New educational concept: orientation classes for refugee children in Austria

New educational concept: orientation classes for refugee children in Austria

In order to promote the integration of newly immigrated students in Austria, orientation classes are now being introduced. These classes are to be created especially for children and adolescents from asylum and subsidiary persons who often come into the country with little or no school experience. Education and integration spokeswoman Sigi Maurer from the Greens welcomes this Initiative and emphasizes: "Every child should arrive in our school system and the German language" ( ots.at ). Nevertheless, it makes it clear that the implementation is not viable without additional resources and qualified staff.

The importance of the orientation classes

The introduction of the orientation classes is particularly important, since many of the affected children not only fight with language barriers due to their escape experiences, but also lack basic social skills. The classes are intended to provide newcomers to first orientation in the Austrian school system and convey basic knowledge of German as well as essential skills such as dealing with pencils or scissors. Furthermore, it is emphasized to shape relevant values for living together in a democratic society, including respect, equality and tolerance, as well as reports.

The exact framework of these classes and the legal basis for their introduction must still be decided in parliament. Education Minister Christoph Return confirmed the urgency of this measure. It is crucial for the Greens that the implementation takes place in school, so that each school can develop individual solutions that meet the needs of their students. "Only with real school autonomy can tailored solutions to be developed on site that really help the children," concludes Maurer.