«Many people still lack maturity when it comes to choosing a career»

Mr Rohn, who is the target audience for the Startpunkt Wallierhof bridge programme?

Secondary school pupils who have completed compulsory education but do not yet have a plan for the future, those who are planning a gap year or who have dropped out of an apprenticeship. With us, they can gain practical experience and mature as individuals.

Choosing a career is overwhelming for many young people. They are starting the process at an increasingly early age, when many still lack independence, self-reliance, self-confidence and decision-making skills. We work with young people to develop these key competencies and provide them with individual support in finding an apprenticeship.

How is the bridge programme structured?

It consists of 60 percent practical work and 40 percent classroom instruction. At school, the young people study mathematics and German and work on their personal development, learning how to recognise and utilise their strengths, gain self-confidence and the ability to take action, and present themselves effectively. They gain work experience with their internship families. There are over 50 farms and private households to choose from, offering insights into a variety of activities.

Personal interests, preferences and abilities are taken into account when selecting an internship placement.

So the focus is mainly on domestic and agricultural professions?

No, not at all. In 15 years, our young people have found their feet in over 100 different apprenticeships. We work with domestic and agricultural businesses because young people can expect an immense variety of content there: they can get involved in a wide range of areas, including childcare, cooking, crafts, agritourism, direct marketing, farming and gardening, and animal care.

One graduate discovered her penchant for administration and marketing when she found her niche working in the farm shop and was then entrusted with its management. Personal interests, wishes and skills are naturally taken into account when selecting an internship placement.

The starting point at Wallierhof in Riedholz SO still has places available for young people from all cantons: www.startpunktwallierhof.ch