In the previous issue of "Głos", I wrote about the possibilities available to eighth-graders wishing to continue their education at secondary schools in Bolesławiec. Today, I will discuss the opportunities to learn a trade available to those who choose vocational schools. Under the existing system of vocational schools, young people had three possibilities for learning a trade during practical classes. The first was in their own Type "C" school workshops, financed partly by the School Inspectorate and partly from income earned by the students. This type of workshop was operated by the Zespół Szkół Mechanicznych and Zespół Szkół Zawodowych im. H. Sucharskiego.
The second form involved practical training at workplaces in company-affiliated schools, such as Zespół Szkół Budowlanych and "Polfa". The third possibility was completing practical vocational training in multi-trade classes with private craftspeople. The largest number of such classes was operated by Zespół Szkół Usługowych i Handlowych. Everything would be fine were it not for the current crisis in the economy and education. Workplaces have withdrawn from running company-affiliated schools. Since January this year, Type "C" workshops have no longer been subsidized by a decision of the Minister of Education and must support themselves, which in practice means that they are likely to collapse, while the craft sector also has fewer and fewer opportunities to take on students for practical training. This is especially true in less attractive trades.
What chances, then, do students at vocational schools have? Despite everything, there are still some enterprises that understand this difficult situation. To date, the former BPB, "Polfa" and "Bonitex" continue to employ some students. "Famex", "Modernbud" and MZGM are also good examples. The latter two establishments have taken on students from Zespół Szkół Budowlanych and may serve as exemplary demonstrations of understanding the school’s difficult situation. Many craftspeople in the mechanical and construction sectors have also shown understanding. But the needs are much greater.
Everyone who employs young people in accordance with the applicable regulations receives certain benefits as a result, such as reimbursement of training costs, tax relief and so on. During this difficult period, the School Inspectorate for Education and Upbringing is also waiving the formal requirement that practical-training supervisors have completed a pedagogical course and, at the schools’ request, is granting permission to all those willing to take on this role.
Let us help schools, and especially young people, get through this difficult period in acquiring a trade. The crisis will sooner or later—hopefully—come to an end, while future generations of qualified professionals must be trained.