More than 37,000 children start first grade

In Berlin, school is starting on Monday for first-graders.

On the Saturday before, they traditionally celebrated their first day at school with parents, relatives, teachers and headteachers. More than 37,000 children are starting first grade, which is about the same number as in previous years, according to the Berlin education administration.

Numerous new schools built this school year

"In view of these figures, I am particularly pleased that the Berlin school construction offensive is having an impact and that almost 8,000 additional school places have been created this school year thanks to numerous new school buildings," said Senator for Education Katharina Günther-Wünsch (CDU). "I wish all new school starters lots of fun at the school enrolment celebrations, enjoy learning and that you make good friends at your school."

Number of pupils at an all-time high

The new school year officially began last Monday after the summer holidays. However, first-graders in the capital usually start a week later. The number of pupils at public and independent general education schools in Berlin has risen to its highest level for 25 years. Education Senator Günther-Wünsch had already pointed out during the summer holidays that the classes would be correspondingly full.