# Vocational training growth in Spain

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/vocational-training-growth-in-spain
> Updated: 2026-09-25T13:27:46.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 3.

Vocational training (FP) in Spain has reached new historic milestones in enrollment. Following a period of growth where student numbers exceeded 1.2 million, the 2025-2026 academic year saw 1,211,062 students, a 2.5% increase from the previous year. This growth was observed across basic, intermediate, and higher levels, with specialization courses specifically rising by 17.7%.

For the 2026-2027 academic year, enrollment has climbed further to a record high of 1,248,046 students, representing a 3.1% increase from the prior year and a 57% increase over the last decade. Queen Letizia inaugurated the new school year at the IES Ribera del Tajo in Toledo, accompanied by Minister of Education, Vocational Training and Sports Milagros Tolón and Castilla-La Mancha President Emiliano García-Page.

The inauguration highlighted the integration of advanced technologies within the vocational network, specifically focusing on excellence centers specializing in Artificial Intelligence and Big Data. Showcased projects included robotics, AI development for healthcare, and administrative management simulations, utilizing specialized facilities such as data processing centers and cytodiagnosis laboratories.

The tourism and hospitality sector continues to be a primary driver for this training, supporting a workforce of approximately 3 million affiliates through technical degrees in gastronomy, tourism management, and event planning. While dual vocational training—which integrates classroom learning with workplace experience—has seen significant growth, business sector participation remains a focus for future expansion.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-25: Queen Letizia inaugurates vocational training year amid record enrollment

Queen Letizia inaugurated the 2026-2027 vocational training year in Spain, noting a record 1.24 million students enrolled, a 3.1% increase from the previous year.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/queen-letizia-inaugurates-vocational-training-year-amid-record-enrollment

### 2026-09-23: Spain Vocational Training enrollment reaches historic high

Spain's Vocational Training (FP) has reached a record 1.2 million students for the 2025-2026 course, driven by sector demands like tourism and hospitality.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/spain-vocational-training-enrollment-reaches-historic-high

### 2026-09-15: Pedro Sánchez defends expansion of vocational training in Spain

Spanish PM Pedro Sánchez reports a 46% increase in vocational training enrollment since 2018, noting record-high graduation rates and the need to expand dual training through business involvement.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pedro-snchez-defends-growth-of-vocational-training-in-spain

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Cite as: Vocational training growth in Spain. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/vocational-training-growth-in-spain