Starting German School: What You Need to Know
Understand what German schools expect, how to support your child and what to focus on during the first weeks.
Who this workshop is for
For international parents whose child is starting or has recently started a German school.
Whether your child is in Klasse 1 or just transitioned mid-year, you'll leave with a clear understanding of what to expect and how to help.
What you'll learn
- What matters most during the first weeks
- How much German your child really needs
- What teachers expect from parents
- How to strengthen your child's confidence
- Which mistakes international families can avoid
How it really works
When primary school ends, the path splits — after Grade 4 in most states, after Grade 6 in Berlin and Brandenburg. Understanding these tracks early is one of the biggest advantages international families can have.
Grundschule
Primary School
Klasse 1–4 in most states · Klasse 1–6 in Berlin and Brandenburg
All children start here. Foundation in German, Maths, Sachkunde.
Gymnasium
Academic track
Klasse 5–12/13 · start varies by state
University entrance
Realschule
Intermediate track
Klasse 5–10 · start varies by state
Apprenticeship / further schooling
Hauptschule
Basic track
Klasse 5–9/10 · start varies by state
Vocational training
Note: Many federal states also offer the Gesamtschule (comprehensive school) combining all three tracks. The Gymnasium recommendation is a key milestone — and it's not set in stone.
Hi, I'm Maria
I'm a public school teacher and founder of AYKEN German School. I help international children build the German they need for school tasks, texts and answers — and the confidence to use it in class.
Reserve your free place
Only a few fields — it takes 30 seconds.