Greek Tourism Vocational Schools Designated as Experimental Training Network

The Ministry of Tourism in Greece has signed a decree establishing a nationwide network of experimental higher vocational schools for tourism (ΣΑΕΚ). All existing tourism vocational schools are now classified as experimental, including a pilot conversion in Crete.

From 20 September, electronic applications are accepted for paid apprenticeships at seven of these schools for the 2026‑27 academic year. The programs cover three high‑demand specialties – hotel front‑desk staff, culinary arts, and food‑service technicians – and are open to candidates aged 18 and over who hold a secondary school diploma. Front‑desk applicants must also demonstrate a B2 level in English, French or German. Apprentices work both in classroom settings (November‑April) and on‑the‑job at 4‑ and 5‑star hotels (May‑October), receiving a daily wage equal to 95 % of the applicable minimum wage.

The seven participating schools are located in Athens, Thessaloniki, Corfu, Heraklion, Mytilene, Patras and Rhodes, each offering the specified specialities under the dual‑training model.