Parents and Student

Vocational colleges and the upper secondary level of grammar schools and comprehensive schools offer young people and young adults numerous opportunities to shape their educational and professional paths individually. In the Oberberg district, all school-leaving qualifications can be obtained depending on the prerequisites.

At vocational colleges, in addition to academic content, vocational knowledge is also imparted.

Here is an overview of the vocational colleges and grammar schools and comprehensive schools.

Application for a school place

Applications for a place at a vocational college are submitted at the beginning of February after the mid-year reports via the platform schulbewerbung.de.

Many parents and young people initially think of high school diploma and university studies when it comes to career orientation. However, dual vocational training offers an equivalent alternative. It combines practical experience in the workplace with theoretical instruction at vocational school and opens up diverse career opportunities.

Especially in the Oberbergischer Kreis with its strong industrial structure, it represents an important foundation for entering professional life and ensuring a long-term supply of skilled workers.

An overview of dual vocational training:

• Practice-oriented training in companies

• Variety in training through the alternation of vocational school and training company 

• Practical implementation of work instructions increases professional competence and independence of beginners 

• Employees or trainees are retained in the company whenever possible, even in challenging times 

• Constant exchange between trainers, supervisors and trainees

• Diversity of training opportunities

• Opportunities for further training after the apprenticeship

• Remuneration during the training

Here is the overview: Training position search

A dual study program combines studying at a university with practical work in a company. This allows young people to study and gain work experience simultaneously.

In Oberbergischer Kreis, there are several companies offering dual study positions in various fields, especially in technical and commercial professions.

An overview of dual study programs:

• Combination of theory and practice

• Variety in the dual study program through alternating between university and training company

• Early integration into everyday work

• Practical implementation of work instructions enhances professional competence and independence of career starters 

• Good chances for a job offer after graduation

• Remuneration during the study program

Here is the overview: Dual Study Positions

Studying provides an opportunity to further qualify in a specific field after school and deepen theoretical knowledge. Depending on the course of study, different professional and academic perspectives are available.

The Oberberg District offers various access points to study programs in the region and surroundings.

Overview of studies:

• Imparting theoretical knowledge at a university of applied sciences or university

• Focus on scientific work and independent learning

• Opportunities for practical experience through internships

• Flexible structure through the selection of subjects and specializations

• Possibility to obtain an academic degree

Click here for an overview: Everything about studying

After graduation, many face the decision of which career path to take. Voluntary services like the Voluntary Social Year (FSJ), the Voluntary Ecological Year (FÖJ), or the Federal Voluntary Service (BFD) offer an additional opportunity for orientation during this phase.

They combine practical work and provide insights into various social work areas. In the process, they offer in-depth professional experiences that can help better assess one's interests and strengths.

Overview of Voluntary Services:

• Practical work in various institutions and projects

• Insights into different career fields

• Financial support in the form of pocket money

• Promotion of personal development and social skills

In the Oberberg district, there are various placements offering voluntary services. Here is the overview.