Funding Initiative 5: Structured Full-Day Program for German Language Classes

The funding initiative supports public institutions in Bavaria in establishing bound full-day programs for German classes at primary and middle schools. Funds from the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) 2021–2027 provide up to €30,000 per German class and school year as a non-repayable grant. The goal is to improve the educational opportunities of lateral entrants with a non-German mother tongue by compensating for language and migration-related deficits and accelerating the transition into regular classes. In addition to the regular half-day instruction, a socio-educational specialist is financed, who provides pedagogical and supervisory services for at least 15 hours per week. Through close support and promotion during the full day, individual learning progress is supported and the training and career potential of the participants is activated at an early stage.

The project duration extends from September 1 to August 31 of the following year, with a minimum class size of 13 participants (exceptions possible). Eligible to apply are school authorities who have the concept approved by the Bavarian State Ministry for Education and Culture and the responsible State School Authority. Eligible expenses include costs for teachers and additional educational and supervisory staff as well as residual costs. To apply, a detailed project concept together with the completed forms must be submitted in the IT system “ESF Bavaria 2021.” Provided budget funds are available, funding can commence as early as the 2023/2024 school year. Support is provided by the ESF implementation office of the Government of Lower Bavaria, which also handles monitoring and publicity requirements.