Contemporary Witness Manfred Hüllen Visits ISR Again
Contemporary Witness Manfred Hüllen Visits ISR Again
Yesterday, we had the honor of welcoming a very special guest to ISR for the second time: contemporary witness Mr. Manfred Hüllen. Having grown up in Düsseldorf and now residing in Hamburg, Mr. Hüllen shared his family history and personal experiences during the war and post-war years in Düsseldorf with remarkable openness and depth. For our Grade 9 students who attended the talk, history became tangible in a deeply moving and personal way.
At the heart of his visit was a powerful message to the younger generation: “You are the future. You all carry this power – the power of love – and it can overcome hatred and division.” His words resonated strongly, encouraging students to reflect on their role in shaping a more compassionate and responsible society.
Mr. Hüllen spoke candidly about the realities of war, including loss, fear, and uncertainty. At the same time, he emphasized the importance of looking forward, reminding students: “You have a great responsibility ahead of you.” He encouraged students to see themselves as engaged and articulate democrats and stressed that while differing opinions are natural, respectful dialogue and shared responsibility are fundamental to a healthy society. His message was clear: “Together, we can achieve far more!”
The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, during which our ninth graders asked thoughtful and perceptive questions. Their strong engagement was closely linked to their history lessons, particularly their in-depth study of The Diary of Anne Frank, which enabled them to connect more deeply with Mr. Hüllen’s personal experiences. The impact of his visit was especially evident in the students’ feedback: two students approached our Head of Secondary School afterwards to share that this had been the most touching and engaging history lesson they could imagine. We are proud to provide such meaningful learning experiences that bring history to life and leave a lasting impression on our students.
We wish to express our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Hüllen and his companions for their dedication and invaluable contribution to democratic education. Their willingness to travel great distances to share their firsthand experiences is truly inspiring, helping to keep history alive while fostering a deep sense of responsibility for the future!
Zeitzeuge Manfred Hüllen besucht erneut die ISR
Zeitzeuge Manfred Hüllen besucht erneut die ISR
Dienstag, 5. Mai 2026
Nach jahrelanger Planung sind in Neuss jetzt sieben modernisierte Tennisplätze eröffnet worden. Die Kooperation zwischen Internationaler Schule und dem NTC Stadtwald gilt als Vorzeigeprojekt – das auch Zusammenhalt und Integration stärken soll.
Nach jahrelanger Planung sind in Neuss jetzt sieben modernisierte Tennisplätze eröffnet worden. Die Kooperation zwischen Internationaler Schule und dem NTC Stadtwald gilt als Vorzeigeprojekt – das auch Zusammenhalt und Integration stärken soll.
Dienstag, 28. April 2026
In: NGZ
Opening Ceremony of our new Tennis Courts
Opening Ceremony of our new Tennis Courts
We proudly celebrated the official opening of our newly modernized tennis courts at ISR last Friday at the NTC Stadtwald – an important milestone that represents far more than the completion of a sports facility. After years of planning, this project has become a reality through a strong partnership between ISR and NTC Stadtwald, located just opposite our Neuss campus.
Last year, we further expanded our campus by taking over the adjacent tennis and archery facilities, bringing our total grounds to an impressive 150,000 m². Over the past months, seven tennis courts have been fully modernized to provide professional-level conditions for training and competition beginning next season. This project stands as a strong example of how collaboration between education, sports clubs, and the city can create lasting value for the entire region.
We were especially honored to welcome the following guests of honor to our event: Dr. Geerlings, Deputy Mayor of the City of Neuss and Chairman of the Sports Committee; Katharina Reinhold, District Administrator (Landrätin) of Rhein-Kreis Neuss; Sascha Karbowiak, Deputy Mayor and City Councillor for the Stadion-Viertel; Dietmar Dahmen, Deputy Mayor of Neuss and Chairman of the Sports Committee; and Stefan Schmitz, Deputy Chairman of the SPD. In addition, we were delighted to welcome numerous other guests, including ISR teachers and staff, families, students, as well as NTC members and friends.
