Learning together

Inclusion means that everyone belongs.

In North Rhine-Westphalia, joint learning for children with and without special educational needs is enshrined in law (§ 19 SchulG NRW).

This means that all children learn together - regardless of their physical, mental or emotional abilities. The aim is to see diversity as a strength and to enable every child to participate as fully as possible in school life. Learning together not only strengthens academic development, but also social skills such as consideration, tolerance and teamwork. It creates a school climate in which all children feel welcome and valued.

What does that mean in concrete terms?

  • Children with and without disabilities learn together in one class.

  • Lessons are designed in such a way that everyone can keep up - through differentiated tasks, individual support and teamwork.

  • Special needs teachers, teachers and other specialists work closely together.

  • The school adapts to the needs of the children - not the other way around.

Why is inclusion important?

  • Equal opportunities for all: inclusive education promotes equity and participation.

  • Strengthening social skills: Children learn to accept differences and benefit from each other.

  • Legally binding: Germany has committed itself to inclusive education with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

How is inclusion implemented?

  • Individual support: learning objectives and methods are adapted to the needs of the children.

  • Support diagnostics: Teachers specifically analyze learning requirements in order to provide appropriate support.

  • Multi-professional teams: teachers, therapists and school social workers work together.

  • Further training: Schools receive support for staff training.

Challenges and opportunities

Inclusion is a long-term development process. It requires resources, openness and cooperation. Many schools in NRW - including in Bochum - have already embarked on this journey. They show that Inclusion is feasible - and enriching for everyone.

Tip: On the pages of the Ministry of Education NRW you can find further information, practical examples and support services for schools and parents/guardians.

Facts & figures on inclusion in NRW (as of 2023/24)

In NRW haben ca. 160.000 Schüler*innen sonderpädagogischen Förderbedarf (8 %), davon 110.000 im Gemeinsamen Lernen. Häufigste Schwerpunkte: Lernen, Sprache, soziale/emotionale Entwicklung. Über 4.000 Schulen beteiligt. Rechtsgrundlage: §19 Schulgesetz NRW. Ziel: Teilhabe, Chancengleichheit, Vielfalt (UN-BRK).