Hungarian educators propose reforms for primary and kindergarten systems

Educational experts and teacher unions in Hungary are proposing significant reforms to the early childhood and primary education systems. 14 specific recommendations for primary schools include implementing 35-minute lessons, longer breaks, reduced homework, and increased opportunities for movement and play. Education researcher Imre Knausz noted that while 35-minute lessons are a suggestion, a more creative environment could potentially support even longer sessions if student motivation and movement are prioritized over rigid attention.

Simultaneously, the Teachers' Union (PSZ) and the Democratic Teachers' Union (PDSZ) have released a joint professional plan for kindergarten reform. The proposal seeks to address staff shortages, excessive administration, and overcrowding by limiting group sizes to a maximum of 20 children. A key demand is returning the decision-making power regarding school readiness to parents and kindergarten teachers, rather than relying on centralized decisions from the Educational Authority. The unions argue that these changes are necessary to better address the individual needs of children and reduce the bureaucratic burden on educators.