Education is highly valued in Germany, and the country has a strong education system. Children start primary school at age six, and they attend primary school for four years before moving on to secondary school. Secondary school is divided into two tracks: the Hauptschule, which is more vocational, and the Gymnasium, which is more academic and leads to university. Students can attend the Gymnasium if they pass an entrance exam.
In addition to public schools, there are also private and international schools in Germany. Private schools charge tuition fees, but they often have smaller class sizes and more individualized attention. International schools offer education in various languages, including English, and are a good option for expat families.
Higher education in Germany is also highly regarded, and the country is known for its excellent universities. There are both public and private universities, and the public universities do not charge tuition fees for undergraduate degrees. However, students are required to pay a small semester fee, which covers administrative costs and the cost of a public transportation ticket.
Overall, the education system in Germany is well-regarded and offers a variety of options for families with children.
Primary schools in Germany
Primary schools in Germany are called Grundschulen. They are generally attended by children between the ages of six and ten, and are compulsory for all children. Children usually attend the Grundschule in the area where they live, and parents can choose to send their child to a different school only in exceptional cases.
The curriculum at the Grundschule includes German language and literature, mathematics, natural sciences, social studies, music, art, and physical education. In some states, foreign languages are also taught at the primary level.
Teaching at the Grundschule is usually conducted by a single teacher, who is responsible for teaching all subjects to the same class of students. The teacher provides individual support and works with the students to identify and develop their strengths and weaknesses.
Grundschule is the foundation for a child’s education in Germany, and it prepares them for the transition to the secondary level. After completing the Grundschule, students typically move on to one of several types of secondary schools, depending on their academic ability and interests.
Secondary schools in Germany
In Germany, secondary education is divided into two main types of schools: “Gymnasium” and “Gesamtschule”.
Gymnasium is a type of school that provides the highest level of secondary education and prepares students for university. Admission to Gymnasium is based on academic performance and is generally considered to be the most prestigious form of secondary education.
Gesamtschule is a type of comprehensive school that offers a combination of different types of secondary education. Students can earn different types of degrees depending on their performance, including the Abitur, which is equivalent to a high school diploma and qualifies students for admission to university.
Other types of secondary schools in Germany include:
- Realschule: a type of school that offers a more practical education and prepares students for vocational training or entry-level jobs
- Hauptschule: a type of school that offers basic secondary education and prepares students for entry-level jobs or vocational training
- Förderschule: a type of school for students with special educational needs
In addition, there are also private secondary schools in Germany, which often offer a more specialized education and may be attended by students from all over the world.
International schools in Germany
Germany is home to many international schools that cater to expat families and provide education in languages other than German. These schools offer a wide range of curricula, including American, British, French, and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. Some of the most popular international schools in Germany include:
- Berlin Brandenburg International School (BBIS) in Berlin
- Frankfurt International School (FIS) in Frankfurt
- Munich International School (MIS) in Munich
- Berlin British School (BBS) in Berlin
- St. George’s The British International School Cologne (SGC) in Cologne
- International School of Stuttgart (ISS) in Stuttgart
- Dresden International School (DIS) in Dresden
- Bonn International School (BIS) in Bonn
- International School of Hamburg (ISH) in Hamburg
- Bavarian International School (BIS) in Munich.
These schools are generally well-equipped with modern facilities, and provide students with a multicultural environment. The tuition fees for these schools can be quite high, so it’s important to research and budget accordingly.
Childcare in Germany
Childcare in Germany is widely available and of high quality. German law mandates that all children over the age of one are entitled to a spot in a public daycare facility (Kindertagesstätte or Kita), which is heavily subsidized by the government. The cost of daycare varies depending on the state and the parents’ income but is usually affordable.
There are also private daycare options, such as daycare centers and childminders. Private daycare can be more expensive, but it may offer more flexibility and a more individualized approach.
In addition to daycare, there are after-school programs and holiday programs available for school-aged children. The costs of these programs can vary depending on the provider.
It is worth noting that the demand for daycare in Germany is high, and in some areas, there may be waiting lists for spots in public facilities. Parents are advised to start the search for a daycare spot as early as possible.