ESF – Workshop Year

The ESF – Workshop Year in North Rhine-Westphalia supports career-oriented measures with practical company phases for young people and young adults up to 25 years assigned by the Employment Agency or Jobcenter who are not yet ready for vocational training. Participants are intensively supported by designated educational providers to explore professional interests, strengthen social skills, and develop a stable learning and work attitude. Subsequently, they are deployed in real production and service processes to enhance their readiness for training. A flat rate of 720 euros per month per participant is available to cover provider costs, which are financed 100 percent from ESF funds and co-financed by the Employment Agency or Jobcenter. Additionally, the program rewards good performance with individual performance bonuses of 300 euros for each evaluation rated as "good" on a quarterly basis (December, March, June, September).

Applications must be submitted before the start of the measure and require proof of co-financing by the local Employment Agency or Jobcenter as well as the assignment of participants. For billing, monthly attendance records and documentation of services provided, including the assessment by the educational specialist, must be submitted. In the event of premature termination of the measure, vacated places may be refilled. A full entry and exit month each count as a full month. Through the combination of practical training, individual support, and performance incentives, bridges to training and employment are created, and the sustainable labor market integration of disadvantaged youth is specifically promoted.