106 CultureShock! Austria
an inflammation of the brain and meninges. The threat is
especially great for those living near the Vienna Woods, the
Wachau, Burgenland, Styria and Carinthia. The series of shots
is given in the following sequence:
First injection: late winter/early spring
Second injection: after an interval of 2–8 weeks
(protection starts)
Third injection: 1–12 months later (protection complete)
Booster injection: every 3–4 years thereafter
Go to the District Health Office or Bezirksgesundheitsamt
for your tick shots. They can be obtained cheaply at certain
times of the year.EDUCATION
The Austrian educational system is well thought out but
complex. It begins with kindergarten at about three years of
age. Children start primary school (Volksschule) at about age
six and stay for four years. Then there is a choice between
four types of schooling to create a well-trained workforce of
young adults.
Vocational school—five years regular secondary school
(Hauptschule) followed by three years vocational training
with salary.
University path—eight years upper-level secondary
school (Gymnasium) followed by final exams for the
diploma (Matura).
Trade school (secretarial, bookkeeping)—four year
Gymnasium, then five years trade school.
Electronic school (Höhere Technische Lehranstalt)—four
years Gymnasium or Hauptschule, then five years electronic
study, followed by final exams for the diploma Matura.
Religion is taught in the public schools for 12 years. The
children attend classes for their specific faith as long as it
is an officially-recognised religion. However, the classes are
not mandatory and some parents choose not to have their
child attend. Public schools usually register students in early
March. Children cannot be turned away based on gender,
income, language or religion.