Lesen Sie jetzt in der RP App weiter: Neue Privatschule in Düsseldorf will früher als geplant starten
Lesen Sie jetzt in der RP App weiter: Neue Privatschule in Düsseldorf will früher als geplant starten
Mittwoch, 23. September 2026
ISR Family Fun & Sports Day 2026
ISR Family Fun & Sports Day 2026
Last Saturday, we were delighted to welcome many families to our ISR Campus in Neuss for this year’s ISR Family Fun & Sports Day – an exciting day filled with sports, activities, community spirit, and plenty of fun for participants of all ages!
Throughout the day, the children had the opportunity to take part in a wide variety of sporting activities, including Football Penalty Kick, Dodgeball, Beach Volleyball, Basketball, Sprinting, Jump Rope, Egg & Spoon Race, and Rope Pulling. The different stations brought plenty of energy to our campus and gave our young participants the chance to challenge themselves, stay active, and enjoy some friendly competition.
We were also very pleased to welcome many of our dedicated partners, who enriched the program with a variety of activities for the children. These included Musicbox Oxana, Krokodil Schwimmschule, NTC Stadtwald, Life in Germany, Capoeira (SEA), Tennis (SEA), and Ballet (SEA) by Claudia Peltzer. We sincerely appreciate their continued support and the enthusiasm they brought to the day.
Our Student Leadership Council (SLC) played an important role throughout the event. Our students supported the organization, helped at various stations, such as face painting, and contributed enormously to creating such a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere. We are very proud of their commitment and wonderful team spirit! A special highlight of the day was our tombola, where children had the opportunity to win a selection of wonderful prizes.
Of course, a day full of activities also called for some refreshments. Our trusted partner Broich Catering provided delicious food and beverages, while our Coffee Bike from Bacio e Amore and Ice Cream Truck Angelo offered additional treats for our guests throughout the afternoon.
Alongside the activities, our families had the opportunity to experience our international community, meet members of our dedicated faculty and staff, and discover our extensive kindergarten and school campus.
The ISR Family Fun & Sports Day 2026 was a wonderful way to come together as a community and enjoy an active and memorable day on our campus.
We wish to extend our sincere thanks to all participating families, our cooperation partners, teachers, SLC students, and staff members who contributed to making this event such a success. Your commitment, support, and enthusiasm made the day truly special!
We were delighted to welcome so many families to ISR and look forward to many more wonderful ISR Community Events throughout the academic year!
A New Chapter Begins: ISR First Grade Ceremony 2026
A New Chapter Begins: ISR First Grade Ceremony 2026
On August 28th, we celebrated a very special milestone — our ISR First Grade Ceremony 2026!
The ISR Sports Hall was filled with over 350 guests, all there to celebrate our new Grade 1 students as they began their first year in ISR Elementary School. The event opened with a warm welcome from Mr. Colm Rowan, Head of ISR Elementary School, who spoke about the values that make ISR such a special place — kindness, hard work, and looking out for one another — and how each child’s everyday choices help shape our community for the better.
Ms. Eileen Lyons, ISR School Director, followed with words on how meaningful this day is for the children and their families.
A musical highlight of the ceremony was a lovely performance of our school song, “Ode to ISR,” presented by 5th grader Maya. Ms. Joanna Metcalfe, Head of Grades 1 & 2, then introduced the Grade 1 teachers, who will guide and support our newest students throughout this exciting first school year.
The moment everyone had been waiting for arrived with the presentation of the traditional “Schultüten,” handed to the children by their Grade 1 teachers. This symbolic gesture marked the true start of their school journey and brought plenty of excitement and happy smiles.
After the ceremony, families gathered for a Welcome Get-Together, where parents and staff connected over refreshments and celebrated this joyful new beginning together.
We are proud to welcome our new first graders into the ISR Family and cannot wait for the year ahead!
Celebrating Excellence: Outstanding IB, IGCSE and DELF Results
Celebrating Excellence: Outstanding IB, IGCSE and DELF Results
We are especially pleased to start the new academic year with news of the significant academic successes our students achieved over the past weeks, and we would like to take a moment to celebrate their hard work with you!
Exceptional IB Results – Well Above The International Average
In July, we received this year’s excellent IB results – a further testimony to our motto: It’s cool to be good!
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is widely regarded as the gold standard of pre-university education. Recognized and respected by universities in over 100 countries, it challenges students not only to master a broad range of academic subjects, but also to develop critical thinking, research skills, intercultural understanding, and genuine independence – precisely the qualities the world’s leading universities are looking for.
At ISR, we have an excellent track record of achieving results well above the global average, year after year.
