Frankfurt International School

Frankfurt International School (FIS) is one of the largest and oldest international schools in Europe and enjoys an excellent reputation worldwide. It employs over 300 well-qualified and experienced faculty and staff from 20 different countries across two campuses. The school is organized into four school divisions: the Primary Division age 3 to Grade 1, the Elementary Division Grades 2-5, and the Upper School Grades 6-12, all of which are in Oberursel. FIS operates another division in nearby Wiesbaden for students age 3 to Grade 8. FIS is a founding member of the International Baccalaureate Organization (IB) and has been deeply involved in the development of the international curriculum as well as training teachers in its implementation. FIS takes an inquiry-based approach to learning utilizing the Primary Years Program and the IB Diploma Program. The school is known for its excellent college placements and exceptional IB exam results. English is the language of instruction with non-native English speakers receiving English Language Acquisition classes until they attain fluency. German is mandatory and offered as a foreign and first language. Instruction in Spanish and French start in Grade 6. In addition, FIS has a First Language Program for students wishing to maintain their fluency in Korean, Dutch and Japanese. FIS is committed to educating the whole child. Therefore, it offers a well-rounded curriculum with strong academics, extensive programs in athletics, the performing arts, visual arts and digital arts, as well as a broad range of extra-curricular activities, clubs and service projects. Because of its size, FIS can offer a large number of courses beyond core classes like Design Technology, Coding and Design for Change. The school operates an advanced information technology support system and also carries an inventory of devices for use by elementary and primary school students. High school students benefit from a dynamic 1-1 laptop learning program. FIS has intentionally increased its focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), including hiring STEM coaches, building new labs and equipment such as virtual reality platforms and 3D microscopes. The goal is to provide students with opportunities that not only enhance their learning experiences, but introduce technology as a learning tool as well. The excellent facilities include two campuses with three outdoor athletic fields, separate divisional buildings as well as a Science, Design - Technology, and Performing Arts Center. The recently opened Stroth Center for Learning and Athletics provides an outstanding addition to the campus, including a fitness center for the whole school community. Further strengths of the school are the deep commitment to the family as an integral part of the school community and its exceptional leadership. The latter has been recognized through two international educational awards given to the FIS Head of School and the Wiesbaden principal in recent years.