„Vocational School is not like a German language course …“ – Young Refugees’ perspectives on Vocational School in Germany

Abstract

This article deals with young refugee’s experiences at vocational schools in Germany. It focuses on the aspect of language proficiency in German and the challenges that come with entering vocational schools in Germany for language learners. First results are presented on the basis of a qualitative empirical research project in which young refugees attending vocational schools were interviewed. Based on their reports, it is discussed how multilingualism can be dealt with in a way that promotes learning instead of preventing it.