The WAVE project will facilitate European-wide recognition of informal and experiential learning in aquaculture by constructing a protocol for the validation of industry-specific work experience. Its' practical relevance will be assured through working closely with employers and by seeking recognition from national qualification authorities. The main product will consist of a work experience validation protocol, validated by SME's, sectoral organisations and education and training organisations. It will be based upon prior agreement of an industry-specific, master list of work competencies in all EU languages. Once feedback from a demonstration workshop has been integrated, the protocol is to be then translated into all official EU languages and further accompanied by an on-line, multi-lingual glossary. Each partner will canvass for adoption of the protocol into existing national schemes. Interim and final outcomes will be disseminated through public websites of international organisations participating in or associated with the project, in particular: FEAP, AquaTT, AQUAMEDIA, AQUALEX & PISCESTT. Education and training bodies and national qualification agencies will be kept informed via existing education and training fora, newsletters and other industry media. By focusing on the accreditation of work-based training, often the only accessible training in the peripheral coastal areas of aquaculture, the project contributes to raising the skills and qualification profile of aquaculture and expects to foster higher rates of participation in vocational training. It will provide a useful template for other agricultural/food production sectors in peripheral areas.