The polytechnic school as a school form of secondary level II is currently facing the problem of a massive decline in the number of students. With its foundation as a "polytechnic course" in 1962 and its introduction in 1966, reflections on this special form of education are appropriate. The aim of the study is to present an introduction to the teaching and learning practice of a school form as a transitional education area into the world of work and/or further forms of education. In addition, perspectives of further education and training are of interest. As a neglected school type, perspectives for learners and teachers in connection with a teacher training are shown. For the author, aspects of the sub-areas of the polytechnic school are particularly topical, because they show current educational efforts in connection with pre-vocational education, political education and intercultural competence and support innovative aspects in the educational field of secondary level II.