Discovering individual proclivities and talents
Starting in grade eight, students in the schools of general education have the chance to get to know three different occupations and try out the specific occupational activities in practice for two weeks (80 hours in all) in an inter-company vocational training facility or comparable educational facility. They make workpieces that they take home with them at the end of that period as the presentable product of their work. They are instructed and individually monitored in the workshops by master trainers.
This is preceded by a so-called competence check in which the young people become aware of their individual predilections and can test their aptitude for manual work. At the end of the two-week vocational orientation, each young person receives a certificate covering the work done with conclusions about proclivities and aptitudes, perseverance, thoroughness and capacity for teamwork. The certificate is of great importance as a guide for the young persons, their parents and teachers and especially for companies looking for a trainee.
Many students discover their delight in practical activity during vocational orientation. At the same time, their understanding of the purpose of learning grows and with it their motivation to pay attention in class and exert themselves. Some weak and unmotivated young people manage to improve their grades and pass their final examinations as a result. A training occupation chosen knowledgably and in inner harmony can be expected to be completed successfully, so that the number of trainee dropouts will sink.
