Current
Info Day on Saturday, March 24
If you are not yet familiar with ISR, you are invited to attend Info Day on Saturday, March 24th, from 13:00-16:00 hrs. For families looking for educational solutions in the Dusseldorf region, there will be presentations at 13:30h and 14:30h in the Large Conference Room. In the meantime, feel free to read what families say about ISR and watch the video below prior to your visit and checkout other info on our Facebook Fan Page.
If you cannot attend, if your needs are more immediate or if you would already like an individual consultation, please call +49 2131 40388-14/-15 for an appointment. Everyone is welcome.
Boys Basketball Scores Victory on Pro-Team Gloria Giants' Court
On Sunday 22 January, ten students from Grades 6 and 7 participated in a competitive basketball match as part of the schools league. After a tough battle and end-to-end action, the ISR students were victorious against Dietrich-Bonhoeffer-Gymnasium 35-28. This match was played at Castello in Düsseldorf, where professional players from the Gloria Giants play their home matches. The experience for our students to not only play in this facility, but to experience success while doing so, was fantastic and hopefully one they will never forget!
The following pupils should be congratulated on their efforts and for being part of a winning side: Max S.(7), Moritz H. (7), Mahmoud S. (6), Justus S. (6), Malik C. (6), Jonas F. (6), Vincent S. (6), Kelvin S. (6), Alexander T. (6) and Mostafa S. (4).
The next basketball game for our students is on Thursday 2nd February against Konrad-Heresbach-Gymnasium. Congratulations!
3rd Year for BEST IN GERMANY on IGCSE Exams!
ISR is proud to announce that two students, Johanna K. and Henri S., received the top score in all of Germany in their International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) exams in Foreign Language Spanish and English as a Second Language respectively. Both students, now in Grade 11, took the exams in June 2011.
Since 2008, ISR has been doing IGCSE exams. And, this is the THIRD time that ISR received the top scores in Germany! Congratulations to the students and their teachers. The exams are issued by the University of Cambridge.
ISR also congratulates its sister school, ISF Internationale Schule Frankfurt-Rhein-Main, who is celebrating a tie for the top score in the world in First Language German. In addition, ISF received the highest marks in Germany in Foreign Language German, Mathematics, First Language Korean, Physics, and Economics.
ISR and ISF are the only two SABIS® schools in Germany and have, for two years in a row now, made quite a nice sweep of top scores in their host country.
Young scientists at work
Grade 12 IB Physics, Biology and Chemistry students presented their IB Group 4 Projects to ISR teachers and students in our Biology Lab. The IB Group 4 project is a collaborative activity in which our students from the three sciences worked together on a scientific topic, allowing for concepts and perceptions from across the disciplines to be shared. With guidance from Mr. O’Brien, (IB Physics and Group 4 Project Leader), Ms. Rettinger (Chemistry and IB Biology), and Ms. Baker (IB Biology and Head of Science), our three groups of student physicists, chemists and biologists presented their findings in their three different investigations:
- The Science of Sound, presented by Laura M.,Lara P., and Christiane W.
- Behind the Scene of Sweating, presented by Doga B., Alexandra S., Laura R. and Henry P.
- Enzyme Reactions with Salivary Amalyse, presented by Camilla K., Annika K. and Lucas C.
We learned, for example, that the design of the human ear is significantly different from a bat’s ear with the cochlea located closer to the outer ear, which allows the bat to hear high frequency sounds. The second group defined two types of sweat glands in the body and showed the results of experiments with salt solution evaporation rates. The third team taught us that there is an enzyme for every nutrient we ingest. In particular, they analyzed how salivary amalyse breaks down starch.
The important IB Aim #7 of these Group 4 Projects at ISR is to “develop and apply the students’ information and communication technology skills in the study of science”. Students are required to use electronic communication in the planning as well as in the experimental, presentation and evaluation stages of the project which is excellent preparation for university work in all fields.
Mr. O’Brien summarized the developments in the collaboration between the sciences in the last century. In
the 1900´s, Ernest Rutherford rated Physics as the most revealing of all sciences and stated, “All Science is either Physics or stamp-collecting!” Now there is a significant overlap between the sciences with collaboration on projects such as space research and environmental science. Mr. O’Brien sees the next century as the century of the biochemists who will work together to deal with the problems of food shortages. Mr. O’Brien does know, though, that there is always a role for the physicist!
