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Exchange 2 Change
 Shaping Future Vocational Pathways

Three young men looking down into the camera © Goethe-Institut/Olad Aden

Exchange opportunity for students in vocational training from the UK (Burton and South Derbyshire) and from Germany (Bavaria) to visit Germany and the UK as part of a cultural exchange and learn about vocational training in both countries. The programme seeks to broaden the horizons of young people, enabling them to learn about different cultures, and engage in meaningful discussions about future topics with peers from Germany.
The programme is funded by the Friends of the Goethe-Institut UK and the Stiftung Jugendaustausch Bayern. 
 

Applications are currently closed

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How it works

To apply, please fill out our application form. You must meet the following eligibility criteria and have the necessary documents ready. Please note: These criteria apply to participants from the UK only. To see the criteria for German applicants, please switch to the German language version of this website.

  • You will be between 18-22 years old during the exchange period.
  • You are in vocational training at Burton and South Derbyshire College in one of the following subjects: media and design, childcare, business administration/sales
  • You are interested in learning German and in getting to know Germany but have not had any (or have had very little) contact with German/Germany yet.
  • You are prepared to engage with the participants in the programme and other young people in Germany to discuss future topics.
  • In the application form, you'll provide a short statement about why you would like to be part of the exchange programme, and your project idea for the exchange.
  • Your teacher provides us directly with a letter of recommendation to support your application. We have prepared a template on the application form, and ask that you forward it to your teacher, so they may directly send it to gimagine@goethe.de. Make sure they have enough time to fill it in, and that they send it by 22nd June 2025.
Our programme is inclusive and designed to provide opportunities for all. We believe in the power of exchange and the value it brings to individual growth and mutual understanding. We are looking for participants who are eager to share their experiences and the results of their exchange at their colleges. This is a chance to learn and inspire others with your journey.

Who is Exchange2Change

Future Pathways for?

  • A group of exchange students at Berlin-Tube station Brandenburger Tor

  • Are you in vocational training at Burton and South Derbyshire College in the UK? And 18-22 years old? Apply to Exchange2Change: Future Pathways and join us on a trip to Germany and the UK!

    Are you studying Media Design, Childcare or Business Administration/Sales? If so, this opportunity is the perfect for you!
     

But I don't speak German ...

No problem! Exchange2Change is designed for those with minimal or no contact with Germany or the German language. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in German culture, learn the language, and discuss future topics with other young people. Join us in this exciting learning, exchange, and personal development journey. Let’s shape the future together with Exchange2Change!

Why participate in the programme?

With Exchange2Change Future Pathways you will:
  • make cross-cultural connections, share experiences, engage with German peers in vocational training and forge lasting friendships
  • dive into future-focused discussions, explore critical issues with other young people and broaden your horizons through diverse viewpoints
  • immerse yourself in German culture and language and learn German before, during, and after the exchange
  • have the opportunity to gain insights into vocational training pathways in Germany, observe classes and learn from your peers through class shadowing at German colleges
  • If your application is successful, the following costs will be covered: return journey, full-board accommodation (shared dormitories), activities in the programme, and public transport. 

Important Information

Questions?

Please do not hesitate to contact us!

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Partners

Exchange2Change Future Vocational Pathways is funded by the Friends of the Goethe-Institut UK and Stiftung Jugendaustausch Bayern .

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