The Nelson Mandela International School in Berlin offers a bilingual education in English and German, treating both languages with equal importance. At Secondary, we expect all of our students to have native language proficiency in English. We do not offer classes for learners of English as a foreign language. Enrollment requires students to demonstrate this native language proficiency on admission exams.
Diverse, Inclusive and International - Curriculum Design
Our curriculum for years 7-10 integrates units designed to engage students across varying levels of learning. It prepares students for the Berlin Middle School MSA exams, the Abitur, as well as the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBDP).
Project-based learning is a key component, emphasising collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. The internal curriculum aligns with the "Berliner Rahmenplan" as well as the British National Curriculum up to GCSE level. In Upper Secondary, we offer IBDP English Language and Literature and English Literature classes, or English Grund- and Leistungskurse as part of our fully bilingual Abitur.
Furthermore, we aim to represent the diverse perspectives of our student body in the works we study to live up to the demands of an international school with over 80 nationalities among students, teachers and parents. Next to a wide range of cultural and ethnic perspectives, we aim to represent our school’s diversity regarding gender, sexuality, social class, neurodiversity and ability. We are committed to making our contribution to our school’s work toward social justice and against racism, in particular. We understand that our curriculum must be under constant scrutiny and revision to reflect the needs of our school community and the society around us.
Focus on Literacy and Text Production
A strong emphasis is placed on reading and writing. Students study several works of literature and film every school year and engage with these works to enhance their understanding and critical analysis skills. This includes discussions on literary themes and their relevance to modern society, work with poetry and drama, including plays by Shakespeare and contemporary playwrights
Connected - Department Achievements
The English Department has spearheaded numerous initiatives that contribute to the school’s mission, such as winning a local competition on Shakespeare’s work against racism and participating internationally in the Mondialogo Competition and MUN debating conferences. Other projects include the "Theater und Schule" partnership, various dramatic productions, and creative writing projects that reflect our students' diverse backgrounds.
Future Directions
Continuing with the spirit of innovation and excellence, we aim to further prepare our students for future challenges, emphasising sustainability and technology in their projects. This overview encapsulates the ethos and accomplishments of the English Department at the Nelson Mandela International School Berlin, underscoring our dedication to academic excellence and societal contribution.