Практическото обучение в реална работна среда – предпоставка за качествено професионално образование (на основата на опит в практическото обучение по професия „Ресторантьор“)

One of the 9 priority areas for development in The Strategic Framework for the Development of Education, Training and Learning in the Republic of Bulgaria (2021-2030) is the realization of the professions of the present and the future. This meets the stated intention to expand professional education and training, which corresponds to the European educational policies related to the growing importance of digitalization and technology, the transition to green economy and sustainable development, and the need for consistent action to promote career guidance, professional development, and lifelong learning. Vocational Secondary School of Economics and Tourism “Prof. D-r Assen Zlatarov” – Petrich, is a well-established vocational school, which strives to implement the National and European policies in the field of education, by providing professional education and training that corresponds to the economic challenges and the labour market dynamics. The emphasis is put on the transfer of knowledge and skills from the classrooms to the real work environment, the formation of competencies and the development of professional skills. The practical application of the studied content and the use of active learning methods are some of the strategic goals of the school.They are implemented by strengthening practical training in a real work environment, including work on projects with a focus on professional education. The article presents the experience in the additional practical training of our students in the profession “Restaurateur”, which is a prerequisite for improving the quality of professional education and training in Vocational Secondary School of Economics and Tourism “Prof. Dr. Assen Zlatarov”.