This year’s graduating class continued that proud tradition:
- 36 out of 45 points on average – far above the worldwide average of 30.8 points
- 100% pass rate
- 24% of students achieved 40+ points – placing them among the top IB students worldwide
- 59% earned a bilingual IB Diploma, with two languages at native level
- 3+ university offers per student on average – with admissions in countries such as Germany, Ireland, and Austria still pending
Our graduates have already received offers from some of the most prestigious universities worldwide, including the University of Amsterdam, Delft University of Technology, Eindhoven University of Technology, the University of Groningen, Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, EHL Hospitality Business School, ETH Zurich, the Stockholm School of Economics, IE University Madrid, Imperial College London, King’s College London, the University of St Andrews, the University of Edinburgh, Kingston University, the University of Birmingham, the University of California, San Diego, the University of Toronto, the University of Melbourne, and The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology – just to name a few.
We could not be prouder of the Class of 2026 and wish them every success on their exciting journeys ahead!
Fantastic IGCSE Results
The good news did not stop there: recently in August, we received fantastic IGCSE results!
The IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education), awarded by Cambridge, is one of the world’s most recognized qualifications for students at the end of Grade 10. It provides rigorous, internationally benchmarked preparation for the IB Diploma Programme and is valued by schools and universities around the globe – giving our students a proven academic foundation and a competitive edge on their path to the Diploma years.
Our students’ achievements this year speak for themselves. With 45 candidates completing 205 examination entries, our students achieved:
- 66% of all grades at A*–A
- 94% at A–B
- 100% at A–C – every single entry at grade C or above!
- In total, our students earned an impressive 66 A* and 70 A grades
As the chart below shows, this success is not a one-off but part of a steady upward trend. In our IGCSE courses in German, English, Mathematics and the Sciences, the share of A*–A grades has grown year on year – from 50% in 2024 to 58% in 2025 and now 66% in 2026 – while A*–B grades rose from 75% to an impressive 94%.
In both 2024 and 2025, our students’ results were also well above the global averages (40% and 43% A*–A respectively), and we look forward to seeing this year’s international comparison when the global 2026 results are published in November!
Equally encouraging are this year’s Cambridge Checkpoint results, where our younger students significantly outperformed international averages in every subject:
Excellent DELF Results
Furthermore, we received the results of this year’s DELF examinations. The DELF (Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française) is an official French language diploma awarded by the French Ministry of Education and recognized worldwide. Valid for life, it certifies a student’s French proficiency according to the internationally standardized CEFR levels and is a valuable asset for university applications, international study programs, and future careers – a true door-opener wherever French language skills are required.
We are thrilled to share that every single ISR student who took the examination successfully passed their respective language level – a 100% success rate across all levels from A1 to B1!
Beyond simply passing, our students excelled:
- With a pass mark of 50 out of 100 points, our students achieved an outstanding average score of 85 points, with more than a third of students scoring above 90 points – and top results reaching an impressive 96.5 out of 100 points
- 11 of the 26 candidates — more than 4 in 10 — achieved a perfect score in at least one exam section (listening, reading, writing or speaking), earning 15 flawless 25/25 section scores in total
Congratulations to our young francophones and their dedicated teachers!
A Community Achievement
These outstanding results are no coincidence.
They are the product of the hard work and dedication of our students, the passion and expertise of our teachers, and – just as importantly – the continuous support of our families!
We look forward to another successful academic year ahead – one in which we will continue to prove, every day, that it’s cool to be good!
ISR Student Summer Stories
This summer, we are introducing the ISR Student Summer Stories series, highlighting how our students use their summer holidays to gain valuable experience, take on new challenges, and make a meaningful difference beyond the classroom!
1. Leonard
Our first story features Grade 12 student Leonard, who dedicated his time and energy to improving sanitation facilities at a school in Cameroon as part of his CAS project.
Inspired by his uncle, who initiated a similar sanitation project in Africa many years ago, Leonard became aware of the impact that inadequate facilities can have on a child’s education. At many schools, a lack of safe and hygienic toilets can prevent students from attending lessons regularly, with girls being particularly affected.
Determined to make a difference, Leonard began raising funds for the construction of a new sanitation block with running water. The plans include separate toilets for girls and boys, facilities for teachers, accessible toilets, and a sustainable wastewater system. Bringing such an ambitious project to life required courage, persistence, and a great deal of personal responsibility!
Leonard approached potential donors, organized fundraising activities and presented the project at school events. Asking others for financial support was not always easy, but he continued to speak about the importance of the project and encouraged people to become part of it. His commitment even attracted the attention of the local newspaper Rheinische Post/NGZ, which took a keen interest in his efforts and interviewed him about the initiative.
Leonard’s story shows that meaningful change often begins with one person who is willing to take the first step. His dedication has helped turn an idea into a project that can have a lasting impact on an entire school community for years to come.
