Children in Germany start school at the age of 6 and subjects are the same for all students from grade 1 to 4. After the 4th grade, they are separated according to their academic ability and attend one of three different kinds of schools: Hauptschule, Realschule or Gymnasium.

The Hauptschule (grades 5-9 in most German states) teaches the same subjects as the Realschule and Gymnasium, but at a slower pace and with some vocational-oriented courses. It leads to part-time enrollment in a vocational school combined with apprenticeship training until the age of 18.

The Realschule (grades 5-10 in most states) leads to part-time vocational schools and higher vocational schools. Students with high academic achievement at the Realschule can switch to a Gymnasium on graduation.

The Gymnasium (grades 5-13 in most states) leads to a degree called the Abitur and prepares students for university study or for a dual academic and vocational credential. Subjects offered here include classical language, modern language, and mathematics-natural science.

Beyond the Haupschule and Realschule lies the Berufsschule. This combines part-time academic study and apprenticeship. When the student successfully completes the apprenticeship program, he earns himself a certification in a particular trade or field of work.

No matter what kind of school a student attends, he/she must complete at least nine years of education. German children only attend school in the morning. School life in Germany also means more homework and very few extracurricular activities.

Sources

1. http://www.howtogermany.com/pages/germanschools.html
2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Education_in_Germany