The German PES has contributed to improving the transition from school to working life in terms of professional orientation, counselling, financial support and matching for positions as apprentices. In terms of the German PES the young unemployed person must get employment within the period of 14 days and this will be reflected in the system. Disabled people are referred to special training in order to be integrated into the labour market. Being the first person to register for employment does not necessarily mean getting first preference. The employer has the discretion to appoint a suitable candidate for a job. However, the job counsellor would also make a recommendation to the employer, based on his or her assessment of the job seeker. Germany considers education as a long term investment for the state, particularly in stimulating the labour market.