Home and Hospital Schooling for Children During Long-Term Treatment in Germany
How does the school system ensure learning continues despite therapy?
When a child must stay in hospital or at home for a long period due to a chronic illness or lengthy treatment, families face a serious challenge: how can schooling continue without interruption?
Germany offers a structured solution: hospital schooling or home instruction (Krankenhausschule / Hausunterricht).
Who is eligible for home/hospital schooling?
It is typically available to children:
within compulsory education (Grundschule and Sekundarstufe I)
whose illness prevents regular school attendance
whose condition often lasts longer than 6 weeks
with approval from the treating doctor and the school administration
German nationality is not required. In some cases, visiting children receiving long-term treatment may also receive support depending on the state and circumstances.
What is a Krankenhausschule?
It is schooling provided inside major hospitals (often university hospitals), delivered by:
officially appointed teachers
in coordination with doctors and therapists
in small classrooms or, if needed, at the child’s bedside
After discharge, teaching may continue at home (Hausunterricht) either through the child’s original school or via a teacher organized by the local education authority (Schulamt).
How do families apply?
Typical steps include:
an official medical statement confirming inability to attend school
a written request from parents to the school or Schulamt
approval from the treating physician
an individual education plan (Förderplan)
Youth welfare services (Jugendamt) or hospital social services may assist with coordination.
Who teaches?
trained teachers experienced in working with ill children
often familiar with chronic conditions and psychological impact
closely coordinated with the child’s home school to cover core subjects
How many hours per week?
| Stage | Hours per week |
|---|---|
| primary school | 5–10 |
| lower secondary | 8–15 |
| exam classes (e.g., Abitur) | case-dependent, up to 20 |
Workload is adjusted based on the child’s daily health condition.
Which subjects are taught?
German
Mathematics
other core subjects as required
sometimes: a foreign language or science
The key principles are flexibility and gradual progress.
Is home instruction officially recognized?
Yes. It is:
recognized by each state’s education ministry
not considered a break from schooling
counted as educational participation
compatible with taking final exams if core requirements are met
What about children visiting Germany for treatment?
For longer treatments (e.g., over 3 months), families may:
request temporary instruction through a local school or hospital
join simplified teaching programs within the hospital
coordinate parallel online support with the home-country school
Families are advised to contact the Schulamt or local school as soon as possible.
Who organizes it in each German state?
Each federal state (NRW, Bavaria, Berlin, etc.) regulates it through:
the Schulamt or Bezirksregierung
specialized teams for children with health-related educational needs
official websites that often provide application forms
Summary
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does an ill child have a right to schooling? | Yes—at hospital or at home |
| Are teachers official? | Yes—specialized educators |
| Is it free? | Usually yes (for regular enrolled students) |
| What about medical visitors from abroad? | Partial support may be possible, state-dependent |
| Can final qualifications still be earned? | Yes—if core subjects are completed |
Our writers and editors strive to provide accurate information through extensive research and consultation of multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some information may be unconfirmed. Please treat this as initial guidance and consult relevant authorities for verified information.
