Junior School

The Junior School at the International School of Hamburg provides a comprehensive, differentiated learning environment for all students in Grades 1 (age 6) through 5 (age 10). Our students are active participants in the high quality learning experiences where they are appropriately challenged from our International English language curriculum. As learners in the Junior School, our students experience true enjoyment of learning and are encouraged to think critically and solve problems individually and within learning groups. Following the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), students learn to ask questions, reflect on their learning, celebrate diversity and continue to grow in their knowledge, skills and understanding in order to reach their full potential.

Our highly qualified teaching staff are committed to building a community of learners which fosters curiosity, respect, leadership, critical thinking, compassion and a life-long love of learning. Together, our Junior School is an international community of learners including students, teachers, parents and friends who nurture inquiring minds, compassionate hearts and balanced lives!

Our Academic Programme

Students participate in established and research-based programmes that include Reader’s and Writer’s Workshop, Math In Focus, based on the Singapore approach to Mathematics and the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), and the IPC, which integrates inquiry-based units in Science, History, Geography, Art, Technology, and International Understanding. Of equal importance are the IPC Personal Goals which highlight the critical role that personal and interpersonal skills play in a child’s development.

All Junior School students experience a cross-curricular programme that includes lessons taught by specialist teachers in Music, German, Physical Education, Library Skills, and Information and Communication Technology. Students learn to utilise integrated technology with confidence and responsibility, and build rich connections to the Hamburg community through local trips and outdoor education.

Connecting with ISH's Mission Statement, compassionate hearts and balanced lives, our Junior School Wellness Program is integral to our students' learning and development. This programme is integrated into all areas of our students day and includes the opportunity to participate in Mindfulness, yin yoga as well as learning more about global citizenship, diversity, digital citizenship, health and relationships.

Our Team of Educators

Teachers in the Junior School work collaboratively to provide the optimal learning environment for our students - one that utilises their collective skill and expertise, and puts student learning at the centre of everything we do. Professional development is a key element of ongoing teacher growth and training, and we hold the concept of life-long learning in high regard. Indeed, the Junior School at ISH was the first international school in Germany to follow the coaching model of professional development with two academic coaches in the area of Literacy and Math. From 15 different countries around the world, our teaching faculty and staff collaborate with students, parents and colleagues to provide a balanced, appropriately challenging and engaging learning environment in order to meet the needs of each student to support them in continuing to grow and reach their full potential.

The Junior School Experience

Class trips
Students in the Early Years and Junior School participate in day trips that support IPC learning and enrich their experience of local German culture. Students in Grade 2 also participate in an overnight local trip, and students in Grades 3, 4 and 5 participate in 3 to 5 day school trips in Germany.

Assemblies
Junior School students come together to participate in an Assembly every 4-6 weeks. Assemblies are an opportunity for our Junior School community to come together to celebrate the learning that has been happening in all areas of our program including PE, Music, German, EAL, IPC, Mathematics and more! Our Junior School Council leads each Assembly and students have the opportunity to share their learning. This is not only a wonderful experience to see the amazing learning our students have been engaged in, but also a great opportunity for our students to practise their confidence in presenting in front of a large audience. Parents are always invited to join in the celebration at each Assembly!

After School Activities
There is also a wide spectrum of exciting extra-curricular activities available for Junior School students after school. Our After School Care and After School Program Activities offer club activities such as Chess, Sport, as well as instructional activities such as Dance Ballet, and Hip Hop, Robotics and instrumental music. You will find more on these activities here.

Cultural Celebrations
As an international school we promote the understanding and appreciation of others cultures through recognition of the many annual celebrations and religious observations around the globe. Our Junior School Student Council, ISH Community and staff members work to enact initiatives and Junior School community events that make our school a fun and exciting place to be.