Franconian International School

The school is committed to high-quality, inquiry-based learning that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and international-mindedness. Its core values—Caring, Curiosity, Respect, Integrity, and Belonging—guide the community in creating a nurturing environment. The school emphasizes the International Baccalaureate’s Approaches to Learning (AtL) to equip students with the versatility and resilience needed to navigate a globalized world.

The school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum: the Primary Years Programme (IBPYP) for primary students, the Middle Years Programme (IBMYP) for Grades 6 to 10, and the Diploma Programme (IBDP) for Grades 11 and 12. The academic program is supported by an integrated ICT curriculum based on ISTE standards, requiring iPads for Grades 4–7 and laptops for Grades 8–12. Additionally, Grade 12 students may complete a mandatory Math Vector unit to achieve recognition for the German Allgemeine Hochschulreife.

Graduates earn the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma and the FIS High School Diploma. The IB Diploma is recognized as the Allgemeine Hochschulreife, allowing students to pursue tertiary education at publicly recognized institutions in Germany. Students are prepared for global success through a focus on critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, and the development of a 21st-century skill set.

The school provides dedicated support services, including English as an Additional Language (EAL) instruction, counseling, and general learning support. These services are integrated into the school's educational framework to meet the diverse needs of the student body.

The school accepts students regardless of race, sex, religion, nationality, or ethnic background, with a preference for those with an international background. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient English language proficiency, as it is the language of instruction. The admissions process includes an online application, potential interviews, and placement testing, with a six-month probationary period for all new students.

The school operates on a structured academic calendar, with specific dates for vacations, school events, and GISST (German International Schools Sports Tournament) competitions. Families can subscribe to the school calendar via iCal or Google Calendar to receive updates on important dates and events.

The purpose-built campus in Erlangen features modern classrooms with interactive whiteboards, three libraries, and five science laboratories for Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Sports facilities include two gyms with an integrated climbing wall, a football pitch, an all-weather court, and an athletics area. The campus also provides dedicated art rooms with a kiln, performing arts spaces including an Aula and theater, and secure playgrounds for different age groups.

The school offers an After School Activity Program and an Instrumental Program. Students participate in service learning through CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) and other initiatives, as well as competitive sports through GISST and local championships. Additional opportunities include field trips, such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award expeditions and curriculum-related visits to sites like BMW Welt.