Secondary school

The secondary school serves grades 5-10 (lower secondary). Total enrollment is around 100 across grades. The curriculum closely aligns with German state of Thuringia standards. Core subjects include German, English, Math, Sciences, Humanities, Arts, PE and more. German language acquisition has special focus with 5 weekly hours. Class sizes are small, averaging 12-15, allowing individualized teacher attention and support.

Student Support

For non-native German speakers, an additional 2 hours weekly of targeted DaF lessons supplement core lessons to build language skills. For ~15% Ethiopian students, supplementary classes in Amharic language and "Civics" focus on ethics and citizenship. Ethiopian students take the mandatory Grade 8 Ethiopian exam at the end of 8th grade, with support staff helping prepare.

Academics

Subject and Curriculum

The academic curriculum covers core subjects with increasing depth and complexity across grades. Subjects include German, English, Math, Sciences, Social Studies, History, Music, Art, Ethics, PE, and introductory Tech/CS. French added in 6th grade as a second language. Electives like Robotics, Dance and Seminars provide enrichment.

Diplomas and Degrees

Students pursue German qualifications: certificate at end of Grade 9, certificate at end of Grade 10. DSD I exam taken in 8th grade certifies German level, DSD II in 10th certifies advanced level B2/C1. DSD II recognized for German university. Completing Grade 10 allows progression to upper secondary for more qualifications.

Enrichment Programs

Method Days are an enrichment element where students twice yearly practice competencies like research, collaboration, communication, creativity, time management, and presentations. The method curriculum scaffolds skills by grade. Additional clubs further enrich in areas like dance, theater, band, soccer, karate based on interests.

Classes and Teachers

Each grade level from 5 through 10 has an assigned head classroom teacher who oversees students' academic progress and social-emotional growth. Subject and enrichment classes are taught by teachers specialized in those disciplines.

Schedule

The typical academic schedule runs from 7:40am to 3:30pm on weekdays. The day includes 8 class periods of 40-45 minutes each, with breaks for recess and a 40 minute lunch period. Core subjects take place in the morning, while electives, enrichments, sports, and clubs are scheduled in the afternoon periods. This provides a balanced experience.

Future Planning

Career Preparation

Starting in Grade 9, career and study counseling helps guide students in their future trajectories. This includes interest surveys, resume/application writing workshops, mock interviews, and personalized advice on post-secondary pathways. Students are supported in identifying and planning for appropriate higher education programs.

Internships

A highlight is the 2-week internship that 9th graders undertake. This allows them to gain real-world workplace experience in a potential field of interest. Teachers closely monitor student progress during internships, visit sites, and ensure learning outcomes are achieved. The internship program enables practical career exploration.