Selecting a school in Germany can seem like the most overwhelming aspect of moving with children. Online information seldom shows what daily life is really like, and every family’s priorities vary. This guide concentrates on practical questions and a straightforward decision framework — particularly for families planning a move to Berlin.
First: Define What “Good” Means for Your Family
Before assessing options, establish your non-negotiables. Most choices go astray when families weigh everything at once without a clear set of priorities.
- Commute: the amount of time spent commuting each day matters more than you might expect.
- Curriculum: options such as British / American / IB / local programs.
- Language environment: the language exposure your child experiences throughout the day.
- Support: learning assistance, ESL support, pastoral care.
- Culture fit: overall structure, disciplinary approach, and communication style.
How to Choose Without Getting Overwhelmed
A practical method that suits expat families well:
A straightforward process
- Shortlist by location first. In Berlin, traffic can make a decent school feel like a daily burden.
- Confirm availability and admissions timeline. Waiting lists are common.
- Ask about the classroom reality. Class sizes, teacher turnover, communication style.
- Ask about support. ESL / learning support / transition support for new students.
- Do one visit (or virtual tour) per finalist. Trust your observations more than glossy brochures.
Pro tip: Create a single-page checklist and rate each school after visiting. It helps avoid the sense that everything feels identical.
Questions Worth Asking Schools
These questions typically elicit more than generic “tell us about your program” discussions:
- What is the typical class size for this age?
- How do you handle new students mid-year?
- How do teachers communicate with parents (weekly updates, apps, email)?
- What does a typical day look like (start and end times, breaks, homework expectations)?
- How do you support kids who are anxious or adjusting to a new country?
- What is the policy on language support (ESL) if needed?
- How is heat managed; indoor/outdoor time during hotter months?
Costs & Logistics (The Part Nobody Enjoys)
Choosing a school isn't only about tuition. Consider the complete daily cost of living with it:
Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
- Deciding based on reputation alone: the everyday schedule matters more.
- Overlooking commute time: it influences sleep, mood, and family life.
- Assuming “international” implies uniform meaning everywhere: it doesn’t.
- Failing to inquire about support: transitions are real for children.
- Waiting too long: admission timelines may be tighter than anticipated.
Bottom Line Insight
The ideal school usually fits your family's real schedule: location, support, and everyday ease for your child — not the one that carries the most eye-catching marketing.
If you’d like help sorting priorities for Berlin (commute, routines, what to ask), get in touch — or call +49 30 2345678.