Saxony to Cut and Eliminate Rural Bonus for Teacher Trainees

Teacher trainees in Saxony, Germany, are set to face significant reductions in financial support, including the elimination of a bonus intended to incentivize rural placements. The State Ministry of Culture announced that the so-called "Landzuschlag" (rural bonus) will be completely removed starting in August 2027, citing the state's budgetary constraints.

The rural bonus was introduced in 2019 and provided a monthly supplement of approximately €1,300 to trainees who voluntarily chose to complete their practical training at schools outside the major cities of Dresden and Leipzig. In return, these trainees committed to five years of service at the assigned school following their qualification. The ministry reported that around one-third of trainees utilized this incentive.

Further changes are being implemented sooner. As of February 2026, the bonus for trainees at grammar schools (Gymnasien) will be abolished entirely. For trainees at upper secondary schools (Ober- und Förderschulen), the monthly bonus will be reduced from around €1,300 to approximately €1,000. State Culture Minister Conrad Clemens stated that the current financial situation necessitates a more targeted allocation of funds, focusing on school types with the greatest need. A similar bonus for primary school trainees was already discontinued in February 2026, attributed to an anticipated decline in hiring needs due to falling birth rates.

The complete removal of the bonus from August 2027 is projected to save the state approximately €7.5 million in 2027 and 2028. The GEW education union has strongly criticized the decision, labeling it a "huge mistake." According to the union, the bonus was a crucial incentive for attracting new teachers to rural areas, where teacher shortages are most acute, and its elimination will exacerbate the problem.