The concept of Learning Time

Lernzeit (‘Learning time’) is commonly found in Germany. It is an open start to school in which younger students have time to come inside and prepare themselves for the day ahead. Often, this takes the form of daily organisational activities such as unpacking bags, checking the daily plan and getting learning materials out, which can all take longer for students who are still learning the routines and expectations of school. Additionally, it can be used for extra learning tasks to support those students who need or want it. Activities may include: reading to improve fluency, comprehension and vocabulary; drawing or Lego construction to improve fine motor skills; or maths games, amongst many possible choices. It serves to give children the space to develop independence and accountability, while completing the transition between play-based learning and academic structures.