Vocational training takes time. If you also have to care for children or improve your German language skills, the path to vocational training is often difficult or impossible. In these and other cases, part-time vocational training can be the solution.
What exactly is part-time vocational training?
Part-time vocational training is a full-fledged vocational training program. In this arrangement, the daily or weekly working hours at the training company are reduced. It enables people who, for personal reasons, cannot complete full-time vocational training to learn a trade. In principle, all dual vocational training programs can be completed on a part-time basis. The only requirement is that the training company must agree.
Who do I need to consult with regarding part-time vocational training?
Part-time vocational training must be coordinated with the training company in advance and agreed upon in the training contract. It is important to clarify under what conditions part-time training is even possible. The works council and the youth and trainee representatives (JAV) can assist with this.
How long does part-time training last?
In a part-time vocational training program, the daily or weekly working hours can be reduced to up to 50 percent—either for the entire duration of the training or just for a specific period. The maximum duration of the training is one and a half times the regular training period. A three-year part-time training program can therefore last a maximum of four and a half years.
What about vocational school?
Vocational school is not bound by the part-time arrangement agreed upon in the apprenticeship contract . Part-time apprentices must therefore generally attend classes full-time. However, if there are enough students, it is possible to set up a part-time vocational school class. In this case, the vocational school should also be informed about the part-time apprenticeship.
Who can pursue a part-time apprenticeship?
In principle, anyone can complete a part-time apprenticeship. This option is particularly appealing to people who, due to their individual life circumstances, cannot complete a full-time apprenticeship. This includes, among others, parents with young children, people caring for family members, individuals who need additional remedial instruction or German language courses , or apprentices who want or need to work on the side.
Skills Shortage? Part-Time Apprenticeships!
It’s not just the trainees who benefit from part-time apprenticeships by better balancing their personal lives with their training. This option also offers advantages for companies: In times of a skilled labor shortage and numerous unfilled apprenticeship positions, it opens the door to a new group of applicants—and thus to a motivated new generation of skilled workers.
You can find more information on part-time apprenticeships atthe Federal Ministry of Education and Research.