We are incredibly proud of Leonard and everything he has achieved! His example reminds us how important it is to take responsibility, become actively involved, and use our own opportunities to support others. It also shows that no meaningful project is achieved alone: This journey was made possible through the trust, encouragement, and generous donations of the ISR Community, including partners, families, friends, and everyone who believed in and supported the project.
We are proud to share Leonard’s inspiring journey as the first chapter of this year’s ISR Student Summer Stories!
2. Carl
Our ISR Student Summer Stories series continues, celebrating the meaningful experiences our students pursue beyond the classroom during their summer holidays. Whether through internships, social projects, or personal initiatives, these stories highlight how curiosity and the courage to explore new opportunities can lead to valuable learning and personal growth.
For our second ISR Student Summer Story, we are delighted to introduce Carl, one of our future Grade 12 students, who spent an inspiring week at the German Bundestag completing an internship with Member of Parliament Carl-Philipp Sassenrath.
As the internship took place during a full parliamentary week, Carl was able to experience the work of the German Parliament first-hand. He accompanied Mr. Sassenrath and his team throughout their daily activities, gained insight into their responsibilities, and witnessed several parliamentary debates and votes.
“It was a fantastic opportunity to gain first-hand insight into the work of the German Parliament. I was able to experience the team’s day-to-day responsibilities and shadow Mr. Sassenrath during a full parliamentary week with many important votes. The internship gave me valuable new perspectives on politics, public service, and the legislative process,” Carl says.
A particularly memorable part of the week was Carl’s personal interview with Mr. Sassenrath. Their conversation revealed an exciting connection: both developed an early interest in politics through Model United Nations (MUN) conferences. Mr. Sassenrath explained that his political journey later continued through local CDU politics and his involvement in sports, particularly through projects that brought schools and sports clubs closer together. At the heart of his work is a simple but powerful motivation: the desire to make a meaningful contribution to society!
When Carl asked what had surprised him most about working at the Bundestag, Mr. Sassenrath highlighted the dynamic pace of parliamentary life, with its many meetings, appointments, and personal exchanges. He was especially impressed by the strong sense of collaboration and constructive dialogue that shapes political work behind the scenes – an encouraging side of the Bundestag that is not always visible to the public.
His advice to his younger self also offered Carl an important takeaway:
“Follow your passions and trust your instincts. When you truly care about what you are doing, you are far more likely to do it well!”
We extend our sincere thanks to Mr. Sassenrath and his team for giving Carl this exceptional opportunity to experience political life at the Bundestag first-hand! We are excited to see where Carl’s curiosity and passion will take him next – and who knows, perhaps one day Carl will be the one offering a similar opportunity to a future ISR student!
3. Nicholas
For the third chapter of our ISR Student Summer Stories, we are delighted to share the experience of Nicholas, one of our Grade 11 students, who spent part of his summer at the Bocconi Summer School in Milan.
Nicholas chose Bocconi because of its strong international reputation and its academic focus on subjects closely connected to his interests in international law, politics, and global affairs. At the same time, the program offered him an opportunity to look beyond the classroom and discover whether he could imagine studying and living in Milan in the future!
During the Summer School, Nicholas participated in two academic labs: “The European Union and Its Economic Policies in Post-Globalisation” and “International Politics”. Both courses concluded with a final presentation, giving him the opportunity not only to deepen his subject knowledge but also to develop his research, critical-thinking, and presentation skills.
“The lectures and presentations reshaped how I view international relations,” Nicholas explains. Through discussions with lecturers and fellow students, he gained new perspectives on political cooperation, economic policy, and the complex relationships between countries and international institutions.
Nicholas also took part in extracurricular activities, including a cooking class, which gave him the chance to experience Italian culture in a more personal and enjoyable way. Alongside the demanding academic program, he formed new friendships, explored Milan, and experienced everyday life in one of Europe’s most vibrant university cities.
“Between the top-tier academics, the friendships I formed, and the city of Milan itself, it became a place where I could see myself living in the future,” Nicholas says.
We are very proud of Nicholas for stepping outside his familiar environment, embracing new academic challenges and approaching this experience with such curiosity and openness! His time at Bocconi is a wonderful example of how initiative and a willingness to explore new opportunities can support both personal and academic growth.
4. Helen
Our fourth story features Helen, who travelled from Germany to Shanghai to participate in the Peer Potential Mock Trial (PPMT), one of China’s longest-running English-language mock trial competitions for high school students. Over four intensive days, more than 100 students across 22 teams took part in courtroom simulations evaluated by law students and graduates from universities including Yale, Harvard, and New York University.
Helen was the only participant traveling from Germany. She joined a newly formed team of five students who had never met before and, after the first round of training, was selected as team captain.
She also took on two demanding roles: Prosecution Closing Attorney, delivering the prosecution’s final argument, and Defendant, facing cross-examination. Seeing the same case from different perspectives required critical thinking, clear communication, adaptability, and composure under pressure.
