GEW Survey of Special Needs Schools on Daycare Reveals Major Deficits - NRW's special needs schools face crisis ahead of 2026 full-day care law
Special needs schools in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) are struggling with staff and space shortages well before a new law takes effect. From summer 2026, first graders—including those at special needs schools—will have a legal right to full-day care. Yet many schools are already cutting back on afternoon sessions due to a lack of resources.
Currently, 42% of NRW's special needs schools with mandatory full-day programs must reduce or cancel at least one afternoon session each week. Even schools offering voluntary afternoon care face capacity issues, despite the law not yet being in force. The Education and Science Workers' Union (GEW) warns that the situation will worsen without urgent action.
The region has around 1,100 unfilled positions for special education teachers. There is also a shortage of subject specialists, making it harder to provide adequate support. GEW is pushing for more training in special education, expanded multidisciplinary teams, and better facilities.
Looking ahead, GEW argues that all special needs schools should eventually adopt mandatory full-day models. But without more staff and space, schools will struggle to meet the growing demand for extended care.
The legal right to full-day childcare begins in 2026, yet NRW's special needs schools are already under pressure. Staff shortages and limited space mean many are reducing afternoon sessions now. Without more teachers and improved infrastructure, the system risks falling further behind as demand increases.