The official ceremony began with welcome addresses by Mr. Soliman, ISR Proprietor; Dr. Geerlings; and Mr. Tesic, Chairman of NTC. In his speech, Mr. Soliman emphasized the true win-win-win nature of this partnership and expressed his sincere gratitude to NTC and the City of Neuss for making this collaboration possible. Dr. Geerlings likewise highlighted the importance of such long-term investments in sports infrastructure and their positive impact on the citizens of Neuss. Mr. Tesic also warmly welcomed all guests, expressed his appreciation for the strong partnership, and shared his optimism for a successful future collaboration.
Following the speeches, a ceremonial ribbon-cutting took place, during which Mr. Soliman, Dr. Geerlings, and Mr. Tesic jointly cut the red ribbon as a symbol of the official opening of the new tennis courts. Shortly afterward, Mr. Soliman and Dr. Geerlings made the first symbolic serves on the courts, marking the beginning of sporting activities on the new surface. Our dedicated SLC students supported the event throughout, and soon afterward, members were already enjoying their first rallies.
We wish to sincerely thank NTC Stadtwald for this long-standing and trusting partnership and look forward to many successful years ahead. Our thanks also go to Ms. Reinhold and Dr. Geerlings for taking the time to join the ceremony, as well as to Mr. Tesic and his team for organizing the event with such dedication. Finally, we extend our sincere thanks to all other participants and guests who joined us and contributed to making this event such a special and memorable occasion.
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Zoey
Spotlight On Our Student Zoey
This week, we are proud to spotlight our third grader, Zoey, who joined ISR in 2019. She was nominated for the Student Spotlight by Ms. Ghica, the Academic Head of Grades 2 & 3. She shares:
“Shoutout to Zoey, whom I’ve had the pleasure of knowing since Grade 1. She began her journey as a quiet and reserved student. Watching her grow over time has been something truly special. Zoey has blossomed into a confident, self-aware young person who carries herself with quiet strength. She is not only academically strong, but also genuinely kind and generous, always showing care and consideration for her classmates and teachers.”
Zoey’s homeroom teacher, Ms. Vittin, remarks:
“Zoey is a kind-hearted and curious student, whose love of learning is infectious. She is constantly inquiring about different topics in the classroom and wants to know more about the world around her. In addition, she is very empathetic and puts herself in other people’ shoes to better understand them. Furthermore, Zoey goes above and beyond with her work and takes her time to produce high-quality results. All in all, she always strives to be a helpful role-model, both through her behavior and her academic efforts. I am so proud of her growth this year – well done Zoey!”
Ms. Bucher, Zoey’s Music teacher, notes:
“Zoey is a valuable member of the class. Her behaviour is exemplary. She is focused, always on task, and consistently gives her best effort in Music. She is also very friendly and dependable.”
Ms. Vrem, Head of ISR Kindergarten Neuss, reflects:
“Zoey started with us in kindergarten. She was always a thoughtful and calm child. Her curiosity and friendly nature enabled her to build strong friendships.”
Zoey’s German teacher, Ms. Dönni, adds:
“Zoey is an outstanding student who truly enriches our lessons with her sharp mind and remarkable initiative. She is not only a fast and independent learner but also elevates the entire class through her insightful contributions. Furthermore, she demonstrates a calm and kind nature toward everyone. She’s a true asset to our school community!”
Finally, Mr. Simon-Prestel, Zoey’s sports teacher, says:
“Zoey consistently demonstrates excellent behaviour and is a true role model in Physical Education. She approaches every lesson with a positive attitude, always ready to participate, support others, and give her best effort. Her willingness to help classmates and encourage those around her allows everyone to perform at their best, creating a respectful and motivating environment.
In addition, she shows very strong physical abilities, applying her skills with confidence, control, and determination in all activities. She truly reflects our school motto, “It’s cool to be good,” as she leads by example and shows that kindness, effort, and a positive attitude are key to success.”
