Schnevdingen KGS Introduces Foundation Stage for Grades 5 & 6
The KGS in Schneverdingen is set to introduce a foundation stage for grades 5 and 6 in the next school year. This follows the successful implementation of the same concept at the KGS in Wiesmoor. The foundation stage aims to simplify school choice for children and parents by delaying the selection of a school branch until grade 7.
The Ministry of Culture approved this innovative concept in April, basing it on the new KGS regulation of 2023. The idea was developed through extensive discussions involving parents, teachers, students, and the state school authority. The principal of the KGS in Wiesmoor, who has taught at the elementary level for eleven years, remains fully convinced of the concept, believing that the current separation in grade 5 occurs too early.
The foundation stage will last for an initial period of six years. During this time, 5th graders will be taught together in most subjects without prior selection of the school branch. The usual division into school branches will take place from grade 7, with the final decision being made by the conference at the end of grade 6. The school board and the general conference have both voted in favor of the foundation stage, with approval rates of 100% and 99% respectively.
The KGS in Schneverdingen becomes the second school statewide to introduce a foundation stage, following the successful implementation in Wiesmoor. This new approach aims to give children and parents more time to decide on a school branch, potentially leading to more informed decisions and improved student satisfaction.
