Camp der Champs Brings Horsepower to Vocational School
Stuttgart, May 2025 – In May, the Camp der Champs training program made a stop at the Vocational-Technical School (GTS) Offenbach — and for the first time, it was integrated directly into regular vocational school classes. Fourteen automotive apprentices participated, testing their knowledge in realistic diagnostic scenarios directly on engines. The goal of the project is to incorporate modern vehicle technology into classroom instruction and to actively support young talent through practical training and motivating competition.“Our collaboration with GTS Offenbach shows how we can directly integrate innovative learning formats into vocational training — practical, motivating, and embedded in the daily school routine. This allows us to promote young talent in a targeted way and sustainably strengthen the quality of training,” explains Yaser Al-Huthi, Head of Workshop Concepts at ATR SERVICE GmbH.
Training Meets Competition
The heart of the program is the combination of modern automotive knowledge, structured troubleshooting, and the added motivation of competition. Vocational teacher Norman Syed, who brought the project to the school, reports: “The apprentices were highly motivated and even worked voluntarily beyond regular class hours.” Those who excel in the camp with speed and precision can qualify for the final competition in Hamburg in June 2025 — an extra incentive that, according to Syed, “gives technical skill a stage.”
Lasting Learning Impact
GTS principal Robert Börner emphasized the importance of such programs for modern education:
“Our apprentices were able to apply and deepen their subject knowledge and test it under competitive conditions. This not only supports their technical development but also boosts their confidence — something that pays off noticeably when applying for jobs.”
Additionally, Börner pointed out that the key skills promoted at the camp — such as independent work, problem-solving, and precise analysis — align closely with what training companies expect. These messages, he said, are especially impactful when delivered by external trainers.
Students Give Positive Feedback
The new learning format was also well-received by the participants.
“I learned a lot, especially about fault diagnosis, and the competition really motivated me,” said one student in summary.
The bottom line of this pilot project: Innovative partnerships between schools, training providers, and the automotive industry can make a significant contribution to securing future skilled workers — right in the classroom.
About ATR SERVICE GmbH:
ATR SERVICE GmbH, based in Stuttgart, is the concept hub behind the workshop and retail systems AC AUTO CHECK and Meisterhaft. It is responsible for developing concept modules and services, quality assurance, and nationwide standardized implementation. For more information, visit www.atr.de