FAQs
Schwarzenegger:
what connection is there between the present Governor of California, and the city of Graz? Schwarzenegger was born at Thal (a village some 8 miles out of Graz), and went to school here. It was at Graz that he famously began his regime of body-building. Among other mementos, the city's main sports stadium was named after him, but lost the name again a few years ago - due to local protests about Governor Schwarzenegger's role in the continued use of the death penalty in California.
Violence/bullying:
is there any incidence of violence, e g of bullying in schools?
It exists here (as everywhere); there is awareness and outspokenness among teachers and many members of the public, while the media's role may be more problematic. Measures of prevention and positive change are in place, or being developed.
What is the position of the Catholic church in Austria?
It is the church of a large majority of Austrians; in line (on the whole) with current Vatican policies; with a sizeable body of people in Styria and in Graz that are of a liberal, humanistic persuasion.
Any other religious communities, at Graz?
There is a relatively large Lutheran church at Graz (and other towns in Styria), with many social and artistic activities. At Heilandskirche Graz, there are a club room (for numerous student functions), an experimental theatre, a kindergarten - Other religious faiths include Methodists and other small Christian groups; Jews, with a recently rebuilt synagogue; and a Muslim group (a faith recognised in Austria since the days of the Monarchy).
Church and state
There is church - state separation in Austria, though its exact degree is a controversial question. As regards our Catholic University College of Education, see our Mission Statement, which affirms our Christian values, our openness and non-discrimination.
Any teaching practice in non-Catholic schools?
The great majority of schools in Graz (and in Austria as a whole) are non-denominational, state schools.