GSIS celebrates past success while looking to the future
- The 55th anniversary of German Swiss International School (GSIS) has been marked by a series of notable events during the 2024/25 academic year, but an undoubted highlight was the Spring Concert in early March which took place at West Kowloon’s Xiqu Centre.
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“We wanted to use this wonderful venue to celebrate the incredible variety of fantastic talent among our students who perform in choirs, orchestras or as individual artists,” says GSIS principal Alexandra Freigang-Krause. “In doing so, we were able to reflect on our historical roots, while also confirming our commitment and close ties to Hong Kong and the region.”
The previous few months have featured a time travel musical bringing to life scenes from the school’s early years; an exhibition of student artworks at the German Consulate, which will be periodically updated with new pieces from students; a Christmas concert at St John’s Cathedral; and a seasonal bazaar on the school’s Peak campus in late November.
GSIS was founded on the principle of providing a well-rounded education where a high standard of academic instruction in a caring environment would allow students to grow as individuals and have a strong foundation when it came to choosing future courses and careers.
For children with no prior knowledge of German, there are three entry points with specialised programmes - the Bilingual Kindergarten, CLIPPY Programme and Fast-Track Programme - open to students of any nationality - to help them achieve fluency quickly.
Overall, the German curriculum is known for its focus on mathematics, natural sciences, and developing independent learning skills. Plenty of scope is also given for involvement in music, arts and sport.
“Naturally, there is a strong cultural immersion,” Freigang-Krause says. “Parents recognise the advantages of multilingualism, and our students’ results regularly rank among the top three of the 136 German Schools Abroad.”
The English International Stream also has a number of distinct characteristics and strengths centred on delivering an exceptional personalised education for every student.
This is done in a fast-paced learning environment which motivates and challenges students to discover their hidden potential and teaches the tools and strategies necessary for success.
“The goal is to foster intellectual curiosity, self-motivation, courage, and a true passion for learning in all students,” Freigang-Krause says. “But we also look to instil a sense of joy and fulfilment by nurturing individual interests across a diverse