We are proud to spotlight Zoey 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
ISR Career Talks Offer Guidance for the Future
ISR Career Talks Offer Guidance for the Future
At ISR, our University and Career Counseling Program regularly welcomes engaged parents and company representatives to our campus to share their professional journeys. These sessions provide our students with valuable insights into academic pathways, career decisions, and real-world experiences.
Last week, we had the pleasure of hosting two inspiring speakers from very different professional fields: Dr. Torben Kuschel and Mr. Richard Schmitz.
On Wednesday, Dr. Torben Kuschel, currently working as a Senior Operations Research Scientist at DELMIA Quintiq Dassault Systèmes in Düsseldorf, delivered a highly engaging Parent Mentor Career Talk to our Grade 11 students. He offered insights into his academic and professional journey, highlighting key experiences and decisions that shaped his career. In addition to his work in the private sector, Dr. Kuschel serves as a Major in the German Armed Forces Reserve, where he advises senior public officials in crisis situations, and is actively involved at ISR as Head of the Parent Network for our Elementary School.
His central message to students was that career paths are rarely linear. He encouraged them to pursue their interests, surround themselves with supportive people, and regularly reflect on their goals.
On Thursday, our Grade 10 students attended an interactive Parent Mentor Career Talk led by Mr. Richard Schmitz of the Ralf Schmitz and Bahners & Schmitz Group. In his presentation, Mr. Schmitz immediately engaged students through a hands-on real estate investment activity. He shared his personal career path, highlighted both technical and soft skills essential for success, and offered insights into entrepreneurship in today’s world. His central message – “There is no perfect path – just start somewhere” – resonated strongly with our students, many of whom are interested in business, entrepreneurship, and investment.
While the two talks explored very different career paths, both speakers shared a remarkably similar message: success does not follow a straight line, and having the courage to take initiative and pursue one’s interests is the key!
We wish to extend our sincere thanks to both Dr. Torben Kuschel and Mr. Richard Schmitz for their time, openness, and willingness to inspire our students!
We also thank our University and Career Counseling Team for continuously creating such valuable opportunities for our ISR students.
ISR Grade 12 IB Visual Arts Exhibition Vernissage 2026
ISR Grade 12 IB Visual Arts Exhibition Vernissage 2026
Last Thursday, our annual ISR Grade 12 IB Visual Arts Exhibition Vernissage took place, showcasing the creativity and dedication of our talented students Madison, Emily, Annica, Leon, Jason, and Larui. Over the past five terms, each student developed and refined a carefully curated body of work that expresses their artistic themes and intentions.
Each student explored a unique concept: Madison investigated how perspectives can be manipulated, linking visual illusion with global issues such as climate change. Emily created an interactive, detective-inspired exhibition that invites viewers to actively engage and uncover meaning. Annica’s work, Phoenix, explored light and darkness as symbols of resilience and transformation. Leon focused on storytelling through layers, depth, and composition, showing how subtle elements shape perception. Jason addressed stress in high school life, using cartoons to present serious topics with humor. Larui’s exhibition reflected a personal journey of identity and self-exploration, encouraging viewers to consider the question, “Who are you?” As part of their final IB Art experience, students also curated their exhibition spaces, carefully considering display, lighting, and the overall viewer experience.
Ms. Henebry, Head of the Art Department, shared her pride in the students’ commitment and growth. During the event, our students presented their work, guiding visitors through their exhibitions and reflecting on their artistic journeys.
We are very proud of our IB Art students for their hard work and creativity. Their exhibition once again demonstrated that at ISR, learning goes beyond the classroom. We wish them all the best in their upcoming IB examinations and continued success in their future academic and career paths!
ISR Nowruz Celebration 2026
ISR Nowruz Celebration 2026
Last week, our ISR Persian Community brought the spirit of Nowruz, the Persian New Year, to life at our ISR Campus in Neuss, sharing this meaningful tradition with our school community. The celebration filled our campus with joy, color, and cultural richness!
