Apprenticeship, university studies or dual studies: When does the decision begin?

Sometimes it seems as if young people only have to decide in the 9th, 10th or 12th grade: vocational training, university studies or dual studies?
But actually, this decision begins much earlier.

It begins where a child first feels: I can do something. I understand something. I have a future that suits me.

Career guidance is therefore not just a matter of brochures, internships, and application portfolios. It is also a matter of self-confidence, language skills, support, and access to information.

Families with and without educational backgrounds

In families with a strong educational background, school, qualifications, university courses, job applications, and career paths are often discussed quite naturally. Children overhear about the available options. They may know people who have studied, completed vocational training, or achieved career advancement.

In families with less access to education, it's not necessarily love or the desire for a good future that's lacking. Often, something else is missing: knowledge about the education system, relevant contacts, confident communication skills when dealing with authorities or schools, and sometimes even the confidence that one's own path is even open to them.

That makes a big difference.

A child from an educationally minded family might ask: "Which university is right for me?"
Another child asks themselves much earlier: "Am I even good enough?"

This is exactly where equal opportunities begin!!!

The decision does not begin with the graduation certificate.

Whether a young person chooses vocational training, university studies, or a dual study program depends not only on grades. It also depends on whether they know their strengths.

Can I work practically?
Can I study for long periods and organize myself?
Do I need a clear structure?
Do I want to start earning money early?
Am I interested in theory, research, and in-depth study?
Do I learn better at work, at school, or at university?

These questions don't arise just before graduation. They develop over years. Through good conversations. Through real experiences. Through people who believe in you.

What should schools offer all children?

School should not only impart knowledge, but also provide guidance.

This includes:

• early career guidance, not just at the end of school

• Internships that are well-prepared and followed up with a debriefing.

• Discussions about education, studies and dual studies without evaluation

• Insights into different professions and life paths

• Job application training using easy-to-understand l