Deutsche Schule London (DSL)
Reviews & Information

We have two children at DSL and believe its an outstanding school.

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We moved our two children from the English system (primary school and secondary/academy) to the DSL - because we wanted the breadth and quality that the International German Abitur gives, plus the opportunities to study either in the UK, Germany or indeed other European countries. The academic standard is high as it is a grammar-school-type (Gymnasium following the well-respected curriculum/standards of Baden-Würtemberg), but there is also an opportunity for a smaller number of pupils who follow a "Realschulabschluss" at year 10. In the German system, teachers have more professional autonomy and space to be creative - there are many fantastically motivated teachers at the school that have made a real difference to our children. We have also greatly appreciated the school psychologist who helped to support our children. Since there is a clearer sense of progression from year to year, it is easiest if children join the school in the earlier years or from the beginning. Coming mid-way through from the English system can be challenge as it may require filling gaps, particularly in languages and maths. The school has a strong track-record in helping children access Russell-Group Universities. The school itself has state of the art and recently upgraded facilities, including a IT-room and learning-centre with new computers, upgraded science facilities and a state-of-the art gym. It is set in large beautiful grounds that give students lots of outdoor space and the school is in a beautiful surroundings of Ham, close to the river. The school is not a typical expat school, but very London/international. While most families will have at least one parent that is German-speaking (from Germany, Austria or Switzerland), there is also a growing proportion of children from parents who just wanted a great German-style education. Most children will talk English to each other outside the class-room and the School places a lot of emphasis on promoting bi-lingualism. The school has some turn-over of children each year as parents move professionally, but the majority of parents are permanently in London (as are most of the teachers). Students are well-behaved and focused on learning without there being a uniform policy and pointless rules - but there will be rigorous follow-up if your child fails to do their homework. Finally, the school is extremely good value for money in terms of the benefits of a private school education since the German state is effectively subsidising a significant part of the running costs and salaries.

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