Our Persian families beautifully decorated a traditional Haft-Sin table, showcasing the seven symbolic items that represent rebirth, health, beauty, prosperity, and growth. They also prepared a selection of traditional Persian sweets, which our students, staff, and teachers were delighted to enjoy during their break and after school.
Celebrated for over 3,000 years at the spring equinox, Nowruz marks the Persian New Year and symbolizes renewal, hope, and new beginnings. At its heart lies the Haft-Sin table – “Haft” meaning seven and “Sin” referring to the Persian letter S – displaying seven meaningful items including sprouts (rebirth), garlic (health), and apples (beauty). Beyond its beautiful traditions, Nowruz remains a timeless symbol of resilience and optimism, reminding us that even after the longest winter, spring always returns.
We sincerely thank our ISR Persian Community for organizing this wonderful event and sharing their vibrant culture with us. At ISR, we celebrate the richness of our diverse community and cherish the opportunities to learn from one another’s traditions. Moments like this remind us of the strength and beauty that cultural diversity brings to our school, and we are deeply grateful for these value experiences.
Die internationale Schule ISR übernimmt von der Stadt Düsseldorf das Alte Comenius-Gebäude im Stadtteil Oberkassel und startet dort mit einem weiteren Standort für die Klassenstufen 1 bis 6 für bis zu 500 Kinder
Die internationale Schule ISR übernimmt von der Stadt Düsseldorf das Alte Comenius-Gebäude im Stadtteil Oberkassel und startet dort mit einem weiteren Standort für die Klassenstufen 1 bis 6 für bis zu 500 Kinder
Freitag, 06. März 2026
Update, Oktober 2026: Der aktuell geplante Eröffnungstermin der ISR Elementary School Düsseldorf in Oberkassel ist August 2027, vorbehaltlich des Abschlusses der Renovierungsarbeiten. Die nachfolgende Pressemitteilung dokumentiert den Planungsstand vom 6. März 2026.
Das historische Gebäude wird vor der spätestens im Jahr 2028 vorgesehenen Eröffnung der ISR Elementary School Düsseldorf umfassend renoviert / Kapazität am Neusser Standort ist ausgeschöpft / Mehr als die Hälfte der ISR-Familien kommen bereits heute aus Düsseldorf, ein überproportionaler Anteil aus dem Stadtbezirk 4 mit fußläufiger oder fahrradfreundlicher Anbindung zum neuen Schulstandort / Bring- und Abholkonzepte auf Minibus-Routen sowie Kiss-and-Go-Zone vereinfachen die Anreise zusätzlich / Bürgerinnen und Bürger sowie lokale Vereine können die ISR-Immobilie mitnutzen
Die internationale Schule ISR erweitert ihr Bildungsangebot um einen weiteren Standort. In Düsseldorf-Oberkassel hat die ISR von der Stadt das denkmalgeschützte Gebäude des ehemaligen Comenius-Gymnasiums übernommen. Dort eröffnet nach umfassender Sanierung spätestens 2028 ein weiterer Schulcampus der ISR, die ISR Elementary School Düsseldorf. Die maximale Kapazität wird bei rund 500 Schülerinnen und Schülern erreicht sein.