Thank you to the IB Year 12 students and to the IB teachers, Mr. O’Brien, Ms. Rettinger and Ms. Baker for
an interesting morning in the Biology Lab!
International Day was here!
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ISR celebrated International Day on Saturday 12th November and welcomed ca. 1000 visitors, including ISR families and friends. This year's Focus Countries were (in order of grade): Switzerland, Macedonia, Thailand, Venezuela, Morocco, Iran. These countries are representative of some of ISR's student body.
Activities included games, quizzes, performances, concerts, a tombola, and much more. A highlight of this annual school festival is Taste of the World where parents take over the cafeteria and cook traditional cuisine from the selected countries.
One never knows where to stop with the "thanks" because it is a true, harmonious collaboration of parents, teachers, students, and administration! But, a special thank you to Mrs. Hörmann for organizing not only the stage talent but also 1) engaging our Iranian families to run the food stand and to help our Parent Network Grade 5 and 6 reps with the focus country room, and 2) for sewing the costumes for the children's play!
Another special thank you goes to Mr. van Breukelen for taking over what could have been the daunting task of organizing Taste of the World--he made it look as easy as PIE! Also to Student Life Coordinator Mr. Michaud who pulls more and more dedication and commitment out of the Grade 7 and above students to share their contributions. Lastly, to our Hausmeister/Building Superintendent, Mr. Esser, who joyfully put everything in place Friday night and Saturday.
That said, the day would not be possible without the ENTIRE ISR community. (Curious about the picture? Go to FACEBOOK.)
A very scary Halloween party
On Friday, 21st November, the SLO® Event Department organized their first event for the school year 2011-12 which was a Halloween Party, offered to all Grade 1 to 6 students.
It was a great success! There was free food and refreshments for everyone provided by the Parent Network. THANK YOU!
There was also funky music, a Pumpkin Carving Competition, coloring images, crosswords and mazes. We want to thank all those who came and helped.
First school Spirit Day
The first ISR School Spirit Day of 2011-12 took place on 30 September 2011! It was a great success. A raffle took place with those who participated and over 185 tickets were given out. Great participation from the students and staff. Next School Spirit Day: Halloween!
Music for Cambodia - Palm Tree Orphanage
Last weekend, Heiko Z. and Gesine H. (Grade 11) played keyboard and violin at the Neusser Hansefest in an effort to raise funds for the Cambodia Palm Tree Orphanage Project.
In total they collected 103,73 €! Very good for a first fundraiser. They want to thank all students, parents and teachers who came around to support them. This is one of many other fundraisers they are planning to do this year.
We will see them again at International Day on Saturday, 12 November where they will, we are sure, bring enjoyment to all. Way to go!
Outstanding results on the Cambridge IGCSE exams
In June 2011, ISR Secondary School students did the International General Certificates of Secondary Education exams (IGCSEs) in 10 different subjects. The IGCSE was developed by the University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE).
From the 62 tests taken, 98% received a passing grade of C ("befriedigend") or higher. Only A+/A ("sehr gut+/sehr gut") scores were given in English 1st Language, Foreign Language French, Foreign Language German. And, 100% of exams taken in English 2nd Language, Foreign Language Spanish, German 1st Language, History, Mathematics (without Coursework), Music received a passing grade.
ISR applauds its dedicated teachers, hard-working students as well as the SABIS® curriculum for being a solid training ground for ISR Secondary School students.
SLO® Training Weekend
INSPIRING! This is the word that comes to mind when we look back at the first “ISR SLO® Leadership Camp” which took place 03-04 September in Nettersheim (Eifel region).
Since last June, the Deputy Head Prefects from each SLO® department planned and coordinated the event from the beginning to the end including selection and planning of all training sessions. All 33 grade 7-12 students attending this camp learned about communication, leadership, teamwork through icebreaking, bonding and various other activities.
It was truly remarkable to see students taking ownership and becoming responsible leaders! All students were there with a positive attitude, a will to learn new things and to get out of their comfort zone!
You can see more photos here.
