In our international school community, learning is about more than academic achievement. It is a place where children grow as individuals. Through regular interaction and collaboration, they develop important social skills and strengthen their intercultural competence. They learn to value different perspectives, practise empathy and build mutual respect. These are essential qualities for shaping a peaceful and connected world in the future.
At our secondary school, science and mathematics are taught in English. This subject-specific language focus equips students with the skills to engage with international academic content, particularly in science, where many texts are available only in English. Subjects such as history, politics/economics, ethics and German are taught in German. Other subjects are taught bilingually, depending on the native language of the teaching staff. We place a special emphasis on STEM subjects to prepare students for a technology-driven future.
In Years 6 and 10, children expand their language repertoire by adding Spanish and/or French as a second or third foreign language. Many children also bring additional languages from home, enriching our school’s linguistic and cultural diversity.
As a recognised “STEM-friendly school,” we place great value on inspiring interest and building skills in mathematics, computer science, science and technology. Through hands-on and innovative teaching methods, students not only receive a solid academic foundation but also have frequent opportunities to apply their knowledge through experiments, projects and interactive learning formats.
Our bilingual after-school programme offers students the opportunity to deepen their practical STEM skills and strengthen their problem-solving abilities. Children enjoy more freedom in planning and conducting experiments and gain insight into STEM careers and internship preparation. Participation is free for all Phorms students; external participants pay €120 per semester, which includes materials and participation fees. The programme encourages a sustained interest in STEM and supports participation in competitions where students can showcase their achievements.
We consider personal development a key part of daily school life. It enables students to grow not only academically but also emotionally and socially. Our school psychologist, a fully qualified child and youth therapist, is available throughout the day to provide support. We focus on the following core aspects.
Our students develop a clear understanding of their own abilities and values. This builds confidence and resilience, helping them to navigate challenges and stand up for themselves.
Through the principles of positive psychology, such as viewing setbacks as learning opportunities, children learn to remain optimistic and resilient even under pressure.
Social skills are key to forming respectful, empathetic relationships. Students learn to resolve conflicts constructively and collaborate effectively, which contributes to a positive school culture.
We teach children to take initiative, think creatively and support others. These skills prepare them for future leadership roles and for acting responsibly in a variety of life situations.
We support the development of individual strengths through independent learning. Creative teaching approaches and interdisciplinary team and project work create a dynamic learning environment. In Years 5 and 6, Homeroom lessons cover time management, workspace organisation and the use of digital tools such as MS Teams.
We encourage active learning through excursions, hands-on experiments and model building. Children are encouraged to explore topics creatively and present their results confidently. This strengthens both trust and responsibility, creating a safe environment for academic and personal growth.
There is no homework in Year 5. From Year 6 onward, tasks are assigned according to clear and transparent guidelines - for example, vocabulary review or test preparation. We make sure our students have enough time for rest and leisure, recognising their importance in a balanced development.
Our classrooms are equipped with interactive whiteboards, and every student has access to a laptop. This enables them to practise digital skills such as researching, writing, working with data and creating presentations. Modern media use also enhances engagement and learning progress.
From Years 5 to 7, we provide structured media education (ICT). From Year 8 onwards, computer science becomes a regular subject to build advanced digital competencies and prepare students for the digital world.
Our school is officially accredited to offer the German upper secondary school qualification, the Abitur. This diploma grants our students general university entrance qualifications in Germany and is recognised by universities across Europe and beyond.
In Year 10, our students can take the IGCSE examinations. This internationally recognised qualification is especially valuable when applying to universities abroad.
Reflecting our bilingual profile, our curriculum combines the core requirements of the Hessian state curriculum with elements of the Cambridge Programme. This dual focus enables our students to develop academic competencies that go beyond the national standards. The IGCSE serves as a key benchmark for learning achievement in Year 10.
University preparation begins in Year 10 and is a central part of our educational approach. During the qualification phase (E-Phase), students visit the Job Center in Bad Homburg, including the career information centre (BIZ) and the job listings portal (SIZ). There, they receive personalised advice and answers to their questions from experienced career counsellors.
