The project conception arises directly from the fact that the Cultural Learning Sector is a largely unmapped and un networked, despite the fact that the Creative and Cultural Industries are a major European employment sector. Therefore the creation of a European VET Cultural Learning Network that responds to EU Policy challenges, the rationale of LLP and LdV, partners’ priorities and sectoral needs, is a logical solution. The rationale for the European Cultural Learning Network Project is threefold: -To increase the profile and connectedness of the sector -To support the sectoral VET needs -To create the vehicles by which to achieve the above. The Network partners will approach the project in progressive stages, which involve: -Researching the sectoral contexts in each of the partners countries -Mapping & identifying new sectoral organisations and stakeholders-Developing training curricula in response to identified VET needs -Testing & honing the training materials for sectoral dissemination -Exploring the options for certification of a new professional qualification -Undertaking a feasibility study to inform the creation of a new European Association -Launching the European Association for Cultural Learning (EACL), which is disseminated and underpinned by an Observatory (online multi-media platform).The Association (EACL) as the legacy of the project will offer cultural learning organisations & stakeholders, a hub for resources, exchange, sharing information & and good practice. Cultural Learning is highly effective at generating ‘New Skills for New Jobs’ (EU Initiative 2008) that is vital to meeting European skills requirements. Therefore the Network will will impact upon the VET aspects of training Cultural Learning Practitioners (CLPs) to embed transferable skills in practice, and increase VET tools and resources to support the profession through a new EACL (evidenced by membership numbers).