The current economic situation is now also having an impact on the apprenticeship market. In the past vocational guidance year, employers reported almost five per cent fewer apprenticeship vacancies than in the previous year. At the same time, around three per cent more young people were looking for an apprenticeship.

Although, in numerical terms, there were still more reported apprenticeship vacancies (494,109) than applicants (444,335). However, the gap between supply and demand has narrowed significantly in recent years. This makes it all the more important to bring young people and businesses together and to create opportunities at an early stage.

Challenges in the apprenticeship market remain.

“Even in economically challenging times, apprenticeships remain a key investment in the future.” “Demographic trends and the growing demand for skilled workers are making this increasingly clear,” says Andrea Nahles, Chair of the Federal Employment Agency. “Right now, it is crucial to create opportunities for young people whilst helping businesses secure a skilled workforce.”

Apprenticeships secure the skilled workforce of tomorrow. 

Companies benefit in the long term from training their own future skilled workforce. The Federal Employment Agency supports businesses by providing advice and various funding opportunities.
“Register your apprenticeship vacancies with the Federal Employment Agency and make use of work placements or entry-level training programmes as well.” “Internships offer a good opportunity to get to know potential future employees and recruit them for your own company at an early stage,” said Nahles.

Support for successfully completing a vocational training programme

To ensure apprenticeships can be successfully completed, the Federal Employment Agency offers various support options. This includes, among other things, Assisted Apprenticeships (AsA), which support apprentices in overcoming professional or personal challenges. Special support programmes are also available for young people with disabilities.

Since apprenticeship places are not always available nearby, a certain degree of regional mobility can also be helpful. In such cases, the Federal Employment Agency provides support, for example, in the form of a mobility allowance.

Choosing a career early on and after careful consideration is a key foundation for one’s future career path. That is why young people should start thinking about their interests and career options as early as possible and make use of the guidance services offered by employment agencies.

You can find further information on the “Week of Apprenticeships” on our website #AusbildungKlarmachen (available in German).