Together with her teammates, Helen achieved an impressive result. The team ranked among the strongest performers in the preliminary rounds and narrowly missed out on the final three. Helen’s individual performance was also recognised with the Outstanding Witness Award!
Yet what stayed with her most was not the award, but the people she met and the atmosphere of mutual respect, humility, and support. Helen reflected: “Before this competition, I thought being ‘good’ mostly meant being talented or performing well. But I met so many people who were not only capable, but also kind, humble, and willing to help others. I realized that excellence isn’t something you achieve alone – it grows when you’re surrounded by people who inspire you to become better. Winning the Outstanding Witness Award made me proud, but meeting those people was the most valuable part of this experience. For the first time, I truly understood what ISR means when it says, ‘It’s cool to be good.’”
Helen’s story reminds us that meaningful experiences are shaped by the people we meet, the perspectives we gain, and the courage to challenge ourselves.
We are proud of Helen for representing herself and our ISR Community with confidence, curiosity, and openness. Her journey reflects what “It’s cool to be good” means in practice: striving for excellence while remaining humble, supportive, and willing to learn from others.
5. Maria & Amelie
Our fifth ISR Summer Story features Grade 11 student Maria and Grade 9 student Amelie, who spent 14 days traveling through China and covered more than 4,500 kilometers by train. Inspired by their brother Leonard, who visited China with ISR last year, they were excited to experience the country for themselves.
Their journey began in Beijing, which for them represented the present-day face of China. They visited the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the Ming Tombs, and the Temple of Heaven. The Great Wall was a particular highlight, and they also enjoyed discovering the local cuisine and trying the famous Peking duck!
Next came Xi’an, a city that gave them a fascinating glimpse into China’s past. They explored the old town, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, and the world-famous Terracotta Army. Seeing the thousands of extraordinary figures in person was one of the most impressive and memorable moments of their entire journey.
In Shanghai, Maria and Amelie experienced yet another side of China: modern, vibrant, and full of impressive skyscrapers. They visited the Shanghai Tower, the Bund, Nanjing Road, Yu Garden, and the Jade Buddha Temple, and especially enjoyed the fascinating contrast between modern architecture and traditional culture.
Their journey then continued to Guilin and Yangshuo, where the rivers and spectacular karst mountains reminded them of the landscapes from Avatar. A boat trip, a suspension bridge, and the remarkable “Liu Sanjie” show on the Li River made this part of their adventure particularly special.
Their final stop was Hong Kong, where they explored Victoria Harbour, the Avenue of Stars, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Victoria Peak — and even met a friend from school!
After two exciting weeks filled with new impressions, cultures, landscapes, and unforgettable memories, Maria and Amelie returned to Frankfurt with one clear wish: to visit China again.
We are delighted to share their journey with our ISR Community and hope their story inspires others to stay curious, explore the world with open minds, and embrace every opportunity to learn beyond the classroom.
6. Anton
Our sixth ISR Summer Story features Grade 8 student Anton, who spent nearly two weeks completing an intensive neuroscience research internship at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf.
From the very beginning, Anton was much more than an observer. Dr. Nora Bittner and her colleagues introduced him to different areas of neuroscience and involved him in real scientific work. Dr. Bittner is a Scientific Coordinator at Forschungszentrum Jülich’s Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), where her work is connected to the structural and functional organisation of the human brain.
A major focus of Anton’s internship was the connection between neuroscience, medicine, mathematics, and computer science. Working with data from the 1000BRAINS study, he wrote his own Python programs to analyse relationships between age, brain structure, cognitive performance, and brain networks. He also explored MRI and fMRI, white matter lesions, functional connectivity, and machine learning.
One particularly exciting task involved examining real MRI scans and comparing his observations with results produced by an automated algorithm. Using Python and Jupyter Notebook, Anton also worked with classification and regression models and data from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative, gaining insight into how computational methods can support modern brain research.
His internship also took him beyond the computer. Anton learned about brain-tissue preparation and microscopy, experienced cognitive testing, and visited an MRI scanner at the university hospital. These experiences showed him how laboratory work, imaging technologies, and data analysis come together in neuroscience.
Anton documented each day in a detailed internship diary, reflecting on what he had learned. His existing programming skills and knowledge of neuroscience were also positively recognised by the researchers – wonderful encouragement for a young student with such a strong interest in the field.
We are very proud of Anton for approaching this exceptional opportunity with curiosity, focus, and enthusiasm, and for taking his learning far beyond the classroom!
7. Felicia
We are excited to share the story of our Grade 7 student Felicia as the seventh chapter of this year’s ISR Student Summer Stories series!
