The school system in Saarland is simple – it would be strange to see something complicated in such a small federal land. But there are some peculiarities, explained by the historical and geographical connection with France. Some schools are full-day schools with compulsory attendance four days a week until 4 p.m.
Expat’s life
Changes in the educational system in Baden-Württemberg
This year, two rather significant changes have taken place in Baden-Württemberg: firstly, the gymnasiums are switching back to 9 years of learning, and secondly, they are again trying to limit the free choice of the type of secondary school. One is connected with the other: it is believed that increasing the number of years will attract those parents who are dissatisfied with the intensity of the current gymnasial education.
Elections in Germany 2025
In a couple of weeks, there will be snap elections in Germany, as a result of the autumn collapse of the traffic light coalition. Usually I try to look at the programs from a distance, but this time the emotions around the elections are off the charts and the parties are not making the process any easier.
What’s new in Germany 2025. Consumption
As a sweetener to the ever-increasing levies, we have some novelties designed to simplify and improve our lives.
But let’s start with the bad this time.
What’s new in Germany 2025. Finance
The traditional column: how much more we will pay in the coming year. The main changes occurred in the previous reporting period, so in 2025, we will primarily be dealing with letting the dust settle.
Let’s start with the good news. We will still get something, but the amounts are small and completely eaten up by the price increase.
What is Antolin
I am periodically asked what is Antolin, as people have heard that it’s a good thing or that it’s recommended to use it at school. Most of my children’s teachers, however, are not enthusiastic about Antolin, and I will briefly explain why below.
Special schools and inclusion for kids with speech delay in Germany
In Germany, there are different forms of education for kids with speech delay and speech development problems. These can be pure special schools for children with speech problems, general special schools for children with special needs, and inclusion (education in regular classes). In each specific federal state, this can be only one of the options or a combination of them.
In this post I will explain why these special schools for kids with speech delay are nothing to be afraid of, what is good about them, how they differ from regular schools and inclusion and where to find them in different federal states in Germany.
Сommunal and European parliamentary elections in Germany 2024
As usual, municipal elections and European parliamentary elections in Germany are held jointly. I don’t know what the level of participation will be, but the level of advertising for these elections is very high: literally every pillar is covered with posters. In this topic, we will sort out all small and big parties, study the unusual principle of communal voting and find out who votes for what. You may be surprised and learn something new about your favorite political party, and adjust your preferences not only for the European level.
Is interest income taxable in Germany? Bank bonuses and interest income in declaration
After a fairly long period of interest rate drought, the banking situation has returned to more normal. Interest income began to flow into savings accounts again, and banks began to lure clients with bonuses. What does Finanzamt think about this? In this topic, we will consider when and how to document interest income and bonuses in the German tax declaration.
Vocational training in Germany – looking for Ausbildung
Have you considered pursuing vocational training in Germany because you can’t find a job in your field and don’t know where to start?
This information will also be useful if your child is approaching 10th grade, and it’s time to decide what path to take. Remember, Abitur, the university admission qualification, can be obtained not only at the gymnasium. Let’s explore what official sources offer us. By the way, a lot.