The European Framework for Key Competences for Lifelong Learning, released at the end of 2006, identifies and defines the key skills that everyone needs in order to achieve employment, personal fulfilment, social inclusion and active citizenship in today's knowledge-driven world.

The framework includes competences in ‘traditional’ subjects, such as mother tongue literacy, numeracy, knowledge of foreign languages, science and IT skills. But it also covers other skills, such as learning to learn, social and civic competence, initiative-taking, entrepreneurship, cultural awareness and self-expression.

Initial education and training systems across the EU should support the development of these competences in all young people, and adult education and training need to give real opportunities for all adults to build and maintain their skills.

Documents

• Key Competences for Lifelong Learning - European Reference Framework, brochure 2008
• Recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council (December 2006) on key competences for lifelong learning