The Crisis in Music Education: Thuringia Struggles to Fill Music Teacher Positions
Inadequate supply of music instructors extends beyond MINT subjects, found in Thuringia. - Thuringia Faces Shortage of Music Instructors Beyond STEM Fields
It's not only the STEM subjects causing trouble: Thuringia finds itself in a pressing dilemma with a sharp decline in music teachers in the near future. As of now, there's an in-demand requirement for about 94 music teachers at primary and secondary schools in the state, according to the Ministry of Education's latest announcement. Over the past decade, the number of music teachers has dropped by approximately 25%, landing at 1,179.
Germany's education sector, including Thuringia, is grappling with a nationwide trend—fewer students applying for a music teaching degree. As a result, it's every second applicant that fails to accept the offered spot for a music teaching course at the University of Music in Weimar.
Tackling the shortage through continued education
Thuringia plans to tackle the music teacher shortage by offering continued education, allowing current teachers to gain the "teaching permission" for the subject. This past year, 22 individuals successfully completed the Thuringian Institute for Teacher Training's offer, despite originally lacking teaching qualifications for music.
On top of that, newly recruited music teachers receive special bonuses from the state if they opt to work in regions with a teacher shortage. This bonus amounts to ten percent of their initial salary, paid for five years. Minister of Education, Christian Tischner (CDU), has even considered offering these bonuses during teachers' training.
- Thuringia
- Music Education
- Teacher Shortages
- Erfurt
- BMBF
Keep in mind that this issue isn't exclusive to Thuringia. Other regions, such as Saxony, are also experiencing a shortage of teachers, stemming from factors like low birth rates, demographic changes, and an aging population. Potential solutions to address this crisis may include increased funding, specialized training, and partnerships with local communities.
- To offset the music teacher shortage, Thuringia is considering vocational training programs for community members, allowing them to gain the necessary qualifications and contribute to music education.
- In an effort to boost music education and self-development, the Thuringia Institute for Teacher Training offers vocational training for those lacking initial qualifications, providing opportunities for learning and growth in this field.
