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Youngsters with languages other than German serve in the younger grades

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Pupils who don't primarily speak German are present in the younger school grades
Pupils who don't primarily speak German are present in the younger school grades

Youngsters with languages other than German serve in the younger grades

In Baden-Württemberg, a differentiated and needs-based support structure is in place for children with non-German origin or family language. This structure, outlined in the region's law text, includes the Junior Class and Preparation Class as two components of a comprehensive overall support system.

The Junior Class is designed for children who lack the competencies to attend the primary school curriculum. These classes are intended to help them acquire the necessary skills through attendance. From the 2028/2029 school year, the majority of children with non-German origin or family language, such as those in the second or third generation, will be required to attend the Junior Class if they have corresponding support needs.

On the other hand, children with support needs beyond second language acquisition and not yet school-ready are required to attend the Junior Class. If a child's support need is due to a recent arrival, they participate in the support tailored to learning German in a "Preparation Class" from grade 1.

Minister of Culture Theresa Schopper has confirmed that children with non-German origin or family language are part of the "Junison Classes." She emphasised that these classes are an essential part of the differentiated support structure in place.

For children with no or minimal German knowledge, the appropriate support instrument is the suitable Preparation Class. It's important to note that children with non-German origin or family language are not excluded from Junior Classes.

The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport can be contacted via their Press Office or Contact Form for further information regarding these support structures.

It's crucial to remember that this new structure does not apply to children with a claim to a special educational offer according to § 5b paragraph 1 sentence 3 SchG.

This change aims to ensure that all children, regardless of their background, have the best possible start to their educational journey in Baden-Württemberg.

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