Nearly 5% of Classes in NRW Schools Canceled Without Replacement

A new report reveals significant teaching disruptions in North Rhine-Westphalia schools, with Gesamtschulen and upper grades hit hardest by teacher shortages.

• In the 2023/24 school year, 4.8% of classes in NRW schools were canceled without replacement, impacting students' education quality.
• An additional 10% of classes were covered by substitute teaching, while 'self-directed learning' accounted for 11.5% in gymnasiums and 13.2% in Gesamtschulen.
• Gesamtschulen reported the highest cancellation rates in grades 5-10, with 7.8% of lessons not taking place as scheduled.
• Teacher shortages, driven by high illness rates and insufficient staffing, were cited as the primary cause of disruptions, prompting calls for systemic reforms and increased hiring.
• Critics argue that current measures are ineffective, with opposition leaders and parent groups warning of worsening conditions as student numbers are projected to rise significantly by 2035.

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