Lehrämter

Lehrämter is the term used in German-speaking education systems to describe the training and official posts for school teachers. It encompasses the various tracks that qualify individuals to teach at different school levels and in different subjects, as well as the public positions held by teachers in the state system.

The typical path combines university studies in a teaching subject with education sciences and a practical phase in schools. After completing university exams (Erstes Staatsexamen in many states), candidates enter a practical teacher training period (Referendariat) lasting roughly one to two years, culminating in the Second State Examination. This licensing process grants the teaching license and eligibility for service as a teacher in public schools.

Within Lehrämter, there are distinct tracks corresponding to school types: Lehramt an Grundschulen for primary education; Lehramt an Sekundarschulen (Sekundarstufe I and II) for lower and upper secondary education; Lehramt an berufsbildenden Schulen for vocational schools; and Sonderpädagogik for special education. Teachers train in one or more subjects (Fächer) and typically complete studies in educational sciences alongside subject-specific pedagogy, with a major and often a minor. The exact requirements and combinations vary by federal state.

In practice, Lehrämter positions are usually state-funded civil service roles; after qualification many teachers obtain permanent positions in public schools. Policy discussions continue on issues such as teacher shortages, training duration, and modernization of study and internship structures to adapt to changing educational needs.