Our tutors provide individual guidance to support students in making informed decisions about life after school – whether they pursue a voluntary social year, a gap year abroad (e.g. Work & Travel), vocational training or university studies. They are also available for consultations in the year after graduation. Increasingly, we involve our alumni in mentoring and preparation programmes to share their own experiences and insights.
Our students gain early insights into the economy and labour market. Starting in Year 5, they participate in the annual Girls’ and Boys’ Day. From Year 9 onwards, they complete a two-week social internship and engage in service learning projects.
From Year 5, we encourage our students to take part in the national Girls’ and Boys’ Day, also known as Zukunftstag. This gives them first impressions of professional life in a variety of sectors. The activities are embedded in classroom learning, with structured preparation and reflection.
In Years 9 and 10, students complete a total of two weeks of work experience in a company or organisation of their choice. While they are expected to find a placement independently, we offer support if needed. These internships help students explore career options and ease the transition from school to the world of work.
As a STEM-friendly school, we offer our children opportunities to take part in competitions, explore independent research projects, and gain hands-on experience in our Science Lab. We foster an inspiring environment that nurtures their natural curiosity and encourages them to ask questions and discover the world around them.
The Phorms Science Center supports our students in developing their STEM competencies and problem-solving skills. With greater freedom for experimentation and insights into STEM-related careers, participants are well prepared for future internships. The weekly program builds enthusiasm for STEM fields and inspires long-term interest in scientific careers.
The First Lego League is an international competition combining robotics, teamwork and research. Our children design and program robots, compete in themed challenges and present their findings. Along the way, they strengthen creative thinking, collaboration and leadership skills.
The German National Computer Science Competition invites students to deepen their coding skills and work as a team in solving real-world programming tasks. At our Science Center, the Coding Competition Club provides a dedicated space to collaborate on innovative projects.
In the “Join In” chemistry project, students work in teams of up to three to conduct experiments, document their findings and analyse them using scientific methods. The hands-on format strengthens their understanding of chemistry through practical application.
As part of the “Jugend forscht” competition, students design and carry out their own scientific projects. Their work is presented to a jury of researchers. Our first team entered in 2019 with a chemistry project on BPA migration from plastics and went on to win the regional competition. Topics for future projects include interferometry, ecology and other interdisciplinary areas.
In this program, senior students explore ecological issues and participate in the Federal Environmental Competition. Working on an in-depth conservation project, they prepare a comprehensive report and, at the end of the school year, take part in a field-based internship at the Institute of Marine Biology in Tuscany.
Open to students in Years 10 to 12, the International Olympiads are structured in four stages: school, regional, national and international. They cover a broad range of topics in each discipline. High achievers may receive book and cash prizes, travel grants and recognition from organisations such as the German Academic Scholarship Foundation.
The Mathematics Olympiad challenges students from Years 5 to 12 to solve complex mathematical problems creatively. Participants can progress from local rounds to the international level. The competition supports perseverance, analytical thinking and advanced problem-solving skills.
Our excursion programme includes visits to Experimenta, university workshops in Frankfurt, research placements at GSI Darmstadt and marine biology field trips to Tuscany. These experiences deepen our students’ knowledge and enthusiasm for STEM-related subjects.
G8 or G9: At our school, families can choose whether their child completes the Abitur programme in eight years (G8) or nine years (G9).
Lower secondary school includes Years 5 and 6 and marks the beginning of secondary education. We support students as they transition from primary school into a new learning and school environment. They gradually take on more responsibility, structure their day more independently and grow into their role as secondary school students. Our approach fosters motivation, a love of learning and a positive attitude towards achievement. We provide targeted support where needed and offer room for personal growth where strengths are visible. Through individual guidance, clear structures and a respectful school culture, we lay the foundation for the years to come.
We offer a wide range of exciting clubs that enrich school life and encourage students to discover and deepen their interests. In the Brain Teaser Club, they decode messages and solve logic puzzles. The Practical Science Club inspires curiosity through hands-on experiments and introduces scientific thinking. Drama and Theatre Club invites students to explore improvisation, creativity and acting. The German Club builds reading and writing skills while promoting language confidence. The Math Club provides playful and individualised practice. In the English Club, students expand their vocabulary and communication skills through collaborative and creative tasks.
