Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Nordrhein-Westfalen
Summary: If you're moving to Nordrhein-Westfalen with kids, choosing a school if often your first decisions and impacts where you'll live. Here are some popular bilingual and international schools in Nordrhein-Westfalen
Nordrhein-Westfalen (North Rhine-Westphalia) is a diverse and populous state in Germany, offering a variety of international and bilingual schooling options for expat families. With cities like Düsseldorf, Cologne, and Bonn, the region is well-equipped to cater to the educational needs of international communities. Among the most popular international schools are the International School of Düsseldorf and Bonn International School, both known for their comprehensive curriculums and multicultural environments.
International School of Düsseldorf
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Düsseldorf
Website: www.isdedu.de
The International School of Düsseldorf offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program from primary years to the diploma program. With state-of-the-art facilities, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a diverse student body, ISD provides a well-rounded education for expat children. The school emphasizes inclusivity and a global perspective, preparing students for higher education worldwide.
Bonn International School
Grades: Early Learning through Grade 12
Location(s): Bonn
Website: www.bonn-is.de
Bonn International School is another prestigious institution offering the IB curriculum. It boasts a supportive learning environment with modern facilities, including a media center, science labs, and sports complexes. The school's extracurricular program is rich, featuring arts, athletics, and various clubs, ensuring a balanced education for its international student community.
St. George's The British International School
Grades: 2 years old through Grade 13
Location(s): Cologne, Duisburg-Düsseldorf, and Munich
Website: www.stgeorgesschool.com
St. George's The British International School provides a British curriculum culminating in IGCSEs and the IB Diploma. With campuses in Cologne and Duisburg-Düsseldorf, it is conveniently located for expats in Nordrhein-Westfalen. The school is known for its strong pastoral care, excellent academic track record, and a broad range of extracurricular activities.
Cologne International School - Internationale Friedensschule Köln
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Cologne
Website: www.if-koeln.de
Cologne International School, also known as Internationale Friedensschule Köln, offers bilingual education in German and English. The school follows the IB program and places a strong emphasis on individual support and cultural diversity. With modern facilities and a wide array of extracurricular activities, it provides a nurturing environment for students from all over the world.
ISR International School on the Rhine
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Neuss
Website: www.isr-school.de
Located in Neuss, ISR International School on the Rhine is an accredited, private school that offers an international education with a strong academic program. The school follows the IB curriculum and prides itself on its SABIS® educational system, which prepares students for competitive universities worldwide. ISR boasts a multicultural environment with a focus on character development and social responsibility.
Akademie für Internationale Bildung (AIB)
Grades: Various programs for different age groups
Location(s): Bonn
Website: www.aib-studyabroad.org
The Akademie für Internationale Bildung offers a range of international educational programs, including study abroad opportunities for high school students. While not a traditional K-12 school, AIB provides a unique educational experience with a focus on cultural immersion and global learning, making it an interesting option for expat families seeking alternative educational pathways.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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