- Increase in pupil count observed in northern regions of Germany
With the commencement of the new academic year on Monday, predictions suggest a surge in the student population at Schleswig-Holstein's 794 public general and vocational schools. As per the latest estimate by Education Minister Karin Prien (CDU), around 372,300 students are expected to attend these schools, marking an addition of around 3,300 students compared to the previous year at the Kiel Lilli-Nielsen School.
Approximately 25,700 kids will also be joining school in the upcoming week, representing a growth of approximately 1,200 first-graders compared to last year, as stated by Prien. Additionally, around 1,300 children will commence in the "German as a Second Language" classes in primary school.
Most teaching roles filled
Minister Prien reported that only 99 teaching positions remain vacant in the state, accounting for just 0.5% of the approximately 20,250 teacher roles. "Our efforts and the numerous initiatives from the teacher recruitment action plan are bearing fruit," said Prien, highlighting the improved teaching staff situation.
Prien attributed the improved staffing scenario to an increase in study places and the number of trainee teachers since 2017. However, she pointed out that temporary factors like sickness, parental leave, family care leave, and sabbaticals continue to cause teaching shortages, requiring substitute teachers.
The new school year will bring an increase in first-graders, with approximately 1,200 additional students compared to the previous year. This information was shared by Education Minister Karin Prien.
The surge in student population, as predicted for the new school year, includes around 25,700 new students and an addition of 3,300 students at the Kiel Lilli-Nielsen School.
