Highlights from the ninth ASEE Breakfast Meeting
What should ASEE focus on next year? At our ninth Breakfast Meeting, we put that question to our members and asked them to help shape our 2027 programme. The ideas came from across Europe, and they will guide what we offer in the months ahead.
What we heard
- Smoother transitions from school to work. In some countries, young people with learning disabilities stay in education until their mid-twenties, which can delay their path to employment. Members called for more awareness among educators and for engaging parents earlier.
- Better evidence. Members asked for stronger research on the value of Supported Employment, including its return on investment for governments and society. They also stressed that studies should reflect what supported employment truly is, and not label any employment programme as such.
- Fresh language. Supported Employment has been in Europe for more than 30 years. Some members felt it is time to revisit the terminology, so that it reflects people choosing their own path.
- A stronger case for funding. Members shared concerns about funding cuts across Europe. One suggestion was to show governments the benefits through evidence, instead of simply asking for more money.
- Learning from each other. Members would like sessions that show how Supported Employment works in specific countries, and support for countries that are just starting.
- Real-life complexity. Job coaches support people facing caring responsibilities, housing insecurity or mental health needs. Sharing experience on these cases would help practitioners.
- New pathways. There is interest in social enterprises as routes into employment.
What comes next
We are planning to move from breakfast seminars to a lunch-and-learn format, and we are asking members to vote on the best day and time. Country spotlight sessions linked to the European guidelines are one of the ideas we will explore.