Based on the opportunities for improvement identified after the last phase of the project, our second phase final report to the Ministry of Schools and Education included a number of recommendations for further improvement of the Preparatory Service.
Some of these proposals have already been incorporated in the new regulations for training in the preparatory service, see the "Regulations on the preparatory service and the state examination for teaching qualifications in schools" as of November 8, 2024.
- Two interviews, one initial and one prospective: Instead of one interview, there are now two fixed initial and prospective interviews. These will take place at specific times to help prospective teachers better pursue the goals defined in the first interview.
- Mandatory self-directed learning groups: What was previously voluntary is now compulsory. The self-directed learning groups will be introduced as an integral part of the training in the teacher training centres, which will reduce the organisational effort and ensure that no additional time is spent on their implementation.
- Elimination of the portfolio: In view of the high cost and low use of the portfolio, it was removed from the preparation service. This should reduce the burden on trainee teachers and avoid unnecessary administrative work.
The ongoing project will continue to analyse whether these changes have the desired effect. The results of the current phase of the project and a final evaluation of the reform are expected at the end of 2025. This will also show whether the changes in the initial conditions resulting from the practical semester have an impact on the development of trainee teachers in the preparatory service.