Zoleka Hofmann
“A free nursing qualification that opens up a world of opportunities”
1. Why did you decide to do this apprenticeship in Germany?
I was previously based in France and when we moved to Germany, I started searching for apprenticeships. I enjoy working with people and was intrigued by the human body and its complex healing process. Furthermore, I wanted to continue using my German knowledge in the workplace.
2. How did you prepare yourself and how did the application process go?
I volunteered in a hospital before I applied for the apprenticeship. This is where I realized that I still needed to improve my language skills, as the apprenticeship requires that you have a B2 German language certificate. I applied directly to the vocational school and had to have all my qualifications recognized to determine which level of education I have. For the application, I submitted my CV, motivation letter and qualifications, and thereafter an interview which involved a written exam took place. The short exam covered the subjects Mathematics and German. After a few months of waiting, I was offered a place in the apprenticeship.
3. What personal and professional requirements do you think are important for this occupation?
Because of the nature of the job, you are expected to be someone who enjoys working with people. You must be a good listener, have patience and be able to communicate clearly- especially because you work with people from all walks of life. You must also be willing to learn every day and pay attention to detail. Furthermore, you do not require previous experience, but it does help if you have at least volunteered or worked in a hospital, so you know what to expect.
4. What do you learn in vocational school and what do you learn at the company?
The apprenticeship begins with an orientation month, this is a phase that introduces us to the different departments of the hospital such as acute care, peadiatric nursing, inpatient or outpatient long-term care.
If you decide to continue, then you are assigned to a department where the learning begins. The school designs a plan for you that covers all the areas of care: this involves teaching us about assessing and determining individual nursing needs, supervising the nursing process, and ensuring nursing quality. We also learn about nursing processes and nursing diagnostics, communication and counselling, laws and regulations as well as ethical guidelines. The training takes three years to complete and ends with a state exam. It is a bonus that the apprenticeship is free of charge.
5. What advice do you have for South Africans who are interested in an apprenticeship?
There are many job opportunities in this sector and the best part about this training is that it is recognized around Europe, meaning your job opportunities are not limited to Germany only. If you want to be successful in this job, make sure that you also learn the German language well, because the job is centred around communication. Apply to as many companies as possible to improve your chances. There are also many sites that can assist you with the application process and guide you through the various steps and requirements.
6. What tasks are you responsible for today?
Currently, I am based in an old age home. I am responsible for administering medication, assisting with washing, and taking care of the patients. Since our clientele is primarily older, I also give advice on insurances and counselling.
7. Which tasks do you enjoy the most and why?
I enjoy working in the outpatient department. The best feeling is when someone arrives unwell, and you assist them in their healing processes. I enjoy being in contact with the patient, putting them at ease and offering support. I also work with colleagues who are always willing to help, especially since I am still in my first year. For me, my colleagues are like family now.
8. And after the apprenticeship? What are your career goals?
There are many opportunities for further development within the health care system and I would like to explore them. In three years’ time, I plan to have completed the apprenticeship and would like to further my studies at a university.
This interview was conducted by Sinenhlanhla Buthelezi. We are lucky to have Buthelezi in the media development department of the Deutsche Welle Academy.