As an alternative to regular music lessons, students can choose to join the Wind Class. Over two school years, they learn an orchestral wind instrument of their choice, with the exception of oboe and bassoon, and play music together from the very beginning. Each student receives a high-quality loan instrument, which can be purchased at the end of the project. Making music together promotes musical development, teamwork and social responsibility. Students learn to listen to each other – musically and socially – and build a strong sense of community.
We offer significantly more German lessons than state schools, which is reflected in our strong results in the nationwide VERA assessments. Our cross-school support concept ensures individualised learning support during lessons and in separate sessions. Students with German as an additional or foreign language receive tailored lessons delivered by qualified teachers as part of the regular timetable. Students with diagnosed reading and spelling difficulties are supported through a structured, multi-step programme. In close cooperation with the renowned DUDEN Institute, we provide on-site support in small groups or one-on-one settings. Even in the case of severe spelling difficulties without a formal diagnosis, students can access support on a voluntary, fee-based basis.
From Year 5 onwards, we actively support the personal development of our students. In addition to academic skills, our teaching also focuses on social learning and self-reflection. During regular lessons, students practise teamwork, build self-confidence and participate in anti-bullying and resilience training. These experiences help students to grow as individuals and to take responsibility in their private lives and in society.
The House System creates a sense of community across all classes and year groups. Every student is part of a house from the start. These houses connect students of all ages and encourage cooperation, mutual support and teamwork. Houses earn points through competitions, projects, sports and creative events. This system fosters friendships, responsibility and school spirit while strengthening a respectful and cohesive learning environment.
In Years 7 to 10, students receive a broad general education. We deepen subject knowledge in science and social studies and expand the curriculum with career orientation, social learning and off-campus experiences. This phase builds personal and academic competencies and prepares students for the requirements of the higher secondary school.
Our students regularly take on individual and group challenges that go beyond traditional classroom learning. These experiences foster personal growth, courage and resilience. Through activities such as multi-day hikes, climbing courses, student performances and public speaking events, students develop social skills and a strong sense of responsibility.
Starting in Year 8, students can train as school paramedics. They are on duty during school events and offer first aid when needed. This important responsibility strengthens their confidence and teaches them how to act calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
In the Debating Club, students develop their ability to present and defend arguments in English while engaging with current social and global issues. They practise respectful discourse and strengthen their critical thinking and rhetorical skills. They regularly participate in competitions such as the DSG Junior League and international formats like the World Schools Debating Championships. These experiences enhance language proficiency, personality development and persuasive communication.
The club not only offers space for intensive training, but also opens doors: we regularly take part in competitions such as the DSG Junior League in the format of the World Schools Debating Championships. In addition, formats such as the Model United Nations create real encounters with peers from all over Europe. ° Member of the German National Debating Team (since 2022) | ° Champion in the School Debate League 2022/2023 | ° Runner-up in the School Debate League (2023/2024)
Through our partnership with the town of Steinbach and its Socially Integrative City initiative, students spend a school afternoon each week supporting people in need. They go for walks, read aloud or simply keep someone company. These encounters foster empathy and social awareness.
Our timetable includes significantly more German lessons than those offered at state schools, and this is clearly reflected in our strong performance. Despite our bilingual school concept, students at our schools regularly achieve above-average results in nationwide standardised assessments such as VERA. Our cross-campus support approach ensures that every child receives individual assistance, both within regular lessons and through targeted support sessions. Students who are learning German as an additional or foreign language receive tailor-made language support provided by qualified teachers, fully integrated into daily school life. Children with diagnosed reading and spelling difficulties benefit from a proven multi-stage support model that addresses their needs in a structured and effective way.
In close partnership with the renowned DUDEN Institute, we provide personalised learning sessions directly on campus, either in one-to-one settings or in small groups. Student progress is monitored regularly in close cooperation with teaching staff. Even in cases of severe spelling difficulties without a formal dyslexia diagnosis, families can access this support on a voluntary, fee-based basis. Through this comprehensive support system, we ensure that every student receives the language development they need to succeed confidently in both languages.
