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Parents' anger: Dozens of proceedings against "trial lessons" for grammar school.

In Berlin, students with a grade point average lower than 2.2 must pass a "Probeunterricht" (a test procedure) to be admitted to a Gymnasium (high school). This new procedure, intended to restrict access to Gymnasiums, has sparked controversy and legal challenges. The Berlin Administrative Court has upheld the legality of the "Probeunterricht" in several urgent cases, rejecting complaints against the new barrier. Many more cases and lawsuits are pending before the court. According to the education administration, only a very small percentage (2.6%) of the students who took the "Probeunterricht" passed it. This has led to parental outrage and numerous legal proceedings against the system.

April 11, 2025
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Source: News4Teacher

Article Content

Parental Outrage: Dozens of Lawsuits Against "Trial Lessons" for Gymnasium – Is There a Better Way?

The German education system is under scrutiny again, with recent reports of parental anger over "trial lessons" (Probeunterricht) for Gymnasium admission in Berlin. If a student doesn't achieve a specific grade average, they have to pass this trial, which involves a series of tests, in order to enter Gymnasium. The Berlin Administrative Court has ruled this practice as lawful after dozens of procedures against it, but this decision has sparked numerous lawsuits, leaving many parents frustrated and concerned about their children's educational paths.

What's Happening?

In Berlin, students with a grade average worse than 2.2 must successfully complete a Probeunterricht to be admitted to a Gymnasium (selective academic high school). The Berlin Administrative Court has confirmed the legality of this procedure, dismissing complaints in ten preliminary injunction proceedings. However, this isn't the end of the story.

The court spokesperson stated that 20 more preliminary injunction proceedings are still pending, and a total of 36 lawsuits have been filed by affected parties. This indicates significant discontent with the current system.

The requirements are that students need a 2.2 grade average to get a Gymnasium recommendation, otherwise they get a recommendation for another school. Students who insisted on visiting the Gymnasium even with grades between 2.3 and 2.7 could still spend a trial year at the Gymnasium. This is now replaced by the Probeunterricht. Only 2.6 percent of the 1,937 students that participated in the Probeunterricht passed it.

The Problem with Traditional Education

This situation highlights the intense pressure and competition within the traditional education system. The focus on standardized tests and rigid academic standards can be detrimental to a child's overall development and well-being. Parents are rightfully concerned about the stress and anxiety these processes can inflict on their children.

BlitzFast: Reimagining Education for the Future

What if there was a better way? At BlitzFast, we believe there is! We are developing an innovative, fully AI-powered online school designed to reshape the future of learning. We understand the frustrations parents face with the current educational landscape and offer a flexible, secure, and personalized alternative.

Why Choose BlitzFast?

  • Flexibility: Learn from anywhere, anytime, at your own pace.
  • Personalization: Our AI-driven platform adapts to each child's individual learning style and speed.
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Not only does BlitzFast cover the German curriculum, but it also expands it, integrating entrepreneurship, AI, digital skills, critical thinking, and sustainability.
  • Safe and Supportive Environment: A stress-free, protected learning environment where children can thrive.

Beyond Traditional Academics

BlitzFast goes beyond simply preparing students for exams. We aim to equip them with practical skills that will help them succeed in an ever-changing world. Our curriculum fosters:

  • Creativity: Encouraging innovation and original thinking.
  • Independence: Developing self-reliance and problem-solving abilities.
  • Technological Proficiency: Equipping students with the skills to navigate and utilize modern technologies like AI.

From Frustration to Empowerment: A Parent's Vision

BlitzFast was born from the vision of Engin, a father of four who experienced firsthand the limitations of traditional schooling. Inspired by his desire to provide his children with a high-quality education, regardless of location, and motivated by challenges like bullying, he set out to create a truly transformative educational experience.

"I wanted to give my children the freedom to learn and grow in a safe and supportive environment, without the constraints of traditional schooling." - Engin, Founder of BlitzFast

BlitzFast is not just a school; it's a platform that empowers families, particularly those who are expats or digital nomads, to provide their children with an exceptional education without compromising their lifestyle.

Join the BlitzFast Revolution!

We are currently in development and seeking an exclusive test group of parents who want to help shape the future of education. By joining our newsletter, you will:

  • Gain early access to the BlitzFast platform.
  • Provide valuable feedback to help us refine and improve our offerings.
  • Be part of a community of like-minded parents who are passionate about education.

Be Part of the Change

We invite you to be part of this educational revolution! Together, we can create a learning environment that nurtures children's potential and prepares them for a bright future.

Ready to redefine education? Sign up for our newsletter and become part of the BlitzFast test group! https://blitzfa.st

Summary:

  • The current education system, as evidenced by the Probeunterricht controversy, can be stressful and limiting for students.
  • BlitzFast offers a flexible, personalized, and comprehensive alternative that prepares students for the future.
  • We are seeking parents to join our exclusive test group and help shape the future of education.
  • Sign up for our newsletter today! https://blitzfa.st

This article is based on content from News4Teacher. Visit the original source for more information.

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