Bulgaria, Sofia
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Five development areas are social, emotional, cognitive/creative, sensory, and motor. The main emphasis is on learning the German language, and social and emotional development is central to the program. The school values children's ideas and perspectives and incorporates them into yearly planning. Pedagogical support is based on individual learning progress across these domains. Bulgarian language lessons, Bulgarian dances, art, and music are also part of the timetable. In the preschool, Yoga is taught for one hour per week; Bulgarian language is taught two hours weekly for preschool groups and four hours weekly for preschool classes; Bulgarian dances are one hour weekly; Art is two hours weekly; Music is one hour weekly; Swimming lessons are two hours weekly for preschool classes outside school. Pickup from 15:50 to 16:00 takes place in the group rooms; from 16:00 to 18:00 children are supervised by assistants and may enroll in additional activities offered by external providers.
The school employs a Pedagogical Counselor who plays a central role in supporting the educational process and student development, connecting pedagogical expertise with an individual approach and supporting both teachers and students. The counselor contributes to teachers' professional development, advises on curricula, analyzes data, collaborates with the school leadership, and supports students with special needs. The counselor also organizes educational events and develops methodological materials, contributing to the ongoing improvement of teaching practices. The counselor is essential for achieving a high standard of education at the school.
Englisch is taught as a subject within the Grundschule curricula. The Grundschule curricula page lists Englisch alongside Bulgarisch als Muttersprache, Deutsch, Deutsch als Fremdsprache and MNK. The language of instruction in Grundschule is German, and Bulgarian language and culture are studied as well.
The school provides educational counseling to support student development and wellbeing. The pedagogical counselor works to enhance the learning process, provides curriculum guidance, analyzes data, collaborates with the school leadership, and supports students with special needs. The counselor's work is integral to delivering high-quality education at the school. Contact: Frau Zora Russinova, Block S, 2nd floor, Room 8; Email: zrussinova@ds-sofia.bg; appointments by arrangement.
Deutsche Schule Sofia is a German-Bulgarian joint school in Sofia serving ages 5 to 18 with the German Curriculum. The school offers grades 1–12 under the German general education system, and preschool for three- to six-year-olds. Instruction in German follows German curricula and standards; after twelve years students take the Abitur, enabling access to higher education in Germany and Bulgaria. Bulgarian-speaking students study Bulgarian language and literature, history, and geography under adapted Bulgarian curricula. The Ministry of Education coordinates oversight, and the school is operated by the Association of Parents of the German-Bulgarian Encounter School Sofia. Facilities include a library, biology and chemistry rooms, a computer room, an art room, a music room, a canteen, and a school staff room, plus on-site preschool and a schoolyard. The school maintains a digital concept and runs iPad-based teaching. Distinctive programs include Erasmus+ exchanges, Model United Nations, and a November conference held annually.