ISR students earn impressive IB results
Results from the May 2011 International Baccalaureate examinations were released in the first week of July and reflect impressive performance for ISR students in grades 12 and 13. The exams, which took place in May 2011, came at the end of two years of study in the demanding IB program, which has students studying 6 subjects, taking a Theory of Knowledge course, writing an extended research paper, and completing community service.
The results show that:
♦ Of the 18 ISR students registered for examinations, 16 of them, or 89%, received the full IB diploma. Approximately 78% of students worldwide were successful in earning a full IB diploma in the 2010 examination session.
♦ Of those earning the full diploma, 94%, or 15 out of 16, earned the prestigious IB Bilingual Diploma. On average worldwide, approximately 31% of the diplomas awarded are bilingual diplomas.
♦ Ninety-two (92%) of students who received the full IB diploma qualified for admission to German university. Note: Not all ISR students enrolled in the IB program sought to earn the diploma for admission to German university.
♦ It is roughly considered that a passing score per subject is 4 or higher with a maximum score of 7. With that in mind, ISR IB candidates received 100% passing scores in the following subjects: Biology SL, Chemistry SL, Computer Science, Economics HL & SL, English A1 HL & SL, English A2 HL & SL, French Ab Initio SL, Geography HL & SL, German A1 HL & SL, German A2 SL, History European/Middle Europe HL, History SL, Physics SL, Spanish B HL & SL, Visual Arts HL & SL (SL=Standard Level, HL= High Level).
♦ The average score for the IB at ISR was 30; the global average score for the IB is also 30 as calculated over a 5-year period. Note: The average predicted score for ISR students was 30.
ISR graduates from the class of 2011, all of whom earned a SABIS® High School Diploma signifying successful completion of high school, will use their external exam results to gain admission to top universities in Germany and around the world. The school is working intensively with students who struggled to earn the full IB diploma to identify viable avenues of access to university study.
“We are very pleased with the results from our first cohort of IB students,” stated Ms. Eileen Lyons, ISR School Director. “We have set a high bar of achievement and look forward to raising the bar in the future. Through the SABIS® Educational System and with the ongoing commitment of the students, parents, and the entire ISR faculty and staff, the possibilities are limitless!”
As an international school that implements a non-selective admissions policy, ISR provides students with a solid academic foundation and essential life skills and helps all students achieve their full potential.
Summer school was a big success again this year
We had many great excursions and activities, such as the fun fair in Düsseldorf (Grösste Kirmes am Rhein), the climbing park in Neuss, the Pippi feiert Geburtstag show, Logo Lino, Aquazoo in Düsseldorf and much more.
Many thanks to students, parents who made it possible! Our thanks also goes to all the teachers and staff members who helped to make this an enjoyable summer school.
You can see more photos of Summer School 2011 here.
Information and Calendar Dates for School Year 2011–2012
Important information in preparation for the school year can be downloaded:
- School Calendar 2011-2012 (PDF)
- Sodexo Information 2011-12 please call 0800-649 3368 or continue to watch this space
- UPDATED: Books and Supplies List 2011-2012 (PDF); the document lists everything in both German and English as expatriate families may find it helpful to know what to ask for in the stores
Open House for 2011-12 Enrollments
Thursday, August 25, 2011
14:00 – 16:00 hrs
Open House gives parents and students a chance, if they wish, to drop by and visit the campus at their convenience between 14:00 and 16:00 hrs. They may check their homeroom assignments, meet teachers informally and walk about the school campus.
Upon arrival, parents and students should check the student's name and homeroom on the notice board in the Foyer just inside the main entrance. Please be aware that when forming homeroom sections at the start of each new school year, various criteria are considered; the primary consideration is to create groups that are equally balanced academically based on students' performance in the previous year school year.
Of secondary consideration is the mixture of boys and girls, new and returning students, and language abilities. Social factors are seldom an aspect that is considered when forming sections as there are opportunities throughout the day for friends to meet within and between grade/section levels. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in this matter.
First Day of School
Monday, August 29, 2011
08:20h, Grades 5 to 13
Upon arrival, students in Grades 5 to 8 should wait on the playground for the bell. The homeroom teacher will pick up the class at 08:20h. Grade 9 to 13 students may report directly to their homeroom. This first day will be a full day for everyone – ending at 16:10h with the possibility of staying in the Extended Day program until 18:00h.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
08:15h, Grades 2 to 4
Upon arrival, Grade 2 to 4 students should wait on the playground for their homeroom teacher who will pick up the class when the bell rings at 08:20h. This first day will be a full day for everyone – ending at 15:20h with the possibility of staying in the Extended Day program until 18:00h.
