Völker-Schule Osnabrück: PTA recognition course can begin – with hurdles

Obtaining AZAV certification was a long process. But Lina Kalmer, deputy chairwoman of the Völker School Osnabrück, has done it. The school has received the certification, which is valid for the next three years. With the AZAV certification, the costs of the course will be covered by the Federal Employment Agency. The podcast PZ Nachgefragt addressed this topic in the episode "PTA Recognition Course in Danger."

"I am very relieved and proud that we have reached this important milestone. The AZAV certification is not only formal proof of our quality, but also a significant vote of confidence in our work," Kalmer told PZ. "I am especially relieved that all applicants can now begin the course and move a step closer to their goal of professional recognition in Germany."

The next course is scheduled to begin on August 18. "They can begin their continuing education without delay, which is crucial, especially with regard to career prospects and personal development," says Kalmer.

However, some challenges remain. The goal is to launch the course with 24 participants. However, as the deputy chairwoman of the board announced, several applicants are still awaiting approval for reimbursement from the Federal Employment Agency.

In response to a request from PZ, Kalmer cited several further hurdles. For example, a participant from Bavaria was denied the right to participate in a hybrid program located in Lower Saxony. Another participant did not receive their visa in time and now has to wait another year. Another applicant, in turn, simply could not get an appointment at the relevant job center.

Others are advised by the Federal Employment Agency to start their entire PTA training from scratch. "Even though they already have relevant previous experience," says Kalmer. In some federal states, they also cite insufficient math skills and recommend completing a basic course first.

"Despite these hurdles, we are very pleased with the commitments we have received so far." The participants who have already registered come from a variety of countries, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iraq, Kosovo, Morocco, Montenegro, Poland, Romania, Russia, Syria, and Ukraine. "This international mix is a great asset to the course and also reflects the social relevance of our program," says Kalmer.