Types of school in NRW
Transition from elementary school to secondary school: school types in NRW
After primary school, the question arises as to which secondary school your child should attend. A good joint decision depends on your child's talents and inclinations, but also on the school profiles of the local schools. This article provides you with an overview of the different types of school and options.
What happens after elementary school?
The change from elementary school to secondary school is an important decision for parents and children. You will receive a recommendation in a consultation with the elementary school teachers in Year 4. The elementary school recommendation is not binding for parents in North Rhine-Westphalia. However, it is a good guide, as the experienced teachers can assess your child's performance well. However, the final decision is up to you.
You can choose from a range of different school types in North Rhine-Westphalia:
On the Internet portal of the NRW Ministry of Education you will find detailed descriptions of all school types on offer in North Rhine-Westphalia with the qualifications that can be obtained.
What criteria determine the school career recommendation?
The elementary school teachers assess academic development in the following areas:
However, it should always be borne in mind that every child is unique and develops differently. The permeable school system in North Rhine-Westphalia therefore makes it possible for all children to change school type during their careers, depending on their academic development.
What role does the possible focus of a school play?
The type of school is not the only decisive factor in the transition to lower secondary level. The possible focus of a school can be important for the choice of school. Each school defines the specific goals, focal points and organizational forms of its educational work in its school programme. For example, a school may have a special focus on the arts, sports, languages or natural sciences that is particularly suited to your child's personal talents and inclinations. Parents can find information about the selected school on its website. In addition, information events and open days offer you and your child a good opportunity to get a personal impression of the school.
How do parents make a good choice?
Which secondary school your child should attend after elementary school is an important decision. The right type of school should match your child's ability and willingness to learn. Once the right type of school has been determined, criteria such as the range of courses on offer and the school's educational concept should be taken into account. Deciding on a suitable school profile enables your child to be supported in a way that is appropriate to their talents. Many parents also look at other criteria such as a short journey to school, extracurricular activities, lunchtime meals and childcare services.
How do we involve our child in the decision?
The decision about the next educational path should not be yours alone. It is advisable to let your child have a say in the transition. If you are in close contact with your child during the decision-making process, you can find out what your child wants and what their expectations are. Use the open day to visit the potential school together. Afterwards, you can talk to your child about whether they felt comfortable and what they liked or disliked. An open exchange about the school alternatives will enable you to come to a good decision together. The best prerequisite for learning success is that your child feels included and comfortable at secondary school.
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