Low German in school? This is how it looks in East Frisia - Low German dialect revives in schools across Lower Saxony's classrooms
Low German is gaining a stronger foothold in schools across Lower Saxony, particularly in East Frisia. The regional government wants the dialect to play a bigger role in secondary education, but challenges remain. Teacher shortages and packed timetables make it difficult to expand lessons.
In East Frisia, which includes Aurich, Leer, Wittmund, and the city of Emden, Low German is already part of daily school life. A recent survey of 200 schools found that 64% offer some form of the dialect, though full courses are rare. Most integrate it into German classes or run after-school clubs and trips.
As of 2025, around 150 schools in Lower Saxony have officially included Low German or Saterland Frisian in their teaching. This includes bilingual lessons, immersion programmes, and digital tools like apps. Eighteen primary schools now teach entirely in Low German as a second language.
At secondary level, nine schools in East Frisia offer graded electives, with four treating it as a standalone subject. The Plattdüütskbüro has pushed for mandatory Low German in primary schools to keep the dialect alive. Despite progress, exact participation numbers are still unclear.
The state's push to strengthen Low German faces practical barriers, from staffing gaps to limited class time. Yet with 46 certified schools and growing resources, the dialect's presence in education continues to expand. Officials and advocates are working to ensure it remains a living part of regional culture.
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