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Ausbildung career

Educator / Early Childhood Educator Ausbildung in Germany

German name: Erzieher/in

The training to become an Educator (Erzieher/in) is a 1-year state-regulated vocational training or further education program that prepares you for pedagogical work with children and adolescents. It can be completed either purely school-based or as a practice-integrated training (PiA), with PiA offering a high practical component and an apprenticeship salary. This qualification enables you to shape educational processes and support children in their development.

What you do

  • Plan and conduct pedagogical activities (e.g., crafts, games, sports)
  • Accompany and support children and adolescents in their development
  • Advise parents and legal guardians and collaborate with them
  • Document observations and create development plans
  • Resolve conflicts and support social learning
  • Organize leisure activities and excursions
  • Recognize and respond to the individual needs of children

Requirements

  • Intermediate school leaving certificate or equivalent qualification
  • Completed relevant vocational training or corresponding professional experience (often a prerequisite)
  • Very good German language skills (at least B2 level)
  • Empathy, communication skills, and a sense of responsibility
  • Creativity and enjoyment of working with children and adolescents
  • Teamwork skills and resilience
  • Sometimes a police clearance certificate is required

Career prospects

  1. 1Specialization in areas such as curative education (Heilpädagogik) or social pedagogy (Sozialpädagogik)
  2. 2Taking on leadership roles (e.g., group leader, deputy kindergarten director)
  3. 3Further training as a certified specialist (Fachwirt) in education
  4. 4University studies in early childhood education, social work, or educational sciences (with university entrance qualification)
  5. 5Work in various institutions (kindergartens, after-school care, youth centers, residential homes)

Companies offering this Ausbildung

and 93 more companies

Frequently asked questions

Answers from our data on salary, length, German level and open positions.

How much do you earn in a Educator / Early Childhood Educator Ausbildung in Germany?

Usually 1,100 to 1,300 € a month. Pay rises with each year of training; the company sets the exact amount.

How long is the Educator / Early Childhood Educator Ausbildung?

The Ausbildung takes 1 year.

What German level do I need for a Educator / Early Childhood Educator Ausbildung?

Usually B2 German is enough. It is a guideline: some companies ask for more, some accept less.

What are the requirements for a Educator / Early Childhood Educator Ausbildung?

Intermediate school leaving certificate or equivalent qualification; Completed relevant vocational training or corresponding professional experience (often a prerequisite); Very good German language skills (at least B2 level); Empathy, communication skills, and a sense of responsibility.

Where can I find open Educator / Early Childhood Educator Ausbildung positions?

Right now there are 171 open positions at 105 companies, for example at Evang. Verwaltungsund Serviceamt Mittelbaden, Hephata Hess. Diakoniezentrum e.V., and AWO Soziale Dienste Vorpommern gGmbH.

How to apply as a Educator / Early Childhood Educator

Create your German CV, no account needed. Then apply to one of the open positions.

Career information is based on BERUFENET by the Federal Employment Agency.