Yes, to train as an occupational pedagogue with a federal certificate, you need at least three years of general professional experience (at least 80 percent) and at least two years of professional experience in the field of occupational pedagogy (at least 80 percent).

ATTENTION: The higher professional examination for work educators with a federal diploma was abolished in 2023. There is now a professional examination that leads to the qualification of occupational educator with a federal certificate.

Training as a workagogue serves as preparation for the professional examination (BP) in workagogy and, with the modules to be completed, provides the basis for registering for the BP, but the training does not necessarily lead to the examination. You can register for the BP during the training.

The working pedagogue course is part-time, prepares you for the Federal Diploma of Higher Education and lasts 1.5 to 2 years. However, the course is modular, which means that you can extend it over a longer period if required - and in consultation with the training provider.

The path to a career as an occupational educator leads via further training, relevant professional activity during training and the professional examination (BP). It is also possible to start with the EFZ as a care specialist followed by further training to become a certified head of occupational education HF.

Please note: The higher professional examination (HFP) to become a work educator with a federal diploma was abolished in 2023.