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Primary education system in Germany (Grundschule) step by step
What is Grundschule?
Grundschule is the compulsory primary school in Germany and represents the first educational stage for children. It usually lasts from 1st grade (1. Klasse) to 4th grade (4. Klasse).
In some states such as Berlin and Brandenburg, it extends to 6th grade (6. Klasse).
1. Age and enrollment (Einschulung)
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Children start primary school at around 6 years old.
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Parents receive an official invitation from the municipality about one year before the start.
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A school readiness examination (Schuluntersuchung) is conducted.
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The first school day is celebrated as Einschulungstag, a special event that includes giving a Schultüte.
2. Duration and grade levels
| Grade | What the child learns |
|---|---|
| 1. Klasse | Alphabet letters, numbers, basic arithmetic, basics of reading and writing |
| 2. Klasse | Improving language and math skills, fluent reading, simple writing |
| 3. Klasse | Start of simple science, grammar, text analysis skills |
| 4. Klasse | Assessing readiness for the next level, guiding the child based on academic performance |
3. Main school subjects
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German (Deutsch)
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Mathematics (Mathematik)
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Religion / Ethics (Religion / Ethik)
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General studies (Sachkunde)
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Sports (Sport)
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Art and music (Kunst / Musik)
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In some schools: English (Englisch) from grade 3
4. Assessment and grades
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In grades 1 and 2, descriptive evaluations are often used instead of grades.
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From grade 3, the grading system usually goes from 1 (very good) to 6 (insufficient).
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A performance report (Zeugnis) is issued at the end of each term.
5. School hours
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School usually starts between 7:30–8:00 a.m. and ends around 12:00–1:30 p.m.
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Some schools offer after-school care (Hort) until 4:00 p.m. or later.
6. What happens after 4th grade?
At the end of 4th grade, the type of secondary school is determined based on:
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academic performance
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teacher recommendation (Übergangsempfehlung)
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parents’ preference (varies by state)
Possible school types:
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Hauptschule (until grade 9 or 10)
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Realschule (until grade 10)
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Gymnasium (until grade 12 or 13 – for university)
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or Gesamtschule (comprehensive school combining the three tracks)
7. Parents’ role
| How parents can support | Impact on the child |
|---|---|
| Talk to the child daily about school | Builds confidence and encourages learning |
| Cooperate with teachers and attend meetings | Builds a strong link between family and school |
| Provide a quiet environment for homework | Improves focus and achievement |
| Read stories and do educational activities at home | Strengthens language and cognitive skills |
8. Special support for migrant children
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Providing supportive language lessons (Sprachförderung) at school
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Possibility to join support classes (Förderunterricht)
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Close cooperation between the school and Jugendamt to monitor the child’s development
ـ* The team of writers and editors on the website strives to provide accurate information through intensive research and reviewing multiple sources when writing articles; however, some errors may appear or some information may be unconfirmed. Therefore, please consider the information as an initial reference and always refer to the competent authorities to obtain confirmed information.