During the summer holidays, Felicia embarked on an unforgettable journey through Alaska with her family, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, vast stretches of ocean and incredible wildlife. Among the many remarkable moments, one experience stood out in particular: seeing whales in the wild for the very first time.
One evening, while the family was enjoying dinner on board, Felicia suddenly noticed a splash in the distance. Moments later, an excited announcement from the ship’s captain confirmed what everyone had hoped for: whales!
Guests quickly gathered by the windows as humpback whales appeared in the water outside. Felicia watched in fascination as the enormous animals moved gracefully through the ocean, their fins and flippers briefly emerging above the surface before disappearing again beneath the water.
And the encounters did not stop there. Throughout the journey, Felicia was fortunate enough to see several whale species, including humpback whales and fin whales. An especially memorable moment came when orcas appeared. With their distinctive black backs and towering dorsal fins breaking the surface, they seemed both powerful and remarkably calm.
For Felicia, seeing these extraordinary animals in their natural habitat created a fascinating mixture of excitement, awe, and wonder. The experience gave her an entirely new appreciation for wildlife and for the beauty of Alaska’s spectacular waters.
Experiences like Felicia’s show how travel can open our eyes to the extraordinary world beyond our everyday surroundings and turn a family holiday into lasting memories.
We are delighted that Felicia has shared this special experience with our ISR Community.
Thank you, Felicia, for taking us along on your unforgettable adventure in the seventh chapter of this year’s ISR Student Summer Stories!
8. Gian
We are excited to share the story of our Grade 11 student Gian as the eighth chapter of this year’s ISR Student Summer Stories series!
For Gian, this summer was shaped by a remarkable variety of experiences – from travelling and discovering new cultures to gaining valuable professional insights and learning to rely on himself.
His summer began with three weeks in South Africa and Mauritius with his family, fulfilling a long-time dream of going on a real safari. Experiencing cultures so different from life in Germany gave him new perspectives and made for an unforgettable start to the holidays.
Back home, Gian spent a week coaching tennis, cycling 25 kilometres to and from the courts each day. The routine became a valuable lesson in discipline and consistency.
He then worked alongside his father in the family business, gaining practical insight into how a company operates day to day. This was followed by a week-long internship at a brand strategy and design agency in Aachen, where he joined client briefings and sales calls and contributed to live marketing campaigns.
His main project was building a landing page from scratch, from the first visual mock-up to the finished website. What seemed simple at first turned out to involve far more strategy, planning and testing than expected, giving Gian a new understanding of how branding and design can influence a sale.
Gian closed out his summer with a short solo trip through Switzerland and France, visiting friends and hiking around Chamonix. Travelling alone encouraged him to make his own decisions and rely on himself.
Reflecting on his summer, Gian shared:
“My internship showed me how much strategy sits behind something as simple as a webpage. Combined with what I learned from my father and my solo trip, I realized the special part of the summer wasn’t any single experience but the variety between them. If there’s one thing that carried through all of it, it’s that good leadership means listening first. Heading into the IB, that’s the preparation I didn’t know I needed.”
Thank you, Gian, for sharing your inspiring summer journey with our ISR Community!
9. Sam and Nero
We are delighted to share the story of our Grade 5 student Sam and Grade 4 student Neo as the ninth chapter of this year’s ISR Student Summer Stories series!
During the summer holidays, the two brothers experienced a very special adventure in Bali with their family: an unforgettable early-morning journey to Mount Batur, one of the island’s active volcanoes.
Their day began at 2:30 AM, when they were picked up from their villa in Jimbaran. After a two-and-a-half-hour drive, Sam and Neo arrived at the foot of Mount Batur, where they swapped their regular car for an off-road Jeep. Together with their friendly guide, they made their way up the rocky volcanic slopes in the darkness.
After around 30 minutes of a wild and bumpy ride, they reached the viewpoint just in time for sunrise. Slowly, the sky changed from dark blue to purple, pink, and bright orange. As the sun appeared above the mountains, clouds and mist drifted through the valleys below. For Sam and Neo, watching the landscape come to life was one of the most memorable moments of the entire trip.
The brothers also collected volcanic rocks as souvenirs and learned more about Mount Batur’s past eruptions. Their guide showed them the dark path once taken by lava, giving them a fascinating impression of the immense power hidden beneath the peaceful landscape.
After exploring the volcano, the family visited the Mount Batur hot springs, where the naturally warm water offered the perfect chance to relax after the cold morning and adventurous Jeep ride.
Their journey continued with delicious Balinese food and a visit to a Kopi Luwak farm. There, Sam and Neo learned how the famous coffee is produced and even had the opportunity to meet and gently touch a real luwak.
From watching the sunrise above the clouds to travelling across volcanic terrain and discovering local traditions, Sam and Neo’s day was filled with adventure, learning, and unforgettable family memories.
