Regional Education Network Bochum (RBN)

The Bochum Regional Education Network (RBN) is a partnership between the state of North Rhine-Westphalia and the city of Bochum. Since August 2008, it has been working to improve educational equity for children, adolescents, and young adults in Bochum. Its focus is on how to create the best possible conditions for successful educational trajectories.

The network brings together all stakeholders in the educational landscape—schools, daycare centers, educational providers, community organizations, parents, and many others. It fosters dialogue, strengthens collaboration, and ensures that local solutions are developed and implemented collectively. Particular attention is given to educationally disadvantaged children and youth, as well as their families. The guiding principle is: “Treat unequal situations unequally”—individualized support rather than one-size-fits-all approaches.

Areas of Focus for the Network

The RBN's work covers a wide range of topics. In Bochum, the following areas are addressed in a systematic and interrelated manner:

• School and Instructional Development

• Digital Education

• STEM Education

• Education for Sustainable Development (ESD)

• Cultural Education

• Individual support

• Inclusion and Integration

• Parental involvement

• Designing educational transitions

Bochum Regional Education Office

The Bochum Regional Education Office (RBB) serves as the network’s organizational and coordinating unit. It is part of the Education Networks Division within the Bochum City School Administration Office and serves as a central point of contact for everyone involved in education.

The Education Office supports projects, facilitates processes, and ensures that the network’s goals are achieved. It offers guidance, facilitates connections, and promotes the development of innovative educational programs in Bochum.