Vocational Schools
Around 60 percent of all young people learn a profession within the dual system of vocational education and training. The system is called ''dual'' because vocational training takes place both in the company and in part-time vocational school. In the company, the apprentice receives practical training which is supplemented by theoretical instruction in the vocational school.
There are around 350 state recognized training occupations. The period of training is usually two to three years and is concluded by a state examination. During this time, the apprentice is financially remunerated. Access to this training is not formally linked to a specific school certificate. However, most employers expect at least a secondary school graduation. The level of the degree depends on the requirements of the specific occupation. The system is based on statutory training regulations and administered by the Chambers of Industry and Commerce (Industrie- und Handelskammern, IHK) and the Chambers of Skilled Trades and Crafts (Handwerkskammern, HWK).
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