Skolverket has been tasked by the government to investigate how the quality of workplace-based learning (APL) can be strengthened. The review, presented in March 2026, proposes mandatory supervisor training, clearer assessment criteria and stricter oversight. If the proposals become reality, it would be the biggest change to the APL system in over ten years.
APL quality has long varied greatly between schools and regions. The Swedish Schools Inspectorate's reviews have repeatedly shown that students in some programs receive inadequate supervision, irrelevant tasks and minimal follow-up. The new proposal addresses these shortcomings directly.
What the proposal contains#
Mandatory supervisor training#
Today Skolverket recommends supervisor training – but it's not mandatory. The proposal means all supervisors hosting APL students must have completed basic training. The school authority is responsible for providing it.
Clearer assessment criteria#
The supervisor should assess the student against the same criteria the school uses. This requires the school to clearly communicate what the student should learn – and the supervisor to understand what they're assessing.
Stricter oversight#
The Schools Inspectorate is proposed to receive expanded powers to review APL quality, including workplace visits during ongoing internship periods.
Documentation requirements#
Schools must document matching, supervisor contact and any problems during the APL period. This also applies to placement changes and the reason for the change.
Student's right to change placement#
Students experiencing serious deficiencies in supervision or work environment should have the right to change placement without affecting their ability to complete the course.
What it means for schools#
Schools need to:
- expand their supervisor training programs
- allocate resources for APL coordination
- document the internship process more carefully
- ensure all placements meet minimum requirements
Many schools already do much of this. But for those that don't, the proposal represents a clear raising of the bar.
What it means for companies#
Companies hosting APL students can expect:
- requirements for the supervisor to complete training
- clearer information from the school about what the student should learn
- possibly more school visits during the internship period
- better-prepared students
For companies with experienced supervisors and good routines, little changes. But for workplaces that have treated internships as an informal effort, adaptation may be needed.
Reactions from the sector#
Swedish Teachers' Union welcomes the proposal but emphasizes that it requires resources – without funding it becomes a paper product.
Byggföretagen (construction industry association) supports mandatory supervisor training but warns that smaller companies may withdraw if complexity increases.
Swedish Student Unions views the student's right to change placement and stronger documentation requirements positively.
Timeline#
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| March 2026 | Investigation proposal presented |
| May–September 2026 | Consultation period |
| Spring 2027 | Possible government bill |
| Autumn term 2027 | Possible effective date |
The proposal is in the consultation phase. This means no changes apply yet – but schools and companies are wise to prepare now.
Frequently asked questions#
Does the proposal apply only to upper secondary?#
The investigation focuses on upper secondary APL. But the principles could affect higher vocational education and adult education in the longer term.
Will supervisor training become fully mandatory?#
The proposal applies to new supervisors. Experienced supervisors may need supplementary training, but details are under consultation.
Who pays for supervisor training?#
The proposal places responsibility on the school authority. How funding works is one of the major questions in the consultation round.
Are well-functioning placements affected?#
Not significantly. The proposal targets systemic deficiencies, not high-quality workplaces.
Conclusion#
The proposal for stricter APL requirements is welcome. Internship quality in Sweden has been uneven for too long. But legislation without resources risks becoming symbolic politics. What matters is that schools get the time and tools to implement the changes – and that companies aren't scared off but invited in.
Sources#
- Government Offices of Sweden – assignment to Skolverket on APL quality, 2025
- Swedish Schools Inspectorate – quality review of APL, latest report
- Skolverket – consultation proposal March 2026
