Supporting apprentices, sharing knowledge – your contribution to vocational training
ETH Zurich is committed to vocational training and thus to Switzerland's dual education system. Get involved too – as a vocational trainer and mentor for young talents.
ETH Zurich currently trains over 190 apprentices in 15 different professions, ranging from computer science, biology and chemistry laboratories to electronics, mediamatics and commercial fields. As a central pillar of the Swiss education system, vocational training enables young people to enter the world of work while helping to secure the skilled labour of tomorrow.
Apprenticeship opportunities are being expanded
Through its commitment, ETH Zurich is enhancing the reputation of vocational training in the worlds of science and work. ‘We are helping young people to develop their talents – and at the same time, our teams benefit from the fresh perspective and high motivation of the apprentices,’ says Fabienne Jaquet, Head of Vocational Training.
However, in its human resources strategy objectives, the federal government stipulates that the number of apprenticeships in the ETH Domain should increase further. ETH therefore increases the number of apprenticeships by around 20 per cent between 2021 and 2026, creating 35 new apprenticeships.
Wanted: new vocational trainers
For this reason, new vocational trainers are currently being sought. ‘We are particularly looking for training places for computer scientists, biology and chemistry laboratory assistants, electronics technicians and also in the commercial sector,’ explains Fabienne Jaquet.
Required qualifications
Anyone who would like to support young people in their training as a vocational trainer must have completed vocational training in the relevant profession (Federal Certificate of Competence EFZ) or an equivalent qualification (e.g. a professional certificate, diploma or degree) and have at least two years of professional experience. Within the first year, new vocational trainers complete a two-day introductory course.
In addition to formal qualifications, personal skills are particularly important: enjoyment of passing on knowledge, patience, openness and a willingness to engage with young people. ‘It's about interacting on an equal footing – and supporting learners in their learning process,’ explains Fabienne Jaquet.
Experience reports
Read more about the everyday life of three vocational trainers at ETH – and about the advantages and challenges that this role brings. Find out more in the new issue of the ETH Community Magazine ‘life’, which will be published in the next few days.
Support services and further training
New vocational trainers receive structured onboarding: specialists provide them with technical support and advise them on questions relating to the design of the training place. In addition, the central vocational training team accompanies and supports the vocational trainers in all training and support issues. Furthermore, ETH regularly offers free further training courses – for example on communication, leadership or learning support.
Interested? Your path to vocational training
If you would like to train apprentices yourself, it is best to contact the at an early stage. Together, you will check whether the planned tasks correspond to the respective training plan and how apprentice supervision can be integrated into the team.
Why your commitment is worthwhile
Being a vocational trainer means taking on responsibility, passing on knowledge and supporting young people on their way into working life. At the same time, it offers the opportunity for personal development and strengthening your own team.
‘Apprentices give a lot back to their teams,’ says Fabienne Jaquet. ‘They bring new perspectives and help us to see things differently and develop further. And that is something we all benefit from.’
Contact
The vocational training team is happy to answer any questions you may have:
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