Education is considered as a very important part of life in Europe. It is home to hundreds of schools, universities and colleges, which would include some of the most popular schools in the world. Across Europe, however, educational institutions vary in a wide range of aspects. There are also some similarities such as the inclusion of some German lessons (alemania.ch/de/warum_wir.html) and a German courses (www.alemania.ch) or more in their curriculum.

In England, education is compulsory for all children from the ages of 5 through 16 which they can receive through state schools, independent schools, or homeschooling. The education of children in England is typically divided into two stages: primary school, which is attended by children aged 5 through 11 years old; and secondary school, which is attended by children aged 11 through 16, and sometimes up to 18 years old.

About 94 per cent of pupils in England, and the rest of the UK, receive free education from public funds, while 6 per cent attend independent fee paying schools or homeschooling. Even children who are homeschooled receive some German lessons or are encouraged to take up a German language course (Sprachkurse deutsch). Here are the two main types of schools in England.

State Schools

About 93 percent of all the children in England attend state schools. State schools basically do not charge any fees, as they are funded through taxes. Most of these schools are organized by LA or Local Authorities.

Parents of children who go to state schools are expected, however, to make sure that their children have pens, pencils, rulers and other school supplies. Parents also need to pay for the school uniforms, along with any necessary sportswear of their children. As for the specialized equipment, books and examination fees, they are generally covered by the school.

There can also be some fees that are charged for music lessons as well as for board and lodging during residential trips. A state school could also ask for voluntary contributions from parent for school-related activities; however, no pupil should be left out of an activity in the event that his or her parents are unable or refuse to contribute.

Independent Schools

About 7 percent of the children in England attend independent schools for their education. Independent schools are also known as public schools and private schools. Parents and guardians pay for their children if they have them attend these schools. Among the most famous English public schools would include Harrow, Eton and Winchester.

Although there are many kinds of schools in England and in Europe, most of them usually include some German lessons or German language courses in their curriculum. There are also grammar schools across Europe which offer more extensive studies in German lessons through German language courses.