„Dies ist ein sehr wichtiger und notwendiger Ausbau des Angebots der ISR, da die Kapazitäten am Hauptstandort Neuss trotz zweier baulicher Erweiterungen mit rund 1.050 Schul- und Kindergartenplätzen in vielen Klassenstufen ausgeschöpft sind“, erklärt Peter Soliman, geschäftsführender Gesellschafter der ISR. „Mit dieser Erweiterung schaffen wir die Grundlage für eine langfristig erfolgreiche Weiterentwicklung der ISR.“
Deutlich kürzere Wege für die ISR-Familien
In Neuss qualifizieren sich Schülerinnen und Schüler in der Klasse 12 mit dem International Baccalaureate (IB) für das Studium an renommierten Universitäten weltweit. Aufgrund der deutlich über dem weltweiten Durchschnitt liegenden Ergebnisse erhalten Absolvierende der ISR regelmäßig Angebote international führender Universitäten, etwa von der University of Cambridge oder der London School of Economics and Political Science. Zusätzlich gehören zur ISR zwei weitere Kindergärten in Meerbusch-Büderich und Düsseldorf-Niederkassel. Letzterer befindet sich am Niederkasseler Kirchweg 36 – nur wenige Hundert Meter entfernt von der neuen ISR Elementary School Düsseldorf. Dass die Wahl eines Standorts für die Erweiterung der ISR auf Oberkassel fiel, ermöglicht diesen Kindern dann einen reibungslosen Übergang zur Grundschule. Zudem wohnen bereits heute mehr als die Hälfte der ISR-Familien in Düsseldorf. Überproportional vertreten ist dabei der Stadtbezirk 4, zu dem neben Oberkassel auch Niederkassel, Heerdt und Lörick gehören. „Viele dieser Familien können den neuen Standort künftig in deutlich kürzerer Zeit entweder zu Fuß oder mit dem Fahrrad erreichen“, erläutert Soliman einen wichtigen Vorteil: „Das kommt der Familienzeit zugute und ist nachhaltig.“ Für Familien aus anderen Wohnorten bietet die ISR – analog zum Standort Neuss – ein bewährtes Bring- und Abholkonzept mit Minibus-Routen an. Ergänzt wird dieses durch eine mit der Stadt abgestimmte Kiss-&-Go-Zone in unmittelbarer Schulnähe.
Synergieeffekte für ISR-Standorte dank Immobilienübernahme
„Wir haben uns bei dieser Schulerweiterung bewusst für die Übernahme der Immobilie in Oberkassel entschieden“, betont Peter Soliman: „Das unterstreicht die Langfristigkeit unseres Konzepts, schafft Synergieeffekte zwischen allen ISR-Standorten in Neuss, Düsseldorf und Meerbusch und nutzt die direkte Anbindung an den bestehenden Kindergarten in Düsseldorf-Niederkassel. So entsteht eine verlässliche Grundlage für die weitere Entwicklung und Vernetzung unserer Bildungsstandorte.“ Dazu gehört auch, dass an allen ISR-Standorten dasselbe bewährte Schulkonzept gilt – beispielsweise der Cambridge Framework, welcher das Fundament des Lehrplans in der Elementary School der ISR bildet.
Für die internationale Schule steht neben der akademischen Exzellenz insbesondere die individuelle Förderung im Fokus – eingebettet in ein ganzheitliches Bildungskonzept, das soziale Verantwortung und eine positive Charakterentwicklung integriert. Diese breit angelegten Lern- und Erziehungsziele sind wesentliche Gründe für das hohe Interesse an der ISR – ebenso weitere Vorteile wie der verlässliche Unterrichtsbetrieb, lange Betreuungszeiten ohne Mehrkosten sowie eine früh einsetzende und individuelle Studienberatung. Diese ist, neben den überdurchschnittlich guten Abschlussnoten an der ISR, ein entscheidender Faktor für die zahlreichen weltweiten Studienplatzangebote; rund vier pro Schülerin und Schüler im Durchschnitt.
Aktuell besuchen Schülerinnen und Schüler aus 60 verschiedenen Nationen die ISR. „Eine ähnliche internationale Struktur erwarten wir auch an unserem Standort in Oberkassel“, so Peter Soliman: „Diese Vielfalt ist eine der größten Stärken der ISR!“
Das 1912 bezogene Comenius-Gebäude war 60 Jahre lang Heimat des bekannten Düsseldorfer gleichnamigen Gymnasiums. Nach dessen Auszug wurden die Klassenräume in dem zu der Zeit dann umbenannten „Creativhaus” überwiegend als Ateliers genutzt. Seit Ende 2025 steht das Gebäude leer. „Wir sind sehr froh, dass wir dem Gebäude seine ursprüngliche Nutzung als Ort hochwertiger und wertorientierter Bildung zurückgeben können“, freut sich Soliman. Ideale Voraussetzungen bieten der passende Zuschnitt der Klassenräume, eine Aula sowie eine Sporthalle.
