New to German
GISB is committed to offering a bilingual education to as many students as possible.
Children entering preschool or kindergarten do not need to speak or understand German. Students entering grades 1 – 5 who have little to no German language skills can apply for our Fast Track program, an accelerated language program for motivated students.
Preschool – Kindergarten
GISB’s language-immersion program in preschool and kindergarten does not require any prior German knowledge. In our preschool and kindergarten program, children with all levels of German language ability, from absolute beginners to native speakers, are welcomed, supported, and challenged. Teachers will speak exclusively German with your child, using a range of methods to promote language learning and small group sizes ensure individual attention and support.
Children who are not fluent in German are supported through additional language support as needed. Non-German speakers in Kindergarten join our Junior Fast Track Program, designed to provide additional language support in a small group environment.
Grades 1 – 5: Fast Track Program
Fast Track is a student-centered, rigorous program that enables motivated students with little or no prior German knowledge to learn German at an accelerated pace. Qualified students have the opportunity to enroll in a rich language-immersion program embedded in an independent school learning environment with small classes, dedicated teachers, and unique opportunities. By enrolling in GISB’s German Fast Track Program, your child will participate in Germany’s challenging academic curriculum after one or two years (depending on grade level) of intensive language support.
No previous German is required for students applying to the Fast Track program in grades 1-4. Students applying to the grade 5 Fast Track program are expected to speak and understand some German (Level A2 – according to Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Learn More
Fast Track …
- is engaging and intensive
- is designed and taught by experienced master educators
- prepares students to participate in GISB’s regular bilingual curriculum
- includes frequent dedicated German instructions together with other Fast Track students and one-on-one or very small group support in regular GISB classes
- is tailored to your child’s individual strengths
While the focus of the Fast Track program is your child’s German language skills, we will partner with you and your child to advance their academic and social abilities across a range of skills and subjects. Math, science, English, the arts, and physical education are all part of your Fast Track experience. Through a rigorous and exciting German language program combined with supported participation in a regular classroom, your child can form close friendships and enjoy their favorite subjects while working steadily on German fluency.
Candidates for the GISB Fast Track Program are
- eager to tackle the challenge of an intensive language-learning experience
- highly motivated and curious about the world and the people around them
- able to demonstrate above-average academic potential and achievement
Visit our Admissions FAQ section to learn more about the program. Please contact GISB’s Director of Admission & Enrollment at admissions@gisbos.org, with questions or for more information.
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