Germany, Dusseldorf
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Independent Bonn International School (IBIS) is an Ersatzschule in Bonn, serving ages 3-12. It follows EYFS and the British Curriculum, with Cambridge Primary and Secondary, and integrates English and German. Key Stage 1 is based on the English National Curriculum, adapted by IBIS teachers to reflect Bonn's local culture and international community. Cambridge Curriculum supplements Maths, English and Science at Key Stage 3. IBIS offers a route to German secondary schools and international programs. Since 1963 the school has welcomed more than 38 nations, fostering a stable international community. The Heiderhof campus in Bonn-Bad Godesberg sits in rural surroundings with easy access to Bonn and Rhine. Facilities include a classroom for each year, EAL and Learning Development spaces, a music room, a library with 5,000+ books, a kitchen and interactive whiteboards. Its wellbeing programme is award-winning; IBIS was the first German school to receive Carnegie Bronze Award and COBIS Beacon status.
Tulpenbaumweg 42, 53177 Bonn, Germany
Independent Bonn International School has instruction in English.
Tulpenbaumweg 42, 53177 Bonn. The school is located on the Heiderhof, a quiet residential area within Bonn-Bad Godesberg. By car, the town centre of Bad Godesberg is 5 minutes away and Bonn city centre is 15 minutes away. It is near the public bus service with regular 611 and 613 buses stopping near the school, connecting with the U-Bahn at Stadthalle or Rheinallee and Bad Godesberg railway station.
For children aged 3 to 12, the school operates at the primary level.
Private, state-approved substitute (Ersatzschule) for the primary level.
Over 38 nationalities represented.
Learning Development and English as an Additional Language (EAL) support are provided.
Kindergarten and Reception: 8:40–12:00 (half day) or 8:40–15:00 (full day). Years 1–6: 8:40–15:20. Year 7–8: 8:30–15:20. Pre-school supervision: 8:00–8:40. After School Activities: 15:30–17:30 (until 16:30 on Fridays).
Public bus service 611 and 613 stop very near the school; these buses connect with the U-Bahn at Stadthalle or Rheinallee and Bad Godesberg railway station.
Independent Bonn International School teaches British Curriculum, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary) for students aged 3 to 13.
Key Stage One curriculum is based on the English National Curriculum and is developed by IBIS teachers to reflect Bonn's local culture and the school's diverse international community. IBIS is a private, state-approved Ersatzschule for primary education, serving children aged 3 to 12, with English and German language learning integrated into the program.
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities and enrichment opportunities, and actively celebrates students' talents and interests; clubs cover music, art, crafts, sport, languages, scouting and first aid, among others.
The wellbeing program prioritises students' health and social-emotional development. The school cultivates friendships and respectful relationships among students and their families. There is an open ear and a safe space to express themselves. The environment supports social belonging, security and confidence in each child. The school's values include friendship and curiosity, guiding daily life and interaction. The wellbeing program is recognised for its proactive approach to mental health, contributing to a supportive community.
Learning resources are provided by the school at no extra cost. There is a commitment to an individualised approach to learning. Classes are small, with a maximum of 22 students per class, enabling personalised attention. The school provides language support and caters to diverse learner needs, including English as an Additional Language (EAL). German language instruction starts from Year 1 and follows the North Rhine-Westphalian curriculum to support transitions.
All class teachers are either native English speakers or native standard English speakers. Most of school life is conducted in English, with other languages taught in designated lessons. English as an Additional Language (EAL) is an integral part of school life for students who don't speak English and provides a safe, encouraging route to full participation. The school welcomes learners from many backgrounds and provides ample support to help them reach the required academic and social standards. Parents are not required to speak English, and staff are available to help with communication.
The wellbeing program prioritises student health and social-emotional development. It was the first school in Germany to receive the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools Bronze Award. In COBIS inspections, the school was named a Beacon School for its proactive approach to wellbeing. The wellbeing programme supports friendships, safe spaces to express themselves and the health of the whole child. The focus is on helping children become healthy, confident and resilient adults.
The Independent Bonn International School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The appointment of new colleagues is subject to safeguarding checks and verification of identity and qualifications. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and national/international disclosure and barring services. The school is an Equal Opportunities employer.
Admission is administered by the Headteacher and follows Board-approved regulations. The school is inclusive and welcomes children from all backgrounds, irrespective of nationality, religion or ability. All applications are treated fairly and sensitively; if the school cannot meet a child's needs or lacks capacity, a place may not be offered. The school may have a limit on the number of places. After initial contact, parents receive information about the school and complete registration, medical, address list, Schulverein and Förderverein forms; if appropriate, the child may spend a day in the classroom. The Headteacher's decision is final on admissions. Children may enter the school at any time of the year, subject to places being available. There is a six-month trial period for both sides. Kindergarten classes are limited to 10 children per adult, while other classes are limited to a maximum of 22 pupils; additional helpers may be employed to assist class teachers at the discretion of the Governing Body.