In Zukunft schaffen im großzügigen Außenbereich ein Spielplatz, ein Innenhof für die Pausenzeit, Fahrradständer, ein Outdoor-Learning-Amphitheater sowie weitere innovative Lernbereiche ideale Bedingungen für die Schulgemeinschaft. Zudem wird in einem aus den 1950er-Jahren stammenden Anbau nach der Eröffnung auch eine neue Cafeteria errichtet. Nutzen kann die ISR Elementary School zudem für den Sportunterricht das benachbarte Sportplatzgelände des SC Düsseldorf-West. Die Kooperation mit dem Verein besteht bereits seit mehreren Jahren.
Nutzung der ISR-Schulgebäude durch Oberkasseler Vereine möglich
Auch weitere lokale und vertiefte Kooperationen kündigt die ISR an. So kann die Sporthalle nach Schulschluss und an Wochenenden von lokalen Vereinen genutzt werden. Viele Veranstaltungen, Events und Workshops der ISR werden ebenfalls öffentlich zugänglich sein. „Das Gebäude war über Jahrzehnte identitätsstiftend für Oberkassel. Das soll so bleiben“, kündigt Soliman an. „Das Alte Comenius wird weiterhin ein bedeutender Ort für Kultur, Begegnung und Austausch im Stadtteil sein und für eine werteorientierte Bildung stehen – so wie es bereits zu der Zeit des dortigen Gymnasiums war. Der neue Schulstandort ist ein Gewinn für alle Beteiligten: für die Bürgerinnen und Bürger Düsseldorfs, für die Stadt Düsseldorf als neuen Bildungsstandort und Standortfaktor sowie für die Familien der ISR.“
Disclaimer
Die ISR International School on the Rhine mit Sitz in Neuss ist eine privat geführte internationale Ganztagsschule. Über 1.200 Schülerinnen und Schüler aus der Region und aus aller Welt bereiten sich gemeinsam auf international anerkannte Schulabschlüsse vor. Neben akademischer Exzellenz stehen Charakterbildung und soziale Verantwortung im Zentrum der Ausbildung und qualifizieren für ein Studium an führenden Universitäten in Deutschland und weltweit. Für jüngere Kinder bietet die ISR einen internationalen Kindergarten auf dem ISR-Campus in Neuss, in Düsseldorf-Niederkassel sowie eine deutschsprachige Dependance in Meerbusch-Büderich. Zudem eröffnet in Düsseldorf-Oberkassel zeitnah eine internationale Grundschule der ISR mit den Klassenstufen 1 bis 6 für bis zu 500 Kinder.
Our Student Anton's Remarkable Science Project
Our Student Anton’s Remarkable Science Project
Congratulations to our 13-year-old student, Anton!
This week, he was featured in the Rheinische Post with an interesting article about his impressive success at the regional Jugend forscht competition. His project explored the fascinating question: “Can a Drone Be Controlled with Thoughts?”
Anton received a special “Make – Creative with Technology” award for developing a brain-computer interface (BCI) that uses EEG signals to control a mini-drone. With a headset measuring brainwaves, processed via Python and Bluetooth, he can already make the drone move up and down.
Having started his research back in Grade 5, Anton now aims to contribute to the advancement of assistive technologies that support people with physical disabilities and to further explore human-machine interaction.
We are very proud of Anton and his dedication, creativity, and curiosity – he truly embodies our ISR motto: “It’s cool to be good!” Our special thanks go to Mr. O’Brien, Head of Science at ISR, for his continuous support and encouragement of our students’ innovative projects.
Please find the whole article here:
