Dissatisfied with the training

Problems in training: What to do if it doesn't fit?

Text last updated: 2024-09-02

When things aren't going well in training

Sometimes things don't go as smoothly as desired during training. If trainees are unhappy with their choice, the question arises: continue or drop out? In principle, dropping out of training is not a tragedy. Nevertheless, it is worthwhile not giving up straight away. A discussion with the training company or a training consultation at the relevant chamber can often help. Find out where you can go and what important things you should bear in mind if your professional future takes an unplanned turn.

In many cases, several reasons come together

The reasons for dissatisfaction with the training must be considered individually in each case. Different problems often come together. Common reasons can be, for example:

  • It turns out that the career choice does not meet personal expectations, ideas and interests.
  • Health problems arise.
  • Difficulties and trouble arise at work with superiors or colleagues.
  • The performance at work and/or grades at vocational school are poor and do not meet company expectations.
  • The necessary support in the company is missing. The apprentice feels left alone or overwhelmed.
  • Family problems or relocation force them to end their training prematurely.
  • The trainee finds an alternative career that suits him or her better.

If you are unhappy with your apprenticeship or are thinking about dropping out, you should address the reasons early on. The first step can be an open discussion with the training company. Together they can discuss how the situation can be improved and what support the company can offer. If there are questions about rights and obligations during the apprenticeship or if mediation is necessary, the advisors at the relevant chambers (e.g. the Chamber of Industry and Commerce or Chamber of Crafts) are the right people to contact. It is also worth talking to the parents about the causes and possible solutions. In many cases, ways can be found to overcome existing difficulties and successfully complete the training despite stumbling blocks.

Stay or drop out? Trainees can contact these offices

If the difficulties in the company cannot be resolved through personal discussions, trainees can take advantage of external counseling services - the earlier the better. Counseling is free of charge, independent and confidential. The trainer is only consulted if the trainee agrees.

The following contact points, among others, offer decision-making aids and support on many issues relating to training:

  • Training advisors from the chambers
    The training advisors at the relevant chambers (e.g. IHK or HWK) are the first point of contact for questions about rights and obligations during training or in the event of conflicts with the training company. They provide support with arbitration and mediation and work closely with the careers advice service of the Federal Employment Agency, the vocational colleges and other local partners to find solutions and facilitate the successful completion of training.
  • Careers advice from the Federal Employment Agency
    Vocational guidance can discuss whether assisted training (AsA) is an option. With this support offer, a training mentor accompanies the further training, organizes tutoring sessions, for example, or helps to address and solve problems in the company. Perhaps the training you have started can be continued in another company? Possible alternatives can be discussed and initiated with the careers advisor at the Federal Employment Agency.
  • VerAplus
    Coaches with many years of professional experience are specially trained by the Senior Expert Service to support young people. With the free advice service VerAplus (abbreviation for Verhinderung von Ausbildungsabbrüchen - prevention of training dropouts), they offer trustworthy support for all trainees in difficult situations.
  • Vocational schools
    The school and social pedagogues at the vocational schools can also help. They know about possible offers and measures when it comes to difficulties and remedying learning deficits at school.

Where can we find help and support?

The training advisors at the IHKs and chambers of crafts and trades are competent contacts for trainees in all aspects of in-company training.

The Federal Employment Agency can help with all questions relating to career guidance and training. You can request an appointment for a personal consultation online, by telephone (0800 4 555500) or via the contact form. A video consultation is also possible.

If you would like to take advantage of the VerAplus offer, you can find information material on the portal www.ses-bonn.de. Click here to go directly to the registration form.

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