International School of Hamburg

The school is a non-profit, independent association dedicated to nurturing inquiring minds, compassionate hearts, and balanced lives. Its educational approach is rooted in the values of safety, kindness, responsibility, and respect, aiming to develop global citizens who lead lives of purpose. The school emphasizes student-centered learning, the innovative use of technology, and strong partnerships with parents to foster an inclusive, internationally-minded community.

The school offers a comprehensive English-language curriculum from early years through Grade 12. This includes the International Early Years Programme and International Primary Curriculum (IPC) for younger students, the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) for grades 6-10, and the IB Diploma Programme (IB DP) and IB Career-related Programme for grades 11-12. The school is also a candidate for the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP).

The school celebrates student success beyond standardized tests, focusing on developing inquiring, ethical, and risk-taking adults. Graduates consistently achieve strong results in IB Diploma and IB Career-related Programme exams, facilitating acceptance into prestigious universities worldwide. Alumni often report that the school helped them discover a love of learning and build confidence in their individuality.

The school provides English language development (EAL) and mild to moderate learning support, which are included in the tuition fees. It caters to a wide range of diverse learning needs and maintains small class sizes to ensure students receive a high level of support and care. In some instances, the school hosts learning specialists who provide services billed separately.

The school welcomes inquiries via its website, phone, or email to arrange personal visits or calls. The admissions process involves an online application and enrollment procedure, with individual class placements determined by the administration on a case-by-case basis. Families are encouraged to contact the admissions team to discuss their unique situation and determine if the school is the right fit.

The school year typically begins in late August and concludes in late June, with breaks for autumn, winter, and spring, as well as an end-of-year winter break. The calendar includes professional development days for staff and bridge days. Holiday camps are offered during the major school breaks, and the school provides a detailed holiday calendar for families.

Located on a 41,000sqm campus in Hamburg's green belt, the school features a 19,000sqm building with modern amenities. Facilities include a Performing Arts Centre with a 400-seat auditorium, seven science laboratories, the Saalfeld Family Library, and a modern cafeteria. Sports facilities comprise three gym halls, a fitness studio, a 100m running track, a full-size soccer pitch, and various multipurpose courts, with additional access to nearby tennis, cricket, hockey, and swimming facilities.

The school offers an extensive co-curricular programme for students aged 5 to 18, featuring a broad spectrum of activities including sports, arts, and community engagement. Notable programmes include the Duke of Edinburgh's Award and Model United Nations. Most activities run from 15:00 to 16:30, with options for after-school care until 18:00 and holiday camps during breaks.