Educational pathways

The transition to secondary school follows after the one- to three-year initial phase of school education and generally four more years in a primary school. This transition is also possible after four years if that appropriate levels of performance have been achieved. More information

Learning in the first years of its life is of great importance for your child's future life. Child education, parenting and care of your child in your family is supplemented and supported in daycare centres and day care. Girls and boys are encouraged in their social, emotional, physical and mental development right from the start. More information

The continuous improvement of the teaching and learning culture is a focus of Berlin’s primary schools. All-day school offerings create time to change educational offerings in terms of content and method and to support all students individually. More information

In the sixth school year children and their parents have to make an important decision: choosing a secondary school. Primary schools help parents make this decision because every child should attend the school that best suits their skills and abilities. More information

After primary school, students can go to an integrated secondary school (ISS) or a Gymnasium. The integrated secondary schools emerged from the previous secondary school (5-9), intermediate school and comprehensive schools during the school structure reform. More information

Those who attend a Gymnasium can obtain the Abitur after 12 school years and are thus entitled to study at a university or higher education institution. Many Gymnasiums have pedagogical focuses, e.g., with regard to science, music, sports and language. More information

The Comprehensive school was set up as a pilot project during the 2008/2009 school year. Since 2018 the Comprehensive school has been firmly incorporated in the School Act as a type of school that includes all school levels. More information

In a school with a special educational focus, also known as a special needs centre or special needs school in common usage, only children and young people are taught who have special educational needs. More information

After general school education, many students continue with vocational preparation and vocational training. Here you will find information on vocational training programmes and the opportunities to obtain an entrance qualification for universities of applied science. More information

The time after completing school is often initially an orientation phase. School leavers are faced with the transition to work, or they may want to go to university after finishing school. You might still have a number of questions. What subject should I study? More information

The second-chance education offers everyone who wishes to continue their education a wide range of opportunities to complete their school leaving certificate or obtain a higher level certificate. More information

Students are supported in their career and study orientation, starting at school. Dual learning therefore offers all students, both those with learning difficulties and those with special interests, good prospects for a career path. The Berlin economy supports dual learning by providing work placements in companies. More information