The german School System explained

Summary

This video offers a clear explanation of the German school system, aimed at newcomers. It covers the stages of education, from elementary school (Grundschule) through secondary schools like Hauptschule, Realschule, Gymnasium, and Gesamtschule. The video also outlines the paths students can take after each stage, including vocational training or university eligibility. It provides helpful information for both young students and adults seeking to return to education through evening schools or colleges. The goal is to simplify the structure and choices within the German educational system, helping viewers better navigate it.

Takeaways

• 😀 The German school system can be confusing for newcomers, especially if you're unfamiliar with how it differs from your home country.
• 😀 Children attend elementary school (Grundschule) from grades 1 to 4 (or 5 and 6 in some states), where they learn basic subjects like reading, writing, and arithmetic.
• 😀 Education in Germany is free and funded by taxes, meaning it is available to all children regardless of their background.
• 😀 After elementary school, students move on to secondary schools, which include different types of schools depending on their academic ability and interests.
• 😀 Teachers recommend the most suitable secondary school for each student based on their skills and abilities.
• 😀 The main types of secondary schools are Hauptschule, Realschule, Gymnasium, and Gesamtschule.
• 😀 Hauptschule education ends after the 9th grade, and students typically begin an apprenticeship or vocational training afterward.
• 😀 Realschule education concludes in the 10th grade, also allowing students to pursue apprenticeships or vocational colleges but not university admissions.
• 😀 Gymnasium is for students with higher academic achievements, and it prepares them for university studies with a more demanding curriculum.
• 😀 To attend university in Germany, students must pass the Abitur (high school diploma), which is earned at Gymnasium or Gesamtschule after grades 12 or 13.
• 😀 Older individuals who dropped out of school can retake exams through evening schools or colleges to obtain their school certificates or diplomas.

Q & A

What is the first type of school children attend in Germany?

Children in Germany first attend elementary school, also known as Grundschule, from grades 1 to 4 (or 5 and 6 in some federal states).

Is attending Grundschule mandatory for children in Germany?

Yes, attending Grundschule is mandatory for every child in Germany.

What subjects are taught at Grundschule?

At Grundschule, children are taught basic subjects such as reading, writing, and arithmetic (sums), with all instruction being in German.

How is the German school system funded?

The German school system is funded through taxes, meaning that education is free for all students, paid for by everyone in the society.

What happens after children complete Grundschule?

After completing Grundschule, students move on to secondary schools. The type of secondary school they attend depends on their abilities, interests, and skills.

What are the main types of secondary schools in Germany?

The main types of secondary schools in Germany are Hauptschule, Realschule, Gymnasium, and Gesamtschule.

What is the difference between Hauptschule and Realschule?

Education at the Hauptschule ends after the 9th grade, while Realschule education ends after the 10th grade. After these schools, students can either start an apprenticeship or attend a vocational training college.

What qualifications are required to attend university in Germany?

To attend university in Germany, students need the Abitur (high school diploma), which is typically obtained at a Gymnasium or Gesamtschule after completing the 12th or 13th grade.

What is special about Gymnasium in the German school system?

At Gymnasium, students study a broader range of subjects, including more foreign languages. School hours are longer, and the pace of education is faster compared to other schools. It prepares students for the Abitur and university entrance.

How can older individuals who dropped out of school complete their education?

Older individuals who dropped out of school can attend evening schools or colleges to retake exams and obtain school certificates or diplomas, allowing them to complete their education later in life.