Homeschooling, or home education, is an increasingly popular alternative to traditional schooling in many countries. In some parts of Germany, however, homeschooling remains illegal.
In this article we take a look at why homeschooling is illegal in Germany, the laws that apply to it, and what the current situation is like. We will also answer some of the questions that German parents and guardians may have about whether or not they can homeschool their children in their country.
What Is the Current Situation on Homeschooling in Germany?
Currently, homeschooling is illegal for German citizens living in the vast majority of the country. Despite the increasing popularity of homeschooling in other countries, Germany is one of only three EU countries where homeschooling is still outlawed. The other two countries are Austria and Sweden.
In Germany, homeschooling is regulated at the state level. Most states make it illegal for parents to educate their children outside of a state-run school.
This means that homeschooling is only possible in Germany if the parents have obtained official permission from the education authorities. The exception to this rule is the state of Bavaria, which allows parents to homeschool their children in certain circumstances. The German government has not yet passed any national laws that would legalize homeschooling, but Bavaria’s decision indicates a potentially changing attitude towards homeschooling in Germany.
Why Is Homeschooling Illegal in Germany?
There are a few reasons why homeschooling is illegal in Germany. The first is that the German government believes that the best environment for educating children is the classroom, and individualized education at home is not seen as a suitable alternative. The second reason is that the German government is concerned about the potential risk of creating educational inequality if homeschooling is allowed.
If homeschooled children do not learn the same material as their peers in state-run schools, they may fall behind or not receive the same level of education. Finally, the government seeks to ensure that children are not exposed to dangerous or inappropriate material while they are being educated at home.
Without a school or teacher supervising the homeschooling process, the German government believes that it is difficult to monitor what is being taught or learned.
What Laws Apply to Homeschooling in Germany?
There are several laws that apply to homeschooling in Germany. The first is the Education Act, which states that children must attend an approved state-run school and that parents cannot “organize full-time instruction” for their children at home. The second law that applies is the Educated Parental Duty Law, which requires parents to register their children for school by a certain age and to ensure that their children attend school.
The third law is the Care Duty Law, which states that children between the ages of 6 and 18 must attend school and that parents must ensure that their children attend all classes in order to receive an education. This law also prohibits all forms of homeschooling, including online courses and online teaching.
Finally, the Basic Law, or constitution, of Germany contains provisions which guarantee a right to education, and this includes the right to attend state-run schools. This means that homeschooling violates the constitution and is illegal in Germany.
What Is the Penalty for Homeschooling in Germany?
The penalty for homeschooling in Germany varies from state to state, but generally parents may be subject to fines, court proceedings, loss of custody, and/or jail time. In some states, parents who homeschool their children can be fined up to €20,000 for each child if found guilty.
In other states, parents may face criminal charges and could be sentenced to up to two years in prison. Additionally, if a court finds that a parent’s decision to homeschool endangered their children’s well-being, they may be denied custody of the children. If a court finds that a parent’s decision to homeschool was motivated by an unwillingness to meet their child’s educational needs, this may also be considered child neglect and result in criminal charges.
Are There Any Exceptions to the Rule That Homeschooling Is Illegal in Germany?
The only exceptions to the rule that homeschooling is illegal in Germany are in the state of Bavaria. In Bavaria, homeschooling is allowed in certain circumstances, most notably when a child has a medical condition that requires them to be taught from home in order to receive an education.
Parents who wish to homeschool in Bavaria must obtain permission from the education authorities, provide evidence that their child’s condition requires them to be homeschooled, and must register their homeschooling program with the authorities.
What Other Options Do Parents Have if Homeschooling Is Not Legal in their State?
If homeschooling is not legal in a particular state in Germany, parents may still have other educational options available to them. In some states, parents may be able to apply for an exemption from attending school or enroll their children in part-time or online courses. Additionally, some schools may be willing to make accommodations for parents who wish to homeschool their children.
Are There Any International Homeschooling Programs Available in Germany?
Yes, there are international homeschooling programs available to German families. These programs are offered by private schools and organizations, and many of them offer an international curriculum and allow students to take part in activities such as international competitions.
Parents who are interested in homeschooling their children with an international program should research the available programs to find one that best meets their needs.
Are There Any Home Education Support Groups in Germany?
Yes, there are a number of home education support groups in Germany. These groups offer a variety of resources and assistance to families who are homeschooling their children, including advice on the best methods and resources for homeschooling, assistance with curriculum design, and networking opportunities. Parents who are interested in joining a home education support group should search online or contact their local government to find out what groups are available in their area.
Are Homeschooled Children Eligible for Higher Education or Scholarships in Germany?
Homeschooled children in Germany may be eligible for higher education or scholarships if they can demonstrate that they can meet the same academic standards as their counterparts in state-run schools. many colleges and universities in Germany accept applications from homeschooled students and may consider awarding them scholarships if they meet the required academic criteria. Additionally, many private universities and organizations may award homeschooled students scholarships if they can demonstrate their academic ability.
Is Homeschooling a Long-Term Solution for German Families?
Homeschooling may be a viable long-term solution for some German families, especially in areas where homeschooling is allowed. However, it is important to remember that homeschooling is a major decision that should not be taken lightly.
Parents who are considering homeschooling their children should carefully weigh the pros and cons, consider their goals and lifestyle, research the resources available to them, and talk to other families who are already homeschooling before they make a decision.
Conclusion
Homeschooling is illegal in most parts of Germany, but there are exceptions in certain circumstances. Parents who are considering homeschooling their children should research the laws that apply in their state and consider their own lifestyle and goals before making a decision.
There are also resources and support groups available to those who decide to pursue the homeschooling route, which can make homeschooling a successful and rewarding long-term solution for German families.