The last decade has seen a significant upswing in discourse on cultural education. It is encouraged for all children and young people, but the implementation is to some point proving difficult as cultural education is not a defined technical or legal term. There is a wealth of responsibilities, stakeholders and opportunities in cultural education for children and young people at all - federal (national), state and community – levels.

Cultural education for children and young people includes looking at art and culture throughout history as well as contemporary youth culture. Promoting cultural and creative competences is an aim of all cultural education initiatives in Germany, irrespective of whether they are formal or non-formal programmes. All of the legal frameworks, political strategies and funding initiatives work with this goal in mind. While schools tend to focus on teaching knowledge, cultural institutions in particular offer opportunities to experience artistic works or cultural heritage. Non-formal cultural education for children and young people mainly encourages them to develop their own creativity. Opportunities are available across all genres, including (new) media, which allow children and young people to get artistically and culturally active.

Cultural education in Germany also includes promoting young people who wish to pursue their artistic and cultural talents and interests professionally.