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This paper examines on-the-job learning models currently underway in the Member States of the European Union (EU). The author, from the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (CEDEFOP), argues that education must respond more effectively to the ever-changing needs of the workplace. He describes a number of innovative models such as apprenticeship systems, work placements within the school-based training system, alternating systems of training (or 'alternance'), and practice-oriented schemes. The paper then explores the development of work-linked training from various aspects including the reasons for the growth of interest in work-linked training, the influence of the EU, emerging practices, common problems, recommendations and conclusions. The author concludes that work-linked training in alternating between school and work, provides the basis for lifelong learning and should be continued throughout life. He suggests that these new EU programs, in combination with the more coherent European processes currently being developed for the assessment of learning and skill certification during work experience, have the potential to contribute to the development of new forms of work-linked training.