Lexicon N - P

As every child knows, if you have rights, you also have responsibilities. To put it in the legalistic language of the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce, each trainee is obliged to acquire the skills and knowledge for his or her vocation. It is thus in the interest of each trainee to work diligently, participate in the training measures and the vocational school instruction, maintain his or her booklets recording courses and activities, follow instructions, observe the particular rules and regulations of the company and take care when using the company’s machinery and equipment. The company's business secrets and confidential information must of course not be divulged.

Your vocational training contract also sets out the details of the so-called probationary period. For vocational training occupations, this is generally for a period of three months. The training firm as well as the trainee may give notice during this period without furnishing any reasons for termination. This sounds much worse than it actually is. After all, the probationary period also holds several advantages for you. It gives you the chance to figure out whether or not you have chosen the right vocation, for instance, and – it should not be forgotten – whether we are "compatible" with one another.