Every child should have the opportunity to discover their talents at school and face the future with confidence. This has been the guiding principle of Education Minister Claude Meisch’s policy for years. The priorities for the 2026/2027 school year, presented this Thursday, build on this foundation: schools that respond to children’s diverse needs, provide targeted support and give them strong foundations for life.
The recent PISA results show that further efforts are needed in reading, mathematics and science. With a carefully considered education policy, schools are taking responsibility through tailored learning pathways, quality teaching materials and greater day-to-day support. At the same time, helping children grow up in a changing world is a shared responsibility across society. Schools, parents, childcare services and community organisations all have a part to play.
More language pathways for greater opportunities
Linguistic diversity is part of Luxembourg’s identity. Educational provision has therefore been expanding for years, including through public European schools. From this school year, parents of children in Cycle 1.2, guided by their child’s teacher, will also be able to choose whether their child learns to read, write and do mathematics in German or French in Cycle 2. Children will remain together in the same class, with Luxembourgish as their shared language.
In secondary education, the range of French-medium classes is expanding. German-medium sections in classical secondary education are also planned as a pilot project from 2027/2028. The curricula and academic requirements will remain the same. The language of instruction should make learning more accessible to pupils. A national action plan will also promote lasting improvements in reading skills and a love of reading, both at school and beyond.
Using digital technology thoughtfully, while making more time for physical activity, creativity and friends, is becoming increasingly important. Building on the smartphone rules introduced in 2025, the minister is proposing a general smartphone ban in the lower years of secondary school. This proposal is being discussed with education partners. Meanwhile, pupils in 5e classes will receive a third hour of physical education each week. The Creative Lab programme will provide additional cultural and creative activities.
Support that reaches children
The new primary school curriculum is the result of extensive preparation, with contributions from around 1,200 participants from education and wider society. It will be introduced in Cycles 1 and 2 this school year, followed by Cycles 3 and 4 next year. Themes such as media, health and living together in a democracy will connect existing subjects. The subjects themselves, timetables and assessment principles will remain in place.
Specialist teams are being strengthened for children with specific needs, while services provided by specialist centres are being brought closer to families. Around 270 additional posts were created in 2026 to support inclusion in education. This helps the children concerned and supports teachers in their daily work.
The gradual extension of compulsory education to the age of 18 will be accompanied by more individual guidance. Additional provision will help young people who are at risk of dropping out or have not yet found an apprenticeship to build a path forward.
For the DP, these measures go hand in hand: supporting children’s development, backing the professionals who work with them and giving every young person a real chance of a bright future.