Our language trips to France, Spain and the United States provide students with the opportunity to put their language skills to practical use and experience different cultures firsthand. Whether through exchanges with partner schools, homestays with local families or collaborative projects, students expand their linguistic abilities and gain valuable insights into global perspectives. These experiences strengthen independence, intercultural awareness and social adaptability.
The higher secondary school includes Years 11 to 13 (in G9) or Years 10 to 12 (in G8) and leads students to the Abitur. In this important phase, students deepen their academic knowledge, choose specialised subjects and take greater responsibility for their learning path. In addition to preparing for central Abitur exams, they receive orientation for higher education and career choices. Personalised course selections and academic advising help them identify and pursue individual strengths and interests. We offer all advanced courses permitted under the Hessian School Act. Sport can also be selected as the fifth examination subject.
We encourage our students to engage with current political and societal issues and to express their views confidently and respectfully. Our project-based teaching includes topics such as climate policy and digitalisation, and promotes awareness of democracy, diversity of opinion and civic engagement. At the same time, rhetoric training enhances their ability to communicate clearly and effectively, preparing them for responsible participation in public life.
Through participation in the international Model United Nations programme, students assume the role of delegates and represent countries in English-language debates on global issues. At MUN conferences, such as those at our school campus in Munich, students experience diplomacy firsthand and learn how international decisions are negotiated. This project promotes critical thinking, intercultural understanding and teamwork, while fostering a deep appreciation for global cooperation.
Our students in Years 5 and 6 are welcomed and cared for until the start of school.
The students are taught their subjects.
For a balanced and healthy diet, our regional organic caterer’s chefs prepare fresh meals daily in the kitchen.
The students are taught their subjects.
Our educational staff offer afternoon programme for an additional fee. In addition to the regular childcare services, the children can also take part in various clubs during this time.
Our level leaders provide reliable support throughout the school years. They accompany the students personally and consistently during their entire school time and serve as fixed contacts for parents, teachers and of course the students themselves. Their role goes beyond school matters to include social and personal development. With a holistic view of each student's learning journey, they monitor individual progress. Continuous exchange and close communication ensure that challenges are identified early and resolved together.
In Year 5, the transition from primary to secondary school is a major step. Our school administrators provide intensive support to ensure a good start for every child.
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In Year 6, the goal is to deepen self-confidence and consolidate learning structures. The level leaders actively support this phase by promoting personal responsibility and self-organization.
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Years 7 and 8 bring puberty with new questions, challenges and dynamics. The stage leaders create space for personal development and accompany this sensitive phase with great experience.
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In Years 9 and 10, the focus shifts toward the personal future. The stage leaders help students recognize their individual strengths and prepare for important transitions.
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During Years 10 to 12 or the E-phase and Q4, the head of the higher school accompanies students on their way to the Abitur and beyond.
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We offer more than 800 free live activities to specifically promote special talents and gifts. This offer is available during and after school hours. ►more about the "Digital revolving door" project
Its aim is to get children and young people interested in STEM — science, technology, engineering and mathematics — and to find and promote young talent. The participants work on projects on questions they have chosen themselves from the STEM field. The results are then presented to the competition jury. Two students from our campus won the decisive prize in the physics category in 2023.
The DofE Award programme supports young people in over 130 countries in their personal development. It motivates them to set their own goals and challenges in four areas: volunteering, physical fitness, talents and expedition. Participants engage in each area weekly for three months and document their progress. They also independently plan and carry out a two-day expedition including navigation and meal preparation.
Our school cafeteria offers students a selection of healthy snacks and drinks available for purchase during breaks. We ensure the range is both tasty and balanced, perfect for a little refreshment in between. From yogurt to healthy sandwiches, there is something for every taste. A variety of unsweetened drinks such as fruit juices and mineral water is also available.
Our organic-certified regional meals are prepared daily by FPS Catering and take into account the vegetarian and religious needs of our students. Fresh raw vegetables are served every day along with a healthy snack in the afternoon. Shared meals with teachers promote a sense of community and create a pleasant atmosphere at the table. Water is, of course, available throughout the day.
Our learning center offers media in German, English, Spanish and French and is firmly integrated into the timetable. Students can also borrow books, learn, meet friends or simply relax during the lunch break.