The Stifterverband is calling for binding quality standards and a systematic qualification pathway for teachers entering the profession from outside the traditional route, in order to stop a drift toward lower professional standards. In a paper highlighted by the “Handelsblatt”, the organisation stresses the need for mandatory preparation before the first lesson and for tighter support during the initial stage of the career.
The backdrop is an acute and, at times, dramatic shortage of teachers, which makes side‑entry necessary. Yet too often there are no clear standards or structured programmes, creating a risk that these newcomers are de‑professionalised. “Side‑entrants carry great responsibility from their very first lesson” noted Bettina Jorzik of the Stifterverband in an interview with “Handelsblatt”.
According to Destatis, around ten percent of teachers in general education schools are side‑entrants for the 2023/24 school year. The Stifterverband’s recommendations include at least a three‑month pre‑qualification period, an expansion of part‑time continuing education, and a tighter link between university studies and classroom practice. It also calls for regular evaluation of programmes and for nationwide harmonised quality standards. The paper concludes that side‑entry should not be seen merely as a stopgap but as a viable alternative route into teaching, provided it is grounded on a solid foundation.