Credit: Shutterstock

On Monday 23 March 2026, Luxembourg’s Ministry of Education, Children and Youth launched an action plan to strengthen inclusion in primary education in Luxembourg.

Since 2017, the government has reformed the support system to promote school inclusion. Authorities increased staff numbers from 645 in 2017 to 1,902 in 2025 and introduced support teams for pupils with specific educational needs (ESEB), as well as specialised teachers and assistants (I-EBS and A-EBS). According to the ministry, these measures have strengthened individual support in schools and improved coordinated, multidisciplinary care. 

The ministry noted that, despite significant efforts in recent years, the support system for pupils with specific educational needs continues to face a number of challenges. Society has evolved, along with the needs of pupils and the realities faced by schools.

The ministry conducted a broad consultation process in January and February 2026. Around 140 representatives took part, including directors of primary education and competence centres, trade unions SNE and SEW, the national parents’ representation, the Ombudsman for Children and Young People (OKAJU), as well as specialised teachers working with I-EBS pupils.

Participants identified several key challenges. These include managing pupils with extreme or inappropriate behaviour that disrupts teaching or pose risks, reducing waiting times for support and expanding alternative schooling options.

In response, the ministry has proposed an action plan with several measures. These include:

  • the introduction of a crisis intervention plan in schools;

  • strengthening I-EBS and A-EBS resources;

  • improved cooperation between stakeholders;

  • the regionalisation and expansion of competence centre services;

  • stronger prevention through early support in primary education;

  • more consistent support for pupils and their families through the ONE-Schouldéngscht service;

  • the creation of a substitute staff reserve for ESEB;

  • reform of the National Inclusion Commission;

  • additional recruitment to implement the new measures;

  • the launch of a new portal dedicated to school inclusion.