Dual vocational training is the most common form of vocational training in Germany. It combines practical experience in the workplace and theoretical classes at part-time vocational school.

Trainees are directly involved in a company’s work processes from the very beginning. This allows them to gain valuable practical experience and means they are ideally prepared for their subsequent entry into the world of work. Experienced, skilled workers who have qualified as trainers supervise the trainees throughout their time within the company. Two-thirds of a dual training programme are practice-based and trainees spend most or all of their time at one company. This component of the training is regulated by the Federal Government through the Vocational Training Act (BBiG).

The company-based element of the dual training scheme is supplemented by part-time vocational school. These schools fall under the remit of the Länder. They back up the knowledge gained in practice in a structured way. Final examinations are conducted by the relevant competent bodies and are governed exclusively by federal law, meaning that the same standards and rules apply throughout Germany.

The Vocational Training Act (Berufsbildungsgesetz, BBiG) 

The Vocational Training Act (BBiG) and the Crafts Code (Handwerksordnung) set out the legal framework for the in-company component of a dual training programme. For example, the BBiG contains provisions on: 

• minimum payment during training
• the content of training contracts
• part-time vocational training
• the examination system
• skill requirements for trainers

The German dual vocational training system is globally renowned and serves as a role model for many other countries.

How much time do trainees spend at work?

In a full-time dual training programme, trainees spend around two-thirds of their training time at their workplace. The workplace-based element of the dual training scheme is supplemented by part-time vocational school. Trainees spend one or two days per week at part-time vocational school or attend multi-week teaching blocks.

What is full-time school-based vocational training?

For some occupational fields, all training is conducted at a trade and technical school or full-time vocational school. These training courses are therefore referred to as “full-time school-based vocational training”. These primarily comprise occupations in the health, education and social sector. Trainees obtain practical skills through mandatory internships.

Are trainees released from work to attend vocational school?

Employers are obliged to release trainees from work so that they can attend part-time vocational school or participate in in-house training measures. This time is credited towards the trainees' working hours at the company. Employers are also obliged to release trainees from work for examinations as well as on the day before their final written examination.

Training regulations govern the curricula for training occupations 

Whether an immersive media designer, management assistant for e-commerce or electronics technician for building system integration – dual vocational training has something to offer for all talents and interests. Federal training regulations stipulate national minimum standards for the curriculum content of each respective occupation. Employers and trade unions are closely involved in the process to modernize training regulations and develop new ones in accordance with the specific demands of the working world.

Many attractive opportunities after training 

Continuous learning is the best way to kickstart your career after completing training. Advanced vocational training qualifications that follow on from initial training offer one possible path towards more responsibility, new professional challenges and exciting career prospects.

You can find lots of useful information and personal stories about different aspects of dual training on the Die Duale campaign website.

Editorial deadline for this text: 01.11.2024