Everything you need to know about racism in schools and the role of the Schulamt in protecting you in Germany
Schools in Germany are meant to be safe spaces for learning, growth and social interaction. Unfortunately, they can also become places where students experience racist or discriminatory behaviour – sometimes from classmates, but also from teachers or school staff. That is why tackling racism in schools is so important, and why the school authorities (Schulamt) play a central role in protecting pupils.
Common forms of racism in schools include:
Bullying or insults because of ethnic origin, skin colour or religion
Unfair treatment in class or biased grading
Discrimination in school activities or class trips
Excluding children from groups or projects because of their appearance, name or beliefs
The Schulamt is the local school authority responsible for supervising public schools in a given region. Its tasks include:
1. Monitoring compliance with the law
Ensuring that schools follow federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination and racism
Overseeing that equal treatment is respected in everyday school life
2. Receiving complaints
Students, parents and teachers can submit complaints directly to the Schulamt
Incidents of racism or discrimination can be reported in writing or verbally
3. Investigating incidents
The Schulamt reviews reported cases and contacts the school management
It collects information from all parties involved and evaluates the situation
4. Taking corrective action
Depending on the severity of the case, the Schulamt may:
recommend or require anti-racism and diversity training for staff
arrange psychological or social support for affected students
initiate administrative steps, such as formal warnings or transferring staff members
Step by step:
Talk to the school first
Try to resolve the issue at school level (class teacher, school social worker, head teacher).
Document the incident
Write down date, time, place, persons involved and possible witnesses
Keep e-mails, messages or written comments as evidence
Submit a written complaint to the Schulamt
Send it by e-mail, regular mail or deliver it in person
Describe the incident objectively and in detail
Attach copies of any supporting documents
Yes, for example through:
child and youth protection organisations
local anti-discrimination centres
counselling services for migrants and refugees
NGOs committed to combating racism and promoting diversity
Children and young people are particularly well protected:
The German Basic Law (Grundgesetz) guarantees human dignity and equality before the law.
The school acts of the federal states (Schulgesetz) prohibit discrimination and bullying in schools.
General principles of equal treatment guide how schools must deal with diversity.
Schools are supported by a variety of programmes, such as:
workshops and project days against racism
intercultural and integration projects
lessons on democracy, human rights, tolerance and respect
These activities help create a climate of respect and reduce racist attitudes early on.
Racism has no place in German schools. School law, the constitution and the Schulamt exist to protect you and to ensure a safe, fair learning environment. If you experience injustice or discrimination, remember: you are not alone – there are clear structures and people who can support you.
Key German terms
Schulamt – local school authority / education office
Diskriminierung – discrimination
Mobbing – bullying
Schulgesetz – school law / education act
Grundgesetz (GG) – German Basic Law / constitution
The editorial team of this website strives to provide accurate information, based on careful research and multiple sources. Nonetheless, errors or incomplete information cannot be entirely ruled out. The contents of this article are therefore intended as an initial guide only. For binding information, please always consult the competent authorities.
