Schools (starting at age 6)

All children living in Germany are subject to compulsory schooling between the ages of 6 and 15. State schools do not charge tuition fees and there are schools under state, private, denominational sponsorship as well as schools for girls or boys only.  

Compulsory schooling begins with primary school (1st - 4th grade). After primary school your child's teachers will make a recommendation as to which type of secondary school is suitable for your child. The most common types of secondary schools are:

• Hauptschulen (non-academic secondary school from grade 5-10)
• Realschulen (mid-level secondary school from grade 5-10)
• Gymnasien (academic secondary school from grade 5-12/13)
• Gesamtschulen (comprehensive schools, which combine various types of schools under one roof) 

Further information about the German School System can be found here.

The choice of the school is made after a personal visit at the school and after a consultation with the school directory board. The academic year starts after the summer holidays in August or September. Most classes are held during the morning hours.

Several primary schools also offer child-care (Offene Ganztagesschule) until the afternoon. In "Offene Ganztagsschulen" children are provided with lunch and spend the rest of their time with home work or playing. These childcare facilities are usually organised by external providers and are subject to fees.

An overview of all schools in Gelsenkirchen can be found at the School Administration Office.

Information about international schools and schools with and bilingual courses in and around Gelsenkirchen can be found below: