School system and compulsory schooling
The German school system
The German school system consists of various stages of education: primary school (Grundschule), secondary school (Hauptschule, Realschule, Gymnasium or Gesamtschule) and vocational schools. Attendance at primary school is compulsory for all children and usually lasts four years. After that the parents decide together with their children which secondary school will be attended. As a rule compulsory schooling in Germany lasts nine to ten years.
The German school system is organised federally, which means that the federal states (Bundesländer) are responsible for shaping the school system. There are therefore differences between the various federal states in the structure and the requirements of the school system.
Schools in Germany place great emphasis on a comprehensive education that conveys not only knowledge but also social competencies such as the ability to work in a team and a sense of responsibility. Tuition usually takes place in class groups in which pupils are taught together.
The school types
In Germany there are various school types that pupils can attend depending on their performance and interests. Here is a brief list:
- Grundschule: The Grundschule is the first school type and usually lasts four years. Here children are taught basic knowledge and skills in various subjects.
- Hauptschule: The Hauptschule is a secondary school and usually lasts five to six years. Here pupils are prepared for the Hauptschulabschluss.
- Realschule: The Realschule is likewise a secondary school and usually lasts six years. Here pupils are prepared for the Realschulabschluss.
- Gymnasium: The Gymnasium is a secondary school and usually lasts eight to nine years. Here pupils are prepared for the Abitur, which is the highest school-leaving qualification in Germany.
- Gesamtschule: The Gesamtschule combines the Hauptschule, the Realschule and the Gymnasium in one school. Here pupils can achieve different qualifications depending on their performance and interests.
- Vocational schools: Vocational schools offer practice-oriented training in various occupational fields. Here pupils can acquire a vocational qualification alongside a school-leaving certificate.
Compulsory schooling in Germany
In Germany there is a compulsory schooling requirement, which means that all children and young people of school age must attend a school. Compulsory schooling usually begins at age six and ends, depending on the federal state, between 16 and 18 years of age.
Parents are obliged to enrol their children in school and to ensure that they attend classes regularly. If parents do not fulfil their schooling obligation they can be subject to fines or other sanctions.
Compulsory schooling is intended to ensure that all children and young people receive a basic education and are prepared for later life. It is therefore an important instrument for guaranteeing educational justice and equal opportunity.