Gaining International Experience: WIEGEL Apprentice Alexander Schulze Successfully Completes Programme in Dublin

From 20 September to 10 October 2026, Alexander, a second-year industrial management assistant apprentice at WIEGEL Parey in Redekin, exchanged his usual training routine for an international learning environment in the Irish capital.

Together with twelve students from various commercial vocational training programmes, he took part in the three-week educational trip. The stay was made possible through cooperation between his vocational school, BBS Conrad Tack in Burg, and the German-Irish Chamber of Industry and Commerce (AHK), as well as through the European Erasmus+ funding programme.

Business English and international skills in focus

The main focus was a C1-level language course in business and professional English at the Everest Language School in Dublin. Conducted entirely in English, the course combined theoretical knowledge with practical insights into life and work in Ireland.

During his stay, Alexander improved his English proficiency and developed his language skills in a professional context. Upon successful completion, he received the internationally recognised certificate issued by AHK Ireland as part of the Kaufmann International Certificate programme.

Discovering Dublin and Ireland beyond the classroom

A city tour at the beginning of the stay gave the group their first impressions of Dublin. Further activities included visits to EPIC, the Irish Emigration Museum, the Botanic Gardens, the National Library and the Archaeology Museum.

At an exhibition about the European Union, the group also explored the importance of European cooperation, its benefits and the role of international exchange.

Excursions took Alexander to the coastal towns of Howth and Bray. Participants were free to organise their own weekends. Alexander made use of this opportunity to hike along the cliffs of Howth, visit The Church restaurant and pub, where he enjoyed live music and traditional Irish dancing, and take an independently organised day trip to Belfast.

For accommodation, participants could choose between staying with a host family or in student accommodation. Alexander chose Brickworks in Dublin’s Liberties district. In the communal areas and landscaped courtyard, he met people from different countries and gained valuable international experience outside the classroom as well.

A valuable step in his vocational training

The stay complemented Alexander’s practical training at the company and his vocational education with experiences that are difficult to gain in his usual training environment. Three weeks in an English-speaking setting strengthened his professional communication skills and independence. At the same time, he discovered a new country and met people from different cultures.

We are delighted that Alexander successfully completed the programme and that he can now apply his new experiences and skills as he continues his apprenticeship at WIEGEL.

Dear Alexander, congratulations on earning your certificate!