New educational program in Darmstadt combines learning, career guidance and individual support
"Option B" will launch on September 1, 2026, in Darmstadt, a new educational and support program for young people without a secondary school leaving certificate. Ten participants will have the opportunity to obtain their school leaving certificate and simultaneously develop career prospects. The twelve-month program is aimed at young people from Darmstadt between the ages of 16 and 25.
The project is being implemented by Werkhof eV on behalf of the City of Darmstadt. Lessons and childcare take place in centrally located, accessible rooms at Holzstraße 2.
“Educational paths are not always straightforward. With ‘Option B’, we give young people the chance to start over, obtain a school leaving certificate, and develop concrete perspectives for their future,” explains Mayor Barbara Akdeniz. The program combines individual support with learning, career guidance, and practical experience.
Small learning group and individual support
Participants are prepared for the external secondary school leaving certificate in a small learning group. In addition to classroom instruction, the program includes social and educational support, career guidance, practical experience days, internships, and application training.
The goal is not only to obtain a school leaving certificate. Afterwards, the young people should ideally be able to transition into vocational training, employment, or further qualification.
Five of the ten places are allocated through the Darmstadt Job Center. The other five places are allocated through the Youth Welfare Office and the network of youth services and social work.
“With ‘Option B,’ we are jointly creating a program for young people who need targeted support for their future,” says Andreas Hoffmann, Managing Director of the Darmstadt Job Center. A secondary school leaving certificate is an important building block. However, the crucial factor is developing a viable perspective for training and employment from it.
Recognizing strengths and developing career prospects
At the Werkhof, the personal development of young people is also the focus. "Together with the young people, we want to discover where their strengths lie and what the next steps should be for them," explains Akin Fehn, a member of the executive board. The small learning group and close support provide excellent conditions for this.
“Option B” is financed through the training and qualification budget of the Hessian Ministry of Labor, Integration, Youth and Social Affairs, as well as through the Darmstadt Job Center and the City of Darmstadt.
Further information about the program is available from the Youth Employment Assistance Coordination Office at jugendberufshilfe@darmstadt.de and online:
More information on “Option B”
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/stip)
