I have a child. Can I do vocational training (Ausbildung) part-time?

Part-time vocational training (Teilzeit-Berufsausbildung) is a full Ausbildung, just with shorter daily or weekly hours.

Who it's for: For example pregnant women, parents of young children, people with caring responsibilities, people with health problems or disabilities, and migrants.

Duration: Daily or weekly training hours can be reduced by up to half. The total training period gets longer accordingly, but at most 1.5 times the normal length. Example: a 3-year Ausbildung at 75 percent takes 4 years.

Agreement with the employer: You agree on your hours with the employer before the training starts. The employer reports this to the relevant chamber (for example the Handwerkskammer).

Vocational school (Berufsschule) is usually not reduced and continues full-time. Exceptions can be discussed in some cases.

Money: Because you work fewer hours, your training pay (Ausbildungsvergütung) may be lower. If your income isn't enough, you can apply for Berufsausbildungsbeihilfe (vocational training allowance).

Advice: The Arbeitsagentur offers free advice, phone 0800 4 555500; you can also book an appointment online.