28-06-16 Closure of kindergartens in Germany

In response to media reports regarding the cessation of operation of Greek kindergartens abroad, and particularly in Wuppertal and Bielefeld, Germany, the education ministry notes that as of 2014, the said kindergartens were operating as “incorporated classes in the local primary schools, and not as independent school units”, while reports to German authorities over the last few years noted that there were absolutely no students registered in these schools.

Following an anonymous report, German authorities conducted an on-site inspection and found that the facilities where these kindergartens were located did not meet the preconditions for the issuance of an operating license, and so the cessation of operation was ordered.

Consequently, these school units cannot operate in the upcoming school year.

Greek authorities are cooperating with the competent German authorities to find an alternative solution for the next year. At the same time, arrangements are being made to enroll students in local schools.