This is how Yrkesgymnasiet in Gävle achieves a graduation rate of 100%

The apprenticeship students at Yrkesgymnasiet are leaders in Sweden regarding goal achievement for vocational high school programs, with 9 out of 10 finding employment shortly after graduation. This article is part of a series on schools’ successes and the efforts behind them.

At Yrkesgymnasiet Gävle, students can train to become electricians, hairdressers, construction workers, painters, and nursing assistants, among other professions. With a 100% graduation rate, the school works diligently with APL (work-based learning) coordinators to find the right placement for each student

– We work extensively with matching. We have an established network with our internship placements that welcome students from us each year. We have a good understanding of the qualities they are looking for in our students. Based on this, mentors get to know their students, and together with our skilled internship coordinator, we match companies with the right student to achieve the best possible combination, says Linda Swedén.

Almost all students find jobs after graduation, most often at their placement sites.

– We usually tell our new first-year students that they now have a three-year probationary period where they can make mistakes, learn, and show their commitment. We try, whenever possible, to place our students in workplaces where they have a chance for employment during the final term so they can seamlessly transition into work after graduation, says Linda Swedén.

How do you work to find good placements?

– Communication and transparency. We want all our students to feel successful and receive the best education possible, while also ensuring that all our partner companies feel they are doing a good job and are appreciated — while also having the opportunity to shape their potential future workforce. With this mindset, it’s essential to maintain close relationships with companies, be clear about expectations, and keep open lines of communication. We must be transparent about which student they are receiving, any adjustments the student might need, and be responsive if our matching doesn’t work out. And of course, that does happen occasionally, says Linda Swedén, adding:

– It’s tough to pursue an apprenticeship; we set high expectations for the young people, who are thrust into the real world at just 16 years old. We also set high standards for our internship placements; it takes a lot to train and shape an uncertain young person – but in most cases, it becomes a rewarding journey for both partners.