Under certain conditions, adults over the age of 22 can shorten their basic vocational training (apprenticeship). The duration of training is then generally shortened by 1 year. This educational pathway requires an apprenticeship contract and existing work experience.

For catch-up training in accordance with Art. 32 of the Vocational Training Ordinance, it is not absolutely necessary for you to attend a school where you take part in vocational training for the relevant occupation. However, it requires a great deal of self-discipline and perseverance to acquire all the qualifications required to complete the qualification procedure (formerly the final apprenticeship examination) independently and without external help. Alternatively, you can also attend the vocational school with other learners on the course or attend individual training courses that will make it easier for you to complete the final examination for adults.

The preparatory courses for the qualification procedure often take place in the evenings or on Saturdays. However, they can also take place once a week throughout the day. This varies depending on the provider. Please enquire directly with the training provider of your choice. As a rule, you will work 60 to 80 percent of the time in your profession to gain further experience.

If you do not have any vocational education and training and would like to acquire an Federal VET Diploma or Federal VET Diploma as part of catch-up training, you must have at least 5 years of professional experience by the time of the final examination. Of this, 2 years (at least 80%) must have been completed in the desired profession. Part-time employment will be credited accordingly. The preparatory courses are designed in such a way that this required professional experience can be acquired or extended "on the side" during the training period.

In every occupation in which it is possible to obtain a Federal Certificate of Vocational Education and Training (VET) or a Federal VET Diploma (VET), there is also the option of adult education and training.

Some cantons cover the costs of catch-up training to become a plant operator with a Federal Diploma of Vocational Education and Training (VET Diploma), provided that the training takes place in your canton of residence and the VET office pays your school fees. You should always clarify this in advance in individual cases.

As a rule, catch-up training for adults (adult apprenticeship) Art. 32 lasts one year less than the apprenticeship for young people. The apprenticeship as a restaurant specialist EFZ lasts 3 years and this would mean 4 years for catch-up training. In certain cantons, however, the Art. 32 BBV for restaurant specialists can be completed in 4 semesters (i.e. 2 years) while working. It is best to find out directly from the training provider about the duration of your desired catch-up training.

After passing a qualification procedure as part of catch-up training, you will receive either a Federal Certificate of Vocational Education and Training (VET) or a Federal VET Diploma (VET) in your chosen profession.

Catch-up training Art. 32 is a shortened apprenticeship for adults with professional experience that leads to a federal qualification in basic vocational training.

You can either contact the individual schools directly, which offer training courses to catch up on your chosen profession, or you can contact the vocational training offices in your canton of residence.