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An apprenticeship offers many opportunities – and with the EU qualification, you can get even more out of it. This additional qualification from the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) runs alongside your apprenticeship and provides you with valuable knowledge about the international and European economy. At the same time, you’ll have the chance to work abroad for six weeks and gain completely new experiences there.
You can start the EU Competence programme from the second year of your apprenticeship. However, the decision to take part is made earlier on so that everything can be planned in good time. During your apprenticeship, you’ll also study foreign trade, international business and English. This involves just three extra lessons a week in foreign trade and international business – though your regular English lessons are sufficient.
What makes this additional qualification special is the six-week stay abroad. Depending on availability, you’ll be placed at one of the MERKUR GROUP’s European subsidiaries, for example in Malta or Spain. The stay can take place as a single block or in two three-week periods.
A third-year apprentice was given the opportunity to spend six weeks in Malta, where she got to know the companies MERKUR eSolutions and EPG Financial Services. During her time there, she worked in the finance department as well as in user verification and support. This enabled her not only to gain fascinating insights into international work processes, but also to experience how people work in another country.
Just as valuable as the professional experience was her personal development. She says she became more independent, gained greater confidence in dealing with new situations and met many interesting people. She particularly remembers the balance between her daily work and her free time. Alongside her work, she had plenty of time to explore the island, learn about its history and make unforgettable memories.
Another major advantage: you don’t need to worry about the costs. The MERKUR GROUP provides comprehensive support and covers the costs of the IHK exams, travel to and from the destination, accommodation and – depending on the destination country – your expenses as well. This means you can focus entirely on your experiences.Of course, gaining EU-recognised qualifications does involve a bit of extra effort. But anyone with an interest in international issues who is prepared to invest a little more time will be rewarded with a recognised additional qualification, valuable experience abroad and many personal insights.
Of course, the EU Competence programme does involve a bit of extra effort. However, anyone with an interest in international issues who is prepared to invest a little more time will be rewarded with a recognised additional qualification, valuable experience abroad and many personal insights. Looking back, taking part was one of the best decisions our trainee made during her apprenticeship.
Do you want not only to successfully complete your apprenticeship, but also to gain international experience and develop personally? Then the EU Competence programme offers you the perfect opportunity. With the support of the MERKUR GROUP, you can look beyond your own horizons and make the most of your apprenticeship.
