Background To improve and develop the field of skin care at Rud High School, we have wanted to find a partner school outside of Norway. York College seemed as a natural choice, as they already successfully work with other Norwegian schools and have the necessary expertise to satisfy the requirements of the Norwegian authorities. We believe that studying at a foreign school with different methods, living in homestay families and getting to know new people will have a huge, positive impact on young vocational students. To strengthen the development of the skills and continues development of competence and quality, it is necessary to strengthen the cooperation with other countries and EU. Representatives from Rud High School have visited York College on a number of occasions. We have had with us groups of students to enable them to take part in the study of Skin Care for a few days at a time. This has involved them working side by side with local students both in practical and theoretical classes. They have also met and dealt with members of the public who come in to college for treatment from students under guidance. The goal of the project is that students and teachers from Rud High School gain insight into how other schools facilitate a training in the discipline of Skin Care, while the students have the opportunity to learn other methods of learning and other methods and types of therapy than we have the opportunity to teach and practice at our school. There are a larger number of students at York College, more teachers with expertise in the field, and smaller classes where the teacher has the opportunity to provide individual guidance. An English language based collaboration with a UK college like York also gives our pupils and teachers the chance to acquire experience in working with students from many other countries all over the world. This will give the students a broader understanding of culture across national boundaries. Rud High School aims to offer this program to four students each year who complete their first year in the field of Health and Social Care at first year level (VG1). The intention is that students from all over the County of Akershus seeking this opportunity can apply to Rud do a year in York. Suggested Plan of Action Students from Rud High School will be integrated into classes with other local students. This includes the teaching of theory and involves taking modular exams for each subject on a par with local students. Digital tools are being used in the classrooms teaching and in connection with projects and exams. After all modules are passed, the students take an interdisciplinary examination which will be conducted in the same manner as in Norway. Students also participate in practical work where they conduct subject-related treatments on students and clients. In addition to the program at York College, students also participate in trade shows in the UK that help them to keep up to date on the latest research and innovations in the field. It is considered important to preserve quality improvements, new discoveries and development and stimulate entrepreneurial skills. Teachers from Rud High School will visit York College several times a year to monitor their students and to lay the ground for further cooperation and development of the project. Trips are organized and are designed to give students a broader picture of modern society, including cultural and social developments, and an understanding of historical background. Expected Results The skills and knowledge acquired through this year will give students the opportunity to continue in their final year (VG3) at Rud High School. The study year abroad will have given them insights into another culture and notably into different styles of teaching and learning and sustainability. Their ability to communicate in English will have been considerably improved, providing them with a broader base both professionally, but also in general social and cross-cultural terms. Potential long-term plans Recruitment to professions in the field of Health and Social Care in Norway is declining, while the need in the community continues to increase. We hope that the program we are developing may increase the recruitment of Skin Care students. In addition we believe that this program can facilitate a lasting partnership between the two educational institutions concerned. This in turn may also provide an example for other vocational study programs. Ultimately we hope that this collaboration can encourage improvements in the whole field of Health and Social Care.