The Legal Regulation of Instruments for Identifying and Supporting Gifted and Talented Pupils and Students in Germany

Abstract

This paper describes Germany’s policy and regulation of in the sphere of identifying and supporting gifted and talented schoolchildren and students. Particular attention is paid to the programmes of financial support for them, especially children and students from families living under difficult financial circumstances. The identification and support of such children and young people is analysed separately with respect to pupils schoolchildren) and students. The paper outlines the various German laws, foundations (scholarships) and other means aimed at supporting the gifted and talented. The German experience is estimated as successful and can be borrowed by other countries that currently are without such policy and regulation.