Apprenticeship Programs in France

The French government has passed multiple laws in favor of apprenticeships, in particular in support of extending apprenticeships to the age of 25 and increasing financial support for companies that employ apprentices. In order to facilitate the employment of young people in France, a new legal requirement was introduced in 2013 regarding the employment of apprentices. As a consequence, an action plan is in place across Dow France legal entities to support the hiring of apprentices. For 2015, to reinforce the employment of apprentices in companies with more than 250 employees, the French government has established an apprentice quota of 5% of head count.

Program Objectives

To tackle the departure of the ageing workforce in France (54% of Dow Technicians in Manufacturing & Engineering are older than 45), the apprenticeship program is an important pipeline for ensuring a sustainable and skilled pool of young workers in operation. The apprenticeship program in France is, in general, an important hiring, which is why Dow participates in their education program. This approach is fully aligned with local labour best practices and obligations.

Locations

Chauny
Erstein
Drusenhiem
Villers Saint Paul
Lauterbourg
Paris
Valbonne

Occupations

Chemical Plant Operator
Chemical Lab Technician
Electro Technician for Automation Engineering
Industrial Mechanic Technician
Maintenance Technician
Employee Health & Safety Technician
Run Plant Engineer
Chemical Engineer
Chemist
Customer Service Representative

Program Structure

Duration: 1 to 3 years

Dual system: Learning in school and at Dow

Learning on the Job (60%): 3 days in the Company or part- time weekly.

Learning in School (40%): 2 days per week in school or weekly part- time weekly to learn theoretical background of the chosen profession. The education fees of an apprenticeship are covered by the Apprenticeship Tax paid each year by all companies in France.

Graduation: Graduation is possible after 1 to 3 years, depending on the apprenticeship program. Written and practical examinations are a requirement. The apprenticeship program is a means to obtain a degree from vocational up to Engineer and Master levels.