On Monday, Luxembourg's Ministry of Education, Children and Youth, presented details of the results of two questionnaires undertaken at the end of 2015 (as well as previously in 2013) on the issue of English-language schooling in Luxembourg, one aimed at HR divisions within companies and one for employees and parents in general.
The presentation of the results included identification of the areas that require attention, in order to improve the quantity and quality of English public schooling available in Luxembourg.
Louise Crosby stated that in oreder to gain a full picture, the Ministry also met with relocation companies and other organisations involved in education, both directly and indirectly. The 2013 survey included responses from 85 companies which undertook 1,500 relocations, of which 75% involved children (1,428 children, of which 85% of families would prefer English-language schooling. The companies also indicated that they expect an increase in relacation, going forward. Of the companies involved, 26% paid 100% of the school fees, with 27% paying part of the school fees; in the 2015 survey, these fell to 20% and 15% respecively.
In 2013, 66% responded that schooling affects companies' growth, with the 2015 figure increasing to 84%. Of the free comments in the surveys, the issue of English being the main language regarding schooling was highlighted.
Over 800 employees responded to the survey; 27% of children are enrolled in Luxembourg public schools, 16% at the European School, 15% at the ISL, 13% at St George's, etc. Of the parents who responded, 58% speak English at home. On the issue of perceived difficulties with the Luxembourg public school system, 87% identified the issue of language(s).
Vocational training was also addressed in the survey, with only 18% of parents being not interested in such for their children.
In summary, there is a significant demand for English-language schooling in Luxembourg. The underlying issues include there not being enough offers to supply demand and private schools are running out of capacity, with the issue of tuition costs and language barriers also highlighted.
Louise Crosby from Luxembourg's Ministry of Education, Children and Youth (MENJE) was guest speaker at Monday's ABAL Luncheon at the Sofitel in Luxembourg-Kirchberg, addressing the topic of English schooling available in Luxembourg within the public educational domain. She also acknowledged that the Luxembourg government is aware of the plans of various companies and organisations in Luxembourg in order to increase their staffing numbers, and is therefore aware of what additional plans need to be instigated in Luxembourg to provide additional options and capacity for English-language schooling.
Earlier at the event organised by American Chamber of Commerce in Luxembourg (AMCHAM), Paul Schonenberg addressed the issue of voting eligility in this year's US Presedential Election, as well as welcoming new members and guests.
Photo by Geoff Thompson (L-R); Paul Schonenberg, AMCHAM Chairman; Louise Crosby, Luxembourg Ministry of Education, Children and Youth
