VPL.

EC-VPL bridges the individual and society, learning and working.

EC-VPL studies, accumulates, and distributes information on every imaginable aspect of lifelong-learning strategies in which the systematics of Validation of Prior Learning play a structuring role. The foundation is registered in the Netherlands, with a structural staff of six and an international network of associates and partners.

History

23 years, one mission.

From a 2002 Dutch foundation to a global Biennale network — six moments that mark the trajectory.

2002

Foundation established

EC-VPL is founded as a Dutch non-profit foundation studying lifelong-learning strategies anchored in Validation of Prior Learning.

2007

VPL Biennale 2 — Rotterdam

Second Biennale produces "Managing European diversity in lifelong learning", with case studies from 11 European countries.

2011

Biennale concept formalised

Dr. Ruud Duvekot designs the recurring Biennale meeting concept that anchors the network for the following decade.

2014

The Power of VPL

EC-VPL publishes two volumes — "The Power of VPL" and "Linkages of VPL" — extending VPL into citizenship, volunteering and leisure.

2019

3rd VPL Biennale — Berlin

VPLB3 brings together policy makers, researchers and practitioners. Outputs are gathered in the 2020 volume "Making Policy Work".

2024

CAMPLUS concludes

Training delivered inside refugee camps in Kurdistan and Greece. EC-VPL closes its 21st funded project across TEMPUS, ERASMUS+, UNESCO/UIL and LLP programmes.

Team

A structural staff of six.

Backed by an international network of researchers, advisors and project partners across Europe and beyond.

RD
Dr. Ruud Duvekot

Chair · designer of the VPL Biennale concept (2011)

KS
Ir. Kees Schuur

Senior researcher

JG
John Geven

Project lead

SB
Drs. Seerp de Blauw

Senior advisor

MR
Drs. Marja Reyngoud

Programme coordinator

TS
Dr. Tijmen Schipper

Research associate

In partnership with European institutions and global networks
UNESCO/UIL
Bertelsmann Stiftung
CEDEFOP
ERASMUS+
Inholland
Universiteit Leiden
KU Leuven
Council of Europe
OECD
ILO
University of Glasgow
Frankfurt UAS

Vibe

VPL bridges the individual and society, learning and working — recognising that learning happens formally in schools, non-formally at work, and informally everywhere.

EC-VPL · Mission statement