What is further training?

Further training refers to the systematic expansion and deepening of knowledge and skills after completing initial training or studies. The main aim of such further training is to improve professional skills and acquire new qualifications in order to meet the requirements of the labor market. In Germany in particular, various forms of continuing education such as IHK continuing education or educator continuing education are widespread. They range from in-service courses and seminars to distance learning courses and offer flexible adaptation to individual life circumstances. Continuing education plays a crucial role in personal and professional development, as it promotes career development and increases employability. Thanks to the education voucher, it is also possible in Germany to receive state funding for the costs of many further education courses. This enables a wide audience, regardless of financial resources, to participate in and benefit from further training.

Difference between continuing education and further training

The difference between continuing education and further education lies primarily in their objectives and structures. Continuing education refers to deepening existing skills in the current professional field. This involves acquiring specialist knowledge that can be applied directly in the workplace. This is particularly relevant in order to meet professional requirements and adapt to new techniques or regulations.

On the other hand, continuing education offers the opportunity to develop new skills, often with the aim of preparing for more demanding or new career paths. Continuing education is more versatile and can help to increase employability or plan a career change.

Comparison: Continuing education vs. further training

• Objective:

• Further training: deepening existing skills

• Continuing education: Expansion into new areas of expertise

• Career:

• Further training: Improvement within the current professional field

• Continuing education: preparation for new challenges

This difference is crucial in order to choose the right form of professional development and thus avoid misunderstandings in everyday working life.

Popular types of further training in Germany

IHK further training

The IHK (Chamber of Industry and Commerce) offers a wide range of further training opportunities that focus on commercial and technical professions. These courses are specifically designed to enhance participants' practical skills and technical knowledge. Frequently requested courses include specialist and master craftsman qualifications, which can serve as a stepping stone to higher positions in companies.

Further training for educators

For educators, further training offers a valuable opportunity to deepen their pedagogical knowledge and focus on specialized areas such as early childhood education or inclusion education. This supports the individual development of children in various educational settings.

PDL further training

The PDL (nursing service management) further training is aimed at nursing staff who wish to move up into management roles. These programs offer management and leadership skills that are necessary for the operation and management of care facilities. The focus is on the organization and optimization of care processes.

Project management training

Project management training is crucial in an increasingly project-oriented working environment. These courses provide essential skills in planning, monitoring and completing projects. They are particularly beneficial for career changers who want to improve their career prospects.

Nursing training

Nursing training is another popular category. It is aimed at trained nurses who wish to acquire specialized skills. Areas such as wound management, elderly care and geriatric care are the focus here in order to meet the increasing demands of the healthcare sector.

Advantages of further training

Further training offers many benefits for both individuals and companies. Here are some of the most important:

• Career development: further education improves your qualifications and helps you to advance to higher positions. By mastering current technologies and trends, you can significantly improve your career prospects.

• Financial prospects: By acquiring new skills, you can increase your salary potential. The "Weiterbildung Agentur für Arbeit" can be helpful here, as it often covers the costs, which minimizes the financial burden.

• Flexibility and adaptability: In a constantly changing world of work, flexibility is crucial. Further training enables you to react and adapt to changes in the professional field.

• Network and contacts: Through further education, you will make contacts with like-minded people and experts, which can expand your career opportunities.

• Improve your English skills: Many further education courses, especially in the technical field, also offer courses to improve your English language skills. This can expand your international career opportunities.

• Company benefits: For companies, well-trained employees mean a competitive advantage. They benefit from new ideas and improved processes.

Through further training, you can not only advance your own career, but also contribute to the success of your company.

How do you find the right training course?

Choosing the right training course can be crucial to your professional success. To make the right decision, you should follow the steps below:

1. Conduct a needs analysis : First consider what skills you currently need or would like to develop. Examine the job market and identify trends in your professional field. For example, further training as a care consultant makes sense if you want to work in the healthcare sector.

2. Check research opportunities : Find out in detail about the various further training courses on offer. Further training as an accountant could be worthwhile if you work in finance.

3. Compare providers : Look at different providers and their curricula. You should also consider the costs, duration and flexibility of the programs.

4. Use counseling sessions : Consider professional counseling sessions. Employment offices or educational institutions often offer free consultations.

5. Read testimonials : Search for testimonials from former participants to get a realistic insight.

This structured approach allows you to choose the training course that best suits your personal and professional goals. For example, if you are planning a career in HR, a further training course in human resources could be just right for you. Education vouchers can help you overcome the financial hurdle.