 Work experience in Germany:
Welcome to Berlin
As a city, Berlin is simply unrivalled. With iconic architecture, an outstanding art scene and a key place in modern history, the city is hugely popular with tourists and especially young people.
During the cold war, Germany’s largest city symbolised the global struggle between communism and capitalism. But since the Berlin Wall fell in 1989, the city has become a symbol of hope: the place where East meets West.
Today, Berlin is an exciting and forward looking metropolis, driven by cultural institutions and scientific research. With a strong and varied economy, the city offers all manner of opportunities for work experience.
Meet Your Host Organisation
Urban-consult is a social & educational organisation based in Berlin. As well as running mobility projects with partners in EU states, they manage a range of multi-cultural activities to promote the integration of ethnic minorities.
You can learn more about Urban-consult at www.urban-consult-ggmbh.de
So – what can you expect during your placement in Berlin?
Travel
Your air travel will be arranged by ETS. Many UK airports offer flights to Berlin, but as we book according to price and availability, we find that London airports are generally the best choice.
On arrival, you’ll be met at Berlin Airport by a Host Organiser, who’ll accompany you to your accommodation...
Accommodation
Your self-catering accommodation will be shared with other participants. Full kitchen and laundry facilities are provided, but you will be expected to supply your own towels.
You’ll also be responsible for cleaning your own room and changing the bedlinen that’s provided. When you leave, your room should be in the same condition as when you arrived.
Accommodation is basic, but as long as you maintain it well, it will suit your needs for the duration of the programme.
Language Course
The Language Course consists of 40 hours tuition. It is likely that there will be different levels of competence within the group and that weaker members will have to be prepared to work harder in order to improve their language skills. Conversely, students with a higher skills level will be expected to help the weaker students. These factors need to be realised and accepted. The language course will be Monday to Friday, 4 hours per day and will be held at the Institut für Sprachvermittlung.
On the first day of the language course you will be expected to sit a language test. Further information will be provided by the host organisation on arrival.
It must be stressed that as much time and effort as possible should be put into learning or improving your German. Please remember that your level of language skills will determine the content of your work experience. The higher your level, the more rewarding your placement will be.
Work Experience
Your placement will last for 10 weeks. You’ll be working in and around Berlin, so you’ll need to travel into work using public transport. Be sure to account for travel time.
Choosing your work placement
You’ll find all kinds of industries and placements in Berlin. Selection is based on your language skills, past experience and qualifications - as well as your personal interests and future aspirations.
At the moment we have placements running in these – and other sectors:
- Politics
- Arts and cultural services
- Information services
- NGOs
- Marketing & PR
- Photography
- Childcare
- Intercultural centres
- Legal
- Film
- Education
- Environmental
These industries can offer you extensive opportunities. And naturally, new market sectors are always being explored...
Don’t forget, your placement is about more than work experience. As you’ll discover here, there’s always something to see and do in Berlin.
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