STARS is the first Erasmus+ Centre of Vocational Excellence (CoVE) in sport. The project aims to promote excellence in vocational training in the sports sector, both at the regional and European level, by bringing together a wide range of stakeholders (from sports professionals to industry and VET representatives) to create a European framework that supports sports professionals throughout their careers.


The STARS mission is to establish a sustainable and inclusive sports sector that promotes vocational training and the wide variety of professions within it. The project contributes to the continuous upskilling and reskilling of sports professionals and athletes by identifying specific skill gaps and providing high-quality training aligned with job-related key competences and the current needs of the sector. Innovation in teaching methods is therefore at the heart of the project, enhancing the validation of prior and informal skills as well as dual careers opportunities for athletes.
Spanning four countries – France, Germany, Greece, and Spain – the STARS project brings together a rich and diverse consortium of 17 partners, covering a broad range of expertise. The consortium is made up of 4 ministries and public institutions, 6 educational providers, 2 umbrella organisations, 3 sports federations and associations, and 2 expert enterprises.
Together, we are working to shape the future of sports education and to promote a healthier, more inclusive sports community, both at national and European level.

- Enhancing vocational training to meet the unique needs of the sports sector.
- Promoting inclusion, equality and diversity by designing inclusive education models and fostering equal access for all.
- Supporting dual careers for athletes, combining sports with education and career transition programmes.
- Enhancing employment opportunities through career guidance and validation of prior learning.

