Good work for Saxony

CPD in Saxony
Supporting lifelong learning

My comes from Brandenburg and works as a hairdresser in Dresden, where she lives with her family. Here, she is seen at the lighthouse in Moritzburg.

Lifelong learning is part of modern working life. However, it does not so much mean going back to school as grasping an opportunity.

An opportunity to develop your own personality and talent, taking your personal happiness into your own hands. This also benefits Saxony's economy. The state of Saxony offers numerous funding opportunities and types of support for continuing professional development (CPD). The modern world of work is undergoing rapid change. It offers people far more comforts and opportunities for advancement – but it is also becoming more complex. More tasks have to be done in less time and individual personal responsibility is increasing, demanding more of staff. Continuing professional development is no longer merely an option. The Free State of Saxony supports companies, employees and trainees with various funding instruments.

Career development grants

Career development training considerably increases workers’ chances of earning a higher salary, having a professional career and becoming an executive. Typical examples of career development are courses to become a master craftsperson, business management specialist, technician or early childhood educator. More than 700 other equivalent training courses are funded under the Upgrading Training Assistance Act (AFBG). Learners receive a grant for their course and exam fees and the cost of building a work for official examination, the "masterpiece", whatever their financial situation. Learners on a full-time course also benefit from a sum paid towards their cost of living.

Master craftsperson bonus

Anyone who successfully completes a career development course in Saxony as a master craftsperson (Handwerksmeister), certified industrial supervisor (Industriemeister) or master of a skilled trade (Fachmeister) can look forward to a bonus of €1,000. This can be applied for from the Chamber of Commerce (IHK), the Chamber of Trade (HWK) or eligible course providers.

Individual continuing education "cheque"

Saxony offers an "individual cheque" for continuing vocational education. This is not tied to any particular job-related or qualification-related course. The goal is to help people achieve further vocational skills and qualifications. Applicants for this may be in employment, in training or unemployed non-benefit recipients.

Picture credits: SMWA/David Pinzer, pexels.com

Corporate continuing education "cheque"

Companies and self-employed persons can also apply to the SAB for a continuing education "cheque", especially when the plan is to train staff in the context of creating new jobs, tapping new markets or securing a company’s supply of skilled workers.

Additional qualifications

When learners study for their first qualification, the Free State of Saxony also funds continuing education which is not set out in the code of practice or curriculum of a vocational training course, as long as it involves motivating budding workers or training them in special skills. The funding is paid as a lump-sum grant per trainee.