08:45h, Grade 1
The Grade 1 students and their families will start their first day of Primary School at 8:45h in the cafeteria with a brief, traditional German welcome ceremony ending no later than 09:30h.
During this ceremony, Grade 1 students will receive a traditional "Schultüte" from the Grade 2 students. Grade 1 teachers prepare the "Tüte" in advance. This is a large conical bag of sweets and school supplies given to children on their "Erster Schultag" (first day) of school. Families are invited to join their children for this special occasion. The Grade 1 students will have a "normal" school day after the welcome ceremony – ending at 15:20h with the possibility of staying in the Extended Day program until 18:00h.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
08:20h, Kindergarten
Upon arrival, parents can check in at the KG entrance. This first day will be a full day for everyone – ending at 15:20h with the possibility of staying in the Extended Day program until 18:00h.
Back-to-School Night
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
18:00 – 20:00hrs
KG through Grade 13 parents only
This is an opportunity for parents to meet teachers and to gain an insight into the curriculum their child(ren) will study at school next academic year as well as to learn about schedules and class/school procedures.
A to Z university offers for 2010-11 graduates!
Already since October 2010, universities are wanting to snatch up ISR 2010-11 graduates. The first offer came in for a Grade 13 ISR student from the University of Glasgow* in Scotland for Neuroscience.
Then in early November, another Grade 13 ISR student received offers from Bangor University (University of Wales) and from University of Liverpool* to study Psychology.
Since then, the following universities can be added to the list: Arnhem Hogeschool in Nijmegen, NL (Physiotherapy); Bath Spa University (Psychology); Baylor University, Texas (Neuroscience); Bournemouth University (Psychology); Durham University (Physics); Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Venlo NL (Marketing); Glasgow Caledonian University (Psychology); Henrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf (Biology and Chemistry); Imperial College London* (Mathematics); Middlesex University (Marketing and Psychology); Nijmegen Universiteit (Corporate Communications); Northeastern University in Boston (Business Administration); Oklahoma City University (Marketing and Psychology); Pace University in New York with the Trustee Recognition Award of $13,000/year (Business Administration); Queen's University in Belfast* (Mechanical Engineering); Radboud Universiteit, NL (Communications); Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, NL (Psychology); Royal Holloway at University of London (Science Foundation with a Biomedical Sciences option); Siena College in New York with an offer of the Presidential Scholarship (Management); Technische Universiteit Delft, NL (Mechanical Engineering); Tilburg Universiteit, NL (International Management); Universität Bonn (Biology); Universität Duisburg-Essen (Medical Biology); Universität Münster (Biological Services); Universität Wien, Austria (Physics); Universiteit Utrecht, NL (Communications); University of Aberdeen (Psychology); University of Bath (Mathematics); University of Birmingham* (Politics and Sociology); University of Bristol* (Neuroscience); University of Derby (Marketing); University of Edinburgh* (Physics); again University of Glasgow* (Physics, Bioscience/Virology, Psychology); University of Hertfordshire (Marketing); University of Kent (Psychology); University of Lancaster (Marketing); University of Leicester (Politics and Sociology); University of Nottingham* (Mechanical Engineering); University of Sheffield* (Psychology); University of St. Andrews (Neuroscience); University of Sussex (Neuroscience and Psychology); University of Warwick* (Mathematics); Washington College in Maryland including a scholarship (Psychology); York St. John University (Marketing); Zeppelin Universität, Friedrichshafen (Business).
But perhaps where a Grade 12 student, ISR teachers and the SABIS® administration can abound with pride is with the offer from University of Cambridge* as well as a second interview with Princeton University for another Grade 12 student.
All in all 48 universities, 54 offers, 16 students, and 20 diverse fields of study. Of the 48 universities, 19 are in the Times Higher's Top 200 Universities worldwide list of which 5 are in the Top 100 and 2 in the Top 10!!
Universities marked with (*) are members of the Russell Group, known for its excellence in research and outstanding teaching; there are 11 in total.
Congratulations to all!