Nelson Mandela School

The Department of Social Pedagogues focuses on the social-emotional development of students. It is an international, multi‑professional team responsible for counselling, accompanying and supporting pupils and for fostering social skills, communication abilities and creative resources. The department delivers Social Learning, Ganztagsstunden (informal learning lessons), and organises and runs extra‑curricular activities such as School Clubs, Lunch and courses provided by external providers. Its goals are to develop students' communication capabilities, foster empathy, enable constructive exchange of arguments, create a climate of trust and openness in classes and groups, and give every student the opportunity to strengthen self‑esteem, become self‑reliant and take responsibility for their actions. Each class has a dedicated team member who works with teachers to meet daily needs; inquiries are welcome.

Participation and Inclusion at Nelson Mandela School supports students with increased support needs (with integration status). It focuses on social, emotional, behavioural, sensory processing and motor skills development. It uses a student‑centred approach to create individualized plans to empower students to reach their full potential. It works closely with class educators and, where appropriate, the special educational needs teachers to promote inclusion in all aspects of school life. For information about this support or to apply for increased support needs, contact the Department of Social Pedagogues.

The Primary English Department follows the National Curriculum used in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Materials used include Jolly Phonics and the Oxford Reading Tree, as well as Oxford International Literacy. Science, History and Geography in the Nelson Mandela Primary School are taught in English by international colleagues, according to the Berlin State Curriculum.

Mental health is addressed through PEPtalk Prevention. Topics include Addiction Prevention (drugs, alcohol, smoking/vaping, etc.), Bullying, Cyberbullying, and Social Media and Internet Use, as well as Mental Health. The PEPtalk team works closely with teachers and social pedagogues to build on the school's prevention and safeguarding programmes.

PEPtalk Prevention is part of safeguarding efforts at Nelson Mandela School. PEPtalk team members are involved in the Child Protection Policy Development Groups at Primary and Secondary levels. If you are concerned about a student, the lines of communication are: Primary – Class Team; Nathanael Jones (Head of Social Pedagogues); Franziska Talai‑Rad (Social Worker); Secondary – Class Team; Social Pedagogues; Designated Trusted Teacher; Addiction Prevention Coordinator. For inquiries, contact the school through established channels.