Berlin, the vibrant capital of Germany, is a city that’s rich in history and culture. It’s also home to a diverse international community, making it a perfect place for international schools to thrive. Whether you’re an expat planning to move to Berlin or a local looking for a global education for your child, these international schools offer top-notch education with an international perspective. Let’s dive in and explore the top 5 international schools in Berlin that you need to know.
1. Berlin International School
About the School
First on our list is the Berlin International School (BIS). BIS is an English-speaking school that caters to students from Kindergarten to Grade 12. It’s a part of the Stiftung Private Kant-Schulen gGmbH, a foundation that operates several educational institutions in Berlin.
The school follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, which is recognised worldwide and prepares students for a globalised world. BIS prides itself on its diverse student body, with students from over 60 different nationalities.
Facilities and Extracurricular Activities
BIS boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, a library, an auditorium, and sports facilities. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports and arts to clubs focusing on science, technology, and languages.
Compared to other international schools in Berlin, BIS stands out for its strong emphasis on community service and environmental sustainability.
2. John F. Kennedy School
About the School
Next up is the John F. Kennedy School, a unique bi-cultural, bilingual (German and English) school. It’s a public school that serves students from Kindergarten through to Grade 12.
The school follows both the American and German educational systems, offering students the opportunity to earn the German Abitur or the American High School Diploma. This dual approach provides students with a unique perspective and prepares them for further education in both countries.
Facilities and Extracurricular Activities
The John F. Kennedy School offers excellent facilities, including a library, a gymnasium, and a music room. The school also offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and various clubs.
What sets the John F. Kennedy School apart from other international schools is its strong commitment to fostering a sense of community and its focus on social learning.
3. Berlin Metropolitan School
About the School
The Berlin Metropolitan School (BMS) is the largest international school in the centre of Berlin. BMS offers an inclusive, diverse learning environment for students from Pre-School to Grade 12.
The school follows the IB curriculum and also offers the Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE). BMS is known for its innovative approach to education, integrating technology into the classroom to enhance learning.
Facilities and Extracurricular Activities
BMS features modern facilities, including a media library, a cafeteria offering healthy meals, and sports facilities. The school offers a wide array of extracurricular activities, including music, arts, sports, and various clubs.
BMS stands out for its focus on individualised learning, ensuring that each student’s unique needs and talents are recognised and nurtured.
4. Nelson Mandela School
About the School
The Nelson Mandela School is a diverse, multicultural school offering bilingual education in English and German. The school serves students from Grade 1 to Grade 13.
The school follows the Berlin State Curriculum, supplemented with the IB curriculum. The Nelson Mandela School is known for its commitment to social justice and intercultural understanding, reflecting the values of its namesake.
Facilities and Extracurricular Activities
The school offers a range of facilities, including a library, a music room, and sports facilities. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including music, drama, sports, and various clubs.
The Nelson Mandela School stands out for its strong sense of community and its commitment to fostering a love of learning in its students.
5. Berlin Brandenburg International School
About the School
Last but not least, the Berlin Brandenburg International School (BBIS) is an inclusive, coeducational English-language day and boarding school serving students from Pre-School to Grade 12.
BBIS follows the IB curriculum, offering all four IB programmes. The school is known for its rigorous academic programme and its commitment to fostering critical thinking and intercultural understanding.
Facilities and Extracurricular Activities
BBIS boasts excellent facilities, including a library, a performing arts centre, and sports facilities. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including music, drama, sports, and various clubs.
BBIS stands out for its boarding programme, which offers students from around the world the opportunity to live and learn in a supportive, multicultural environment.
Conclusion
Choosing the right school for your child is a significant decision. Each of the international schools in Berlin mentioned above offers a unique approach to education, catering to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a school that offers a bilingual education, a school with a strong focus on community service, or a school that offers a boarding programme, Berlin has it all.
Remember, the best way to get a feel for a school is to visit it in person. So, why not schedule a tour and see for yourself what these schools have to offer? Happy school hunting!
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