Legal Foundations of Part-Time Vocational Training (Ausbildung)
In Germany, part-time vocational training (Ausbildung) is regulated by the Vocational Training Act (BBiG). It is aimed primarily at people with caregiving or nursing responsibilities, as well as apprentices with health limitations. In coordination with the training company (Ausbildungsbetrieb) and vocational school, the weekly training time (Ausbildungszeit) can be reduced to 20 to 30 hours.
Target Groups for Part-Time Vocational Training (Ausbildung)
Part-time training programs are particularly attractive for single parents, people with relatives requiring care, individuals with disabilities or health constraints, and those who cannot work full-time for health reasons. This form of apprenticeship offers greater flexibility to balance profession and personal commitments.
Part-Time Vocational Training (Ausbildung) in the Company
The content of part-time vocational training (Ausbildung) is identical to that of full-time training; however, the working hours per week are reduced. The training time (Ausbildungszeit) in the company can be decreased to up to 20 hours per week. The duration of the training usually does not extend because of this, unless the training time is reduced to less than 25 hours per week.
Vocational School Instruction
The vocational school instruction generally remains unchanged in a part-time vocational training (Ausbildung). This means that apprentices must complete the full course load even with reduced working hours in the company. This ensures that all relevant learning content is covered and the school portion of the training is not shortened.
Benefits for Employers
For companies, hiring part-time apprentices can be attractive because they gain a flexible workforce that is still fully qualified. Especially in industries facing a shortage of skilled workers, part-time vocational training (Ausbildung) offers an opportunity to attract qualified and motivated employees who, due to their life circumstances, cannot pursue full-time training.
Financial Support for Part-Time Apprentices
Part-time apprentices can receive financial support through vocational training allowance (Berufsausbildungsbeihilfe or BAB) or BAföG, just like full-time apprentices, provided they meet the requirements. Additionally, there are funding options such as the Advancement BAföG (Aufstiegs-BAföG) or support from the Employment Agency if the part-time vocational training (Ausbildung) occurs within the framework of retraining or vocational rehabilitation.
Reconciliation of Training (Ausbildung) and Caregiving
Part-time vocational training (Ausbildung) enables apprentices to combine their training with the care of children or dependent relatives. Flexible working hours and adjusted schedules can be individually agreed upon between the company and the apprentice to meet the needs of both parties.
Support Programs for Part-Time Vocational Training (Ausbildung)
Various support programs are specifically tailored to part-time apprentices. These include programs by the Federal Employment Agency and special support measures from state governments. These initiatives aim to facilitate the integration of part-time apprentices into the labor market and offer financial and organizational assistance.
Consultation and Support
Counseling centers such as the Federal Employment Agency, Chambers of Crafts, and Chambers of Industry and Commerce (IHK) offer assistance in finding part-time apprenticeship positions. Additionally, advisory services for families or individuals with disabilities provide information and support to balance training (Ausbildung) and personal commitments.
Part-Time Vocational Training (Ausbildung) in Various Sectors
Part-time vocational training (Ausbildung) is possible in many sectors, including retail, healthcare, craftsmanship, and commercial professions. Some industries are particularly flexible with working hours, while others have more fixed schedules. Therefore, it’s important to research in advance which professions and companies offer part-time apprenticeships.
Online Platforms for Apprenticeship Search
Part-time apprenticeship positions can be found through various online platforms like the Federal Employment Agency’s “Jobbörse” or specialized websites for part-time professions. These platforms allow users to filter training offers according to part-time models, enabling interested individuals to search specifically for suitable apprenticeship opportunities.