Our Parents
At ISH we believe that it takes a team behind each successful student: the student, the teacher and the parents. We also understand that it is not easy to enter a new school, a new system and even often a new country - so we do everything we can to ensure that you feel welcome to the community at once.
"It is the parents continued dedication, commitment and engagement which makes the our school community a major part of the ISH experience."ALAN KNOBLOCH, HEad of School-
Parent Engagement at ISH
ISH has a long tradition and decades of experience of parents making a positive difference to our school life both from an individual and community standpoint. Our Alumni remind us on the latest Kids Gone Global podcast that coming together to celebrate a diverse variety of cultural holidays has been one of the defining memories of their school life.
Today more than ever parents juggle multiple roles and finding time to accommodate additional demands very often seems impossible. We would like to encourage you to look at your involvement at ISH as a time saver, as an investment that pays off in the long run by being connected to the community that shapes and influences your child’s life.
Getting Involved is Easier Than You Think!
At ISH there are countless ways to get involved, from supporting our school events, joining an activity, helping out during a field trip, offering your know-how, professional expertise or network, organising social events for the students outside of school hours to foster belonging, supporting as Class or Grade Reps, admiring the students’ achievements at school exhibitions, performances or applauding the ISH sports teams at sports events. Engaging in the community brings many opportunities:
Strengthen your Connection with Your Child/ren
When we participate in school activities, we gain unique insight into our child’s world. We get a firsthand look at their learning environment, meet their friends, and understand the dynamics of their school day and get an understanding of the big topics in education today. This involvement helps us connect more deeply with our children. They see us valuing their education and feel a sense of pride knowing we are part of their school life. Research shows that children with engaged parents are twice as likely to do well academically and are 25% more likely to complete higher education. (cf.Harvard Family Research Project)
Build a Stronger Community
Contributing to the ISH community is a great way to meet other parents and form meaningful relationships at events, on trips or on the side of the sports pitches. It creates a sense of community and belonging, especially in an international school setting such as ISH where many of us are far from home. Through school events, committees, clubs and activities, we can connect with others who share our experiences and values, building a support network that benefits not just our children, but ourselves as well.
Model Positive Behaviour for Your Child
Our involvement sets a powerful example for our children. It teaches them the value of giving back, the importance of community, and the idea that learning doesn’t stop at the classroom door. By contributing, we show them that education is a priority and that we are committed to their success. This mindset fosters an appreciation of service in our community, a love for learning and a sense of responsibility that will stay with them throughout their lives.
Enjoy a Fulfilling Experience Abroad
For many of us, being part of an international school community is a new experience. Participating helps us feel more at home in a foreign country or a new international environment. It allows us to share our own culture, and gives us a chance to learn about others. It’s a unique opportunity to contribute to a diverse, multicultural environment and enrich our lives and of those around us.
Develop New Skills and Knowledge
By getting involved, we have the chance to learn new skills, whether it’s learning to navigate the German administrative system and life in Hamburg, organising events, leading a committee, or simply understanding more about the education system. These experiences can be personally enriching and even professionally valuable. It’s a chance to grow and challenge ourselves in a supportive environment.
Influence School Decisions
When we engage with the school, we gain a voice in school matters and can help shape the policies, programmes, and initiatives that affect our children’s education. Our feedback and participation can make a real difference, ensuring that our school remains a welcoming, inclusive, and high-quality environment for all students. Head over to the “Governance” Table to learn more about the Board of Trustees.
Every bit of involvement makes a difference. Even a small commitment of time can have a big impact on your child, your family, and our school community. Joins us and find out.
