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IG Metall explains: Hiring Trainees on Permanent Contracts as a Matter of Principle

A one-year fixed-term contract. Fatma, Sabrina, and Dirk aren’t happy about it at all. They’d prefer to switch companies. They believe that companies should, as a matter of principle, hire their trainees on permanent contracts. This would give young people like them more security and provide employers with skilled workers in the long term.

9 May 2012 9 May 2012


Fatma works as a mechatronics technician at Sturm GmbH. She has just completed her apprenticeship—just like Sabrina and Dirk. Her boss, Mr. Sturm, is very pleased right now: The order books are full, and business is booming. Nevertheless, Mr. Sturm has initially offered Fatma and the other recent apprentices only fixed-term contracts—for one year.

Permanent Hiring as the Norm

Just like Fatma, Sabrina, and Dirk, two-thirds of all apprentices find themselves in the same situation: After their final exams, they’re only offered fixed-term contracts because companies think short-term. The three believe that companies should, as a matter of principle, hire their trainees on permanent contracts. This would give them more security, and employers could rely on them in the long term. There would be exceptions for smaller companies like Sturm’s. This would encourage them to train more people in the future than they actually need. Therefore: Permanent employment should be the norm, not the exception.

More Guides for Trainees
MINT-Berufe, etwa Industriemechanikerin oder Industriemechaniker, sind bei den Betrieben sehr gefragt.

When Your Apprenticeship Isn’t Going Well Having problems with your apprenticeship? We have solutions

Are you having problems with your apprenticeship? Are you having trouble getting along with your instructor? Do you find learning difficult? Is your money barely enough to make ends meet? And what if I get sick? We answer frequently asked questions.

Auszubildender in einer Schreinerei

Apprenticeship Wages Questions and Answers About Apprenticeship Wages

How much money are apprentices entitled to? Apprenticeship pay can vary depending on the industry, region, and whether a collective bargaining agreement applies. One thing is certain: you’re better off with a collective bargaining agreement. Our FAQ on pay.

Auszubildender in einer Schreinerei

When money isn’t enough How to finance your vocational training or college education

Apprentices and dual-track students can receive various forms of financial assistance. We provide tips on the vocational training allowance (BAB), BAföG, housing allowance, and child support—and we explain what you should keep in mind when working a part-time job.

Eine junge blonde Frau mit einem Werkzeug in der Hand steht lächelnd in einer KFZ-Werkstatt.

Child Benefit and Child Supplement Child Benefit After Age 18: What to Keep in Mind

In Germany, parents receive child benefit until their child turns 18. Entitlement to child benefit may continue beyond that age if certain requirements are met. Low-income families may also be eligible for the child supplement.

Auszubildender und Meister im Gespräch in einer Schreinerwerkstatt

Searching for an apprenticeship: Here’s how it works Find available apprenticeship positions now

August 1 or September 1 is the official start date for apprenticeships. Haven’t found a position yet? We’ll show you what options are still available for finding an apprenticeship.

Ein junger Mann steht bei einer Menschenmenge.

Your Rights in Labor Disputes The right to strike for apprentices

As an apprentice, are you allowed to participate in warning strikes and strikes? Absolutely! Here, we’ll show you what rights you have when collective bargaining enters its critical phase.

Ein starkes Team: Die IG Metall Jugend kämpft mit ihrer Kampagne "Ausbildung: Besser & Mehr" für eine gute Ausbildungsqualität für alle.

Beginner Magazine Information on getting started with vocational training and dual study programs

Starting an apprenticeship or a dual degree program means you’ll be facing a lot of new things. To make sure you’re well prepared, we’ve put together a magazine full of tips and information just for you.

Eine Frau an einer Kletterwand.

Well-protected during your apprenticeship How legal protection works for apprentices

Is your boss causing trouble with your pay, firing you during your probationary period, or refusing to provide a job reference? It’s good to be a member of IG Metall. Because then you’re entitled to legal protection.

Ein Mädchen malt einen Schaltkreis an eine Tafel.

Rights and Responsibilities What to Keep in Mind at Vocational School

If you’re in a company-sponsored apprenticeship, you must attend vocational school regularly—and your employer must grant you paid time off for this. Find out here what other rights and responsibilities you have at vocational school.

Eine junge Frau blickt durch ein gerolltes Blatt Papier.

Questions and Answers About Starting Your Apprenticeship A Clear View of Your Apprenticeship

New responsibilities, new challenges: Anyone starting vocational training is on the threshold of a new, exciting phase of life—and at the same time facing a mountain of questions. We answer the most important ones.

Ein junger Mann in einer Werkstatt blickt in ein Notebook.

How to Get a Higher Pension in Retirement Making Smart Use of Pension-Related Benefits

Pension-qualifying benefits can supplement the statutory pension—thanks to provisions in collective bargaining agreements. We explain who is eligible and how these benefits can be used.

Beratungssituation an einem Schreibtisch

Insurance for Apprentices Overview: Which types of insurance are necessary?

In this table, we’ve provided a concise summary of the importance of various types of insurance for apprentices. Some policies, such as personal liability insurance, are essential, while others are only recommended under certain circumstances.

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Whether it’s fair compensation, labor law protection, recreational accident insurance, or advice on training, college, and starting your career—we’ve got your best interests at heart. With you. For you.

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