Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into everything you need to know about the Frankfurt International School (FIS). Whether you're a parent considering sending your kids there, a student curious about the school's offerings, or just someone interested in international education, this guide has got you covered. So, let's get started!

Overview of Frankfurt International School

Frankfurt International School, or FIS as it's commonly known, is a leading international school located in Frankfurt, Germany. Established in 1961, FIS has a long-standing tradition of providing high-quality education to a diverse student body. With students representing over 60 nationalities, FIS truly embodies the spirit of internationalism. The school follows an international curriculum, primarily the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, which is recognized and respected worldwide. This focus on international education prepares students for success in a globalized world, fostering critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and a passion for lifelong learning.

FIS is more than just a school; it's a community. The school's mission is to empower students to become responsible global citizens who are equipped to make a positive impact on the world. This mission is reflected in the school's values, which include respect, responsibility, integrity, and compassion. The school's commitment to these values creates a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students feel safe, valued, and challenged to reach their full potential.

The campus itself is modern and well-equipped, featuring state-of-the-art classrooms, science labs, libraries, and athletic facilities. The school's commitment to technology is also evident in its integration of technology into the curriculum. Students have access to a wide range of digital resources, which enhances their learning experience and prepares them for the demands of the 21st century. Moreover, FIS offers a wide array of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and clubs, providing students with opportunities to explore their interests, develop their talents, and build lasting friendships.

Academics at FIS

Academically, FIS is renowned for its rigorous and comprehensive programs. The school offers the full IB continuum, including the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the Diploma Programme (DP). Each of these programs is designed to challenge students intellectually, develop their critical thinking skills, and prepare them for future academic success.

The Primary Years Programme (PYP), for students aged 3 to 11, focuses on inquiry-based learning. This approach encourages students to ask questions, explore their interests, and construct their own understanding of the world. The PYP curriculum is transdisciplinary, meaning that it integrates different subject areas to provide students with a holistic learning experience. Through the PYP, students develop essential skills such as research, communication, and problem-solving, which are crucial for their future academic success.

The Middle Years Programme (MYP), for students aged 11 to 16, builds on the foundation laid by the PYP. The MYP curriculum is designed to help students develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. Students are encouraged to make connections between their learning and real-world issues, fostering a sense of social responsibility. The MYP also emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills, research skills, and communication skills. These skills are essential for success in the IB Diploma Programme and beyond.

The Diploma Programme (DP), for students aged 16 to 19, is a challenging and rigorous pre-university course of study that leads to a qualification recognized by leading universities worldwide. The DP curriculum is designed to provide students with a broad and balanced education, while also allowing them to specialize in areas of interest. Students are required to take six subjects, as well as complete an extended essay, a theory of knowledge course, and a creativity, activity, service (CAS) project. The DP is widely regarded as one of the best pre-university programs in the world, and FIS students consistently achieve excellent results in the DP examinations.

Campus and Facilities

The campus and facilities at Frankfurt International School are truly top-notch. FIS is located on a sprawling campus that provides students with ample space to learn, play, and explore. The school boasts state-of-the-art classrooms that are equipped with the latest technology, creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment. In addition to classrooms, FIS also has well-equipped science labs, libraries, and computer labs, providing students with access to the resources they need to succeed.

For students who are interested in sports, FIS offers a wide range of athletic facilities, including a gymnasium, a swimming pool, and sports fields. These facilities allow students to participate in a variety of sports, promoting physical fitness and teamwork. The school also has a performing arts center, which includes a theater, music rooms, and dance studios. This center provides students with opportunities to explore their creativity and develop their talents in the performing arts. The school's commitment to providing students with a well-rounded education is evident in its investment in these facilities.

Beyond the academic and athletic facilities, FIS also has a cafeteria, a bookstore, and a health center. These facilities are designed to support the well-being of students and ensure that they have everything they need to succeed. The school also has a dedicated team of counselors who provide students with academic, personal, and social support. The counselors work closely with students to help them navigate the challenges of adolescence and prepare for their future.

The school's commitment to sustainability is also evident in its campus design. FIS has implemented a number of green initiatives, such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting, to reduce its environmental impact. The school also has a garden where students can learn about sustainable agriculture and grow their own food. This commitment to sustainability reflects the school's values and its desire to create a better world for future generations.

Extracurricular Activities

FIS offers a wide array of extracurricular activities to cater to the diverse interests and talents of its students. These activities provide students with opportunities to explore their passions, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships. Whether your child is interested in sports, music, drama, or academics, there's sure to be something for them at FIS.

For students who are interested in sports, FIS offers a variety of options, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, swimming, and track and field. The school has a competitive sports program, with teams competing against other international schools in Europe. However, FIS also offers recreational sports programs for students who are not interested in competitive sports. These programs provide students with opportunities to stay active, have fun, and learn new skills. The school's commitment to sports is evident in its excellent athletic facilities and its dedicated coaching staff.

If your child is more interested in the arts, FIS offers a wide range of programs in music, drama, and visual arts. The school has a choir, a band, and an orchestra, as well as drama clubs and art clubs. These programs provide students with opportunities to express their creativity, develop their talents, and perform in front of an audience. The school also hosts a number of arts events throughout the year, such as concerts, plays, and art exhibitions. These events showcase the talents of FIS students and provide them with a platform to share their work with the community.

In addition to sports and the arts, FIS also offers a variety of academic clubs and organizations. These clubs provide students with opportunities to explore their interests in subjects such as science, math, and history. The school also has a debate club, a Model United Nations club, and a student government association. These organizations provide students with opportunities to develop their leadership skills, learn about current events, and make a difference in their community. FIS believes that extracurricular activities are an essential part of a well-rounded education, and the school is committed to providing students with a wide range of opportunities to explore their interests and develop their talents.

Admission to FIS

The admission process to FIS is competitive, as the school attracts students from all over the world. The school looks for students who are academically strong, have a passion for learning, and are committed to making a positive contribution to the school community. The admission process typically involves an application, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and an interview. Depending on the grade level, students may also be required to take an entrance exam.

The application process begins with submitting an online application form. The application form asks for information about the student's academic background, extracurricular activities, and personal interests. Applicants are also required to submit transcripts from their previous schools. The transcripts provide the admissions committee with information about the student's academic performance. In addition to transcripts, applicants are also required to submit letters of recommendation from teachers or other adults who know them well. The letters of recommendation provide the admissions committee with insights into the student's character, work ethic, and potential.

After the application is submitted, the admissions committee reviews the application materials and selects candidates for an interview. The interview is an opportunity for the admissions committee to get to know the applicant better and assess their suitability for FIS. During the interview, applicants may be asked about their academic interests, extracurricular activities, and personal goals. Depending on the grade level, applicants may also be required to take an entrance exam. The entrance exam is designed to assess the student's academic skills and knowledge. The admissions committee uses all of the information gathered during the application process to make a decision about whether to admit the student to FIS. The school aims to create a diverse and talented student body, and the admissions process is designed to identify students who will thrive in the school's challenging and supportive learning environment.

In Conclusion

So, there you have it – a comprehensive look at Frankfurt International School (FIS)! From its rigorous academics and top-notch facilities to its diverse extracurricular activities and commitment to internationalism, FIS offers a truly exceptional educational experience. If you're looking for a school that will challenge your child intellectually, prepare them for success in a globalized world, and foster their personal growth, FIS is definitely worth considering. Hope this guide has been helpful, and best of luck with your educational journey!