Thank you, Sam and Neo, for taking us along on your incredible Balinese adventure as the ninth chapter of this year’s ISR Student Summer Stories!
ISR Sports Camp 2026
ISR Sports Camp 2026
An active, exciting, and unforgettable week marked the beginning of this year’s ISR Summer Break as more than 100 children came together for the ISR Sports Camp 2026 on our ISR Campus in Neuss. Filled with sports, games, and memorable excursions, the camp offered the perfect mix of movement, fun, and new experiences.
Throughout the week, participants enjoyed a diverse sports program organized in age-appropriate groups. From soccer, tennis, and a variety of ball games to gymnastics, Capoeira, dance games, and interactive parachute activities – there was something to enjoy for everyone! Every day brought new opportunities to stay active, build confidence, and make new friendships and strengthen existing ones. To complement the energetic program, the children also took part in relaxing “Mindful Time” sessions, including yoga, giving them the opportunity to recharge. One of the week’s highlights was the tennis training on our new seven tennis courts, located opposite our ISR Campus at the NTC Stadtwald. There, the children were introduced to new tennis skills through fun and engaging training sessions.
The camp was further enriched by several exciting excursions across Neuss. At Alpenpark Neuss, the children spent an action-packed day enjoying a variety of different activities. They also explored BERO’s Children’s World, a popular outdoor adventure playground featuring climbing structures, slides, trampolines, and interactive play areas. Another favorite destination was Superfly Air Sports Neuss, where the children experienced the excitement of one of Germany’s largest trampoline parks, complete with exciting jumping zones and fun physical challenges.
A heartfelt thank you goes to our dedicated ISR Sports Team, ISR Supervisors, and supporting teachers. Their passion and enthusiasm for a diverse sports program once again made this year’s camp an outstanding success. We also wish to extend our special thanks to Ms. Racheva, our ISR Sports Camp Leader, for designing such an enriching and engaging program for this year’s ISR Sports Camp. We look forward to welcoming both returning and new participants to next year’s ISR Sports Camp, and we are pleased to launch our second part of the ISR Summer Program today – the ISR Summer School and the ISR Cooking Camp.
All Students in ISR's Current IB Cohort Successfully Pass Their Final Examinations, Reinforcing ISR's Position as One of Germany's Leading International Private Schools
ISR International School on the Rhine Neuss / Düsseldorf / Meerbusch
All Students in ISR’s Current IB Cohort Successfully Pass Their Final Examinations, Reinforcing ISR’s Position as One of Germany’s Leading International Private Schools
Monday, 27 July 2026
With an average of 36 points in the International Baccalaureate, ISR students match the outstanding results of previous years / Approximately one quarter of ISR graduates achieve a score comparable to a German Abitur grade of 1.3 or better, while more than 80% exceed the global average / This year’s graduating class has already received an average of three university offers from prestigious institutions around the world
The 67 students of ISR International School on the Rhine in Neuss, Düsseldorf, and Meerbusch achieved outstanding1 results in this year’s International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBD) examinations. They earned an average score of 36 points, six points above the global IB average. This year, 83% of ISR graduates exceeded the worldwide average. Nearly one in four students (24%) achieved 40 or more out of a maximum of 45 points. This level of achievement is comparable to a German Abitur grade of 1.3 or better and is attained by only a small percentage of IB graduates worldwide.
These excellent results once again confirm ISR’s position as one of Germany’s leading international private schools. In addition, 59% of this year’s graduates, representing 21 different nationalities, earned the IB Bilingual Diploma. This special distinction recognizes students who have successfully completed the demanding IB Diploma Programme at a high academic level in two languages of instruction. The IB Bilingual Diploma provides an outstanding foundation for studying at prestigious universities around the world and pursuing careers in internationally oriented organizations.
“These outstanding results are the product of the exceptional dedication of our students combined with highly individualized support,” says Peter Soliman, Managing Partner of ISR.
This individualized approach begins as early as ISR’s kindergarten program.
“The fact that we address the unique learning needs of every child from the very beginning pays off years later in the outstanding International Baccalaureate results,” explains Albena Jordanova, Head of Secondary School and the IB Program at ISR. “These achievements are also a reflection of the tremendous commitment and professional expertise of our entire faculty and staff. In particular, our graduates benefit greatly from the outstanding work of our University and Career Counselling Team.”
ISR’s guiding principle, “It’s cool to be good,” forms the foundation of the school’s educational approach. It represents a culture in which academic excellence, strong character, and ambitious goals go hand in hand. Within this environment, students develop the skills and mindset needed for a successful and fulfilling future.
“Through the comprehensive IB curriculum and its distinctive core components, our students develop strong critical thinking skills, advanced research competencies, and a deep intercultural understanding,” adds Albena Jordanova.
