Apprenticeship as a Carpenter

A three-year dual apprenticeship with the City of Cologne, combining theory at Ulrepforte vocational college with practical training in the workshop for people with disabilities operated by Sozial-Betriebe-Köln. The program teaches skilled, technical, and creative work with wood and plastics.

Processing wood and plastics by hand and with machines; operating a panel saw, jointer, and spindle moulder; working with glass and metal in combination with wood; producing items such as meditation benches and acoustic walls according to customer specifications; creating individual pieces based on predefined designs.

Lower secondary school certificate, grade 10A, or a higher school-leaving certificate; practical skills, technical understanding, spatial awareness, creative design ideas, and a positive attitude toward physical work. Communication skills, teamwork, commitment, and openness to change are also expected.

Training remuneration under the TVAöD collective agreement: €1,368.26 in the first year, €1,418.20 in the second year, and €1,464.02 in the third year; capital-forming benefits; an annual special payment of up to 90% of the training remuneration; a €50 gross learning-material allowance per training year; €13.29 in capital-forming benefits per month; 31 days of vacation, an annual five-hour time credit, and additional vacation for severely disabled employees; balanced work-life balance; varied work areas; job-related training courses; individual support; collectively agreed pay; 30 days of vacation; free sports program; part-time training is also possible.