Employers want sweeping changes to teacher training

By Michael Gardner. The German Employers’ Federation (BDA) has called for sweeping changes to the country’s teacher training system. The organisation warns of a possible shortage of teachers if the profession does not remain attractive.
Training for teachers in higher secondary education (comprising Gymnasien and similar institutions) is usually supposed to take nine semesters and covers at least two subjects. The old first State Exams concluding the courses have largely been replaced by Germany’s new bachelor and masters degrees.
The second State Exams follow a 12- to 24-month internship (Referendariat) at a school, accompanied by further theoretical training at a teaching seminar (Lehrseminar). The second phase of training prepares candidates for a civil service career as a teacher.
Study programmes for other teachers (at primary schools or secondary education institutions) follow the pattern above, but are shorter, lasting seven to a maximum of nine semesters. Teacher training programmes are run at universities and similar higher education institutions up to the first State Exams.
The new structure, based on the Bologna reforms, incorporates two phases at university level, and a further 12- to 24-month preparatory stage at schools. Read more...