Peter Soliman is proud not only of the graduates’ outstanding academic achievements but also of the positive contributions they will make to society in the years ahead. He also highlights that 18% of this year’s graduates have been part of the ISR Community since kindergarten.
“For an international school, this exceptionally long period of enrollment demonstrates both ISR’s deep roots in the Neuss, Düsseldorf, and Meerbusch region and the high level of satisfaction among our families.”
The International Baccalaureate Diploma is specifically designed to prepare students for success at leading universities around the world. More than half of this year’s graduating class will pursue degrees in STEM disciplines, including the natural sciences, computer science, engineering, artificial intelligence, and related fields. ISR places a strong emphasis on preparing students for these future-oriented areas, which contributes significantly to the outstanding international reputation of its graduates.
Alongside academic excellence, ISR places a strong focus on character development. This combination of academic achievement and personal growth has resulted in this year’s graduates already receiving more than three university offers on average. Additional admissions decisions from universities in Germany, Ireland, and other countries are still pending.
This year’s graduates have received offers from prestigious institutions across the globe. In the United Kingdom, these include University College London (UCL), Imperial College London, King’s College London, and the University of St Andrews. In continental Europe, students have received offers from ETH Zurich, Eindhoven University of Technology, the University of Amsterdam, and WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management in Germany. In Spain, graduates have been accepted to IE University Madrid. North American offers include the University of California, the University of Toronto, and the University of British Columbia. Students have also received offers from leading institutions in Asia and Australia, including the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, the University of Melbourne, and the University of Sydney. All of these universities are internationally recognized for their excellence in research and teaching, particularly in business, the natural sciences, and engineering.
A distinctive feature of ISR is the comprehensive guidance provided by its University and Career Counselling Team, which is available to students and their families beginning at the end of Grade 8. This personalized support includes identifying universities that best match each student’s interests, strengths, and career aspirations.
“Our goal is to help every student find the university that is the right fit for them,” says Ulrike Wacker, who has been advising and supporting ISR students on their university journeys for more than 20 years. “Throughout their time at ISR, we maintain close communication not only with our students but also with their parents. We organize visits to universities around the world and host university fairs on campus. Our aim is to help students understand the wide range of opportunities available to them while preparing them as effectively as possible for admission to their preferred universities.”
Disclaimer
ISR International School on the Rhine, headquartered in Neuss, is a privately operated international full-day school. More than 1,200 students from the local region and around the world study together in preparation for internationally recognized school qualifications. In addition to academic excellence, ISR places a strong emphasis on character development and social responsibility. This holistic approach prepares students for admission to leading universities in Germany and around the world.
For younger children, ISR operates international kindergartens on its Neuss campus, in Düsseldorf-Niederkassel, and a German-language branch in Meerbusch-Büderich. In addition, the ISR Elementary School in Düsseldorf-Oberkassel, serving students in Grades 1–6 and accommodating up to 500 children, is scheduled to open in August 2027.
ISR Graduation Ceremony 2026: A Meaningful Milestone for 67 Graduates from 21 Nations
ISR Graduation Ceremony 2026: A Meaningful Milestone for 67 Graduates from 21 Nations
On Friday, hundreds of guests, valued ISR families, and distinguished guests gathered to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our 67 graduates from 21 different nations at this year’s ISR Graduation Ceremony 2026. It was a special day filled with pride, joy, and moving moments, honoring the accomplishments of our students and marking their successful graduation from ISR.
We are particularly proud that many families from this year’s graduating class have been part of the ISR family for many years. Several have been with us since 2011, while others joined in 2012, 2013, and 2014. This long-standing connection fills us with great gratitude and makes this graduation milestone even more meaningful for our entire school community.
Following the festive welcoming remarks by Mr. Soliman, Proprietor of ISR, and Ms. Jordanova, Head of Upper School at ISR, we were especially pleased to welcome Dr. Geerlings, Deputy Mayor of the City of Neuss and Member of the State Parliament, to the stage as our keynote speaker. With his appreciative words, he addressed our graduates and highlighted the significance of this important milestone.
Afterwards, our student Ruby enriched the ceremony with an impressive musical performance, adding a particularly memorable and festive atmosphere to the occasion.
Another emotional highlight of the ceremony was the speech delivered by ISR alumna Dr. Camilla Mendl-Heinisch. In a deeply personal address, she shared valuable key learnings with the graduates. Exactly twelve years ago, Camilla herself stood on the very same stage as Valedictorian at her own graduation, speaking to her fellow classmates – a truly special moment that brought her ISR journey full circle in a meaningful way.
Following this, our Parent Speaker, Mr. Habel, addressed the graduates with heartfelt remarks. As a special gesture, he presented each graduate with a small bookmark intended to accompany them on their future paths.
