International schools in Germany almost always teach in English as the main language of instruction, add German as a required subject, and often offer another foreign language from a certain age. Many schools introduce this third language, such as French, Spanish, Chinese, or Japanese, around grade 6. The exact offering depends on the school, but the basic principle is similar at most international schools.
In this article, we answer the questions parents ask most often when looking into the language programs at international schools.
Which Languages Do Children Learn at International Schools in Germany?
At most international schools in Germany, English is at the center. It is the language in which math, the sciences, history, and all other core subjects are taught. German is almost always added, either as a required subject or as a strongly recommended one. Many schools also offer a third language, such as French, Spanish, Chinese, or Japanese.
The goal of this multilingualism is practical: children should not only become academically strong but also be able to communicate in a globalized world. Students who master three languages have significantly more opportunities at university and later in their careers.
What Are the Advantages of English as the Language of Instruction for Our Family?
English has established itself worldwide as the language of science and education. Most internationally recognized qualifications, such as the Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, are examined in English. Universities in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, the Netherlands, and many other countries expect applicants to have very good English skills.
For internationally mobile families, English as the language of instruction is also practical: a child who attends an English-language international school in Germany can continue without a major disruption after a move to Singapore, London, or New York. This gives families flexibility and children stability.
Do Students at International Schools in Germany Have to Learn German?
Yes, at most international schools in Germany, German is a required subject, even though English is the language of instruction. This is not only sensible but also important for certain qualifications. Anyone living in Germany benefits from speaking the language of everyday life, and anyone who later wants to study at a German university needs sufficient German skills.
Good schools distinguish between students for whom German is their native language and those who are learning German as a foreign language. These two groups have different starting points and need different teaching approaches. A child who has just moved to Germany should not be in the same group as a child who has spoken German since birth.
From What Age Can Children Learn a Third Language at an International School?
This varies from school to school, but many international schools introduce a third language in middle school, around grade 6. At this age, children already have a solid foundation in their first language and in English, so adding another language works well.
The choice often includes European languages such as French or Spanish, but also languages such as Chinese or Japanese, which are becoming increasingly important in terms of economic relevance. Which language a child chooses depends on their interests, their goals, and sometimes their family background. Parents should consider this together with their child without putting too much pressure on them.
What Is the Difference Between a German School and an International School When It Comes to Languages?
At a regular German school, German is the language of instruction. English is taught as a foreign language but often only starts in grade 3 or 5. At an international school, it is the other way around: English is the language of instruction, and German is taught as a foreign language or as a required subject.
Another difference is the intensity of language learning. International schools are often set up so that children work in several languages every day, not just in one foreign language class per week. As a result, students do not just learn languages formally but actively use them, which significantly accelerates language development.
The qualifications are also different: while German schools prepare students for the Abitur, international schools offer qualifications such as the IB Diploma or the Cambridge IGCSE, which are recognized by universities worldwide. However, many international schools also make it possible to obtain the German university entrance qualification through these qualifications.
What Language Skills Do Children Need to Be Admitted to an International School in Germany?
This is one of the questions parents ask most often, and the answer is often more encouraging than expected: many international schools do not require perfect English, especially not at a young age. Children learn languages quickly when they are exposed to them every day. An international school with a good language support program can support children well even if they are just starting out.
In kindergarten and elementary school, the language barrier is generally the lowest. The older a child is, the more important a basic knowledge of English becomes, because the subject matter becomes more complex and a child without a language foundation can quickly fall behind. Parents who are unsure should ask the school directly and get advice on what support is offered.
German is usually not a criterion for admission to an international school, since many families have recently moved to Germany and do not yet speak the language. International schools are designed for exactly this situation.
How Does ISR International School on the Rhine Support Families With Multilingualism?
Multilingualism does not happen by itself. It requires a well-thought-out concept, experienced teachers, and an environment in which languages are truly lived. That is exactly our approach at ISR International School on the Rhine in Neuss, near Düsseldorf, Germany, all the way to the IGCSE Certificate at ISR and beyond.
- English as the language of instruction in all core subjects throughout, from elementary school to graduation
- German as a required subject for all students, differentiated by language level, whether as a native or a foreign language
- A third language is added from grade 6: French, Spanish, Japanese, or Chinese, depending on interests and goals
- Our kindergartens in Neuss and Düsseldorf teach in English with weekly German lessons; our kindergarten in Meerbusch offers a German-language concept with an optional English program
- Internationally recognized qualifications such as the Cambridge IGCSE and the IB Diploma, which open doors to universities in Germany and worldwide
- Individual language support for children who are new to English or German, so no one is left on their own
If you would like to learn more about how we support your child’s language development and prepare them for an internationally recognized qualification, we warmly invite you to attend one of the ISR Info Days, a great opportunity to get to know the school and ask your questions directly.