Subsequently, Piotr and Ayssan, this year’s Valedictorian and Salutatorian, delivered their closing speech. With moving words, they expressed their sincere appreciation for all teachers, staff members, and supporters of ISR, while also reflecting with gratitude on their shared school journey.
The ceremonial highlight of the event was the presentation of the ISR High School Diplomas. Amid great applause, our graduates received their diplomas, marking the conclusion of an important chapter and the beginning of an exciting new stage in their lives.
Our graduates have already received an average of 3.5 offers from universities around the world – an impressive achievement that reflects their academic excellence, dedication, and international outlook. Further offers from universities in the German-speaking region are still pending.
Our sincere gratitude goes to all distinguished guests who celebrated this special day with us: Dr. Geerlings, Mr. Nickel, member of the ISR Advisory Board, Mr. Kawakami from the JISD Leadership Team, and, of course, all families who have supported and accompanied our graduates throughout their journey.
We look forward to seeing where the future will lead our graduates and are confident that they will continue to represent and carry forward the values of ISR wherever they go. We warmly congratulate the Class of 2026 and wish all graduates every success and happiness for the future!
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Naohiro
Spotlight On Our Student Naohiro
This week, we are proud to spotlight our fourth-grader, Naohiro, who joined ISR in 2023! He was nominated for the Spotlight by Mr. Rowan, the Head of Elementary School and Academic Head of Grade 4. He explains:
“Naohiro is an outstanding student who consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic, a great sense of humour, and a positive attitude towards learning. He truly embodies the “It’s Cool to Be Good” motto through his kindness, effort, and excellent example to others.”
Naohiro’s Grade 4 homeroom teacher, Ms. Sayers, shares:
“It is a pleasure to recognize Naohiro’s achievements. He is a genuinely kind and thoughtful young man who always shows consideration for those around him, willingly lending a helping hand in the classroom. Naohiro approaches every challenge with enthusiasm and determination. Whether participating in extracurricular activities, helping to organize his peer group, or tackling his academic studies, he gives his very best in everything he does. One achievement that particularly stands out is the effort he put into learning Italian for his Social Studies presentation on Marco Polo. This was a wonderful example of his curiosity, dedication, and willingness to go the extra mile to make his work truly special.
Naohiro should be incredibly proud of all that he has accomplished. It has been a privilege to watch him grow and succeed, and I have no doubt that his hard work, kindness, and determination will continue to bring him success in the future. We wish him every success and look forward to seeing all that he achieves!”
Ms. Bucher, Naohiro’s music teacher, remarks:
“Naohiro is a very conscientious student who takes responsibility for his own learning. He has a very strong drive to be the best he can be every day. He also happily shares his strategies for studying with others. I remember that he once gave the class a tip in Music on how to use a mnemonic device to help recall particular facts about instruments and instrument families that they needed to know. Naohiro was also one of our presenters at the Grade 4 Spring Concert. He memorized his text and presented beautifully – with lots of expression and care! Naohiro is also very polite, outgoing, and funny. It’s great to have Naohiro at ISR!”
Finally, Ms. Ghica, the Academic Head for Grades 2 & 3, adds:
“Naohiro, thank you for being part of our ISR community! At the beginning of the school year, your confidence in English was still developing, but it was wonderful to see how much progress you made over time. In SEL, you contributed thoughtful ideas and showed a solid ability to build arguments on different topics. Your reflections demonstrated a good understanding of teamwork and of how a growth mindset can support personal development and wellbeing. I wish you all the best for the future!”
We are proud to spotlight Naohiro as one of ISR’s many outstanding students!
The ISR Student Spotlight Project aims to highlight one of our students from the ISR-Community every Friday, who embodies our guiding principle “We Enable Great Minds and Strong Characters” by consistently surpassing themselves. Whether through outstanding academic achievements, exceptional dedication, or remarkable character traits – we take pride in having already showcased hundreds of students – and there is more to look forward to every week!
Our Student Spotlights
Outstanding Success in the International Chemistry Competition 2026
Outstanding Success in the International Chemistry Competition 2026
We are proud to celebrate another outstanding academic achievement within our ISR Community.
Our Grade 10 student, Pranita, has been awarded first place in Germany in the International Chemistry Competition 2026. This remarkable accomplishment follows an exceptionally challenging final round, in which participants were required to solve 30 complex, supervised questions, demonstrating advanced scientific knowledge and analytical thinking. Pranita achieved the highest score nationwide, placing both herself and ISR among the very top performers in this prestigious international competition.
Her success is a powerful reflection of dedication and academic excellence. At the same time, it highlights the strength of the learning environment at ISR, where students are encouraged to pursue their passions and strive for the highest standards. Pranita truly embodies our ISR motto: “It’s cool to be good!”
We warmly congratulate Pranita – and her teachers – on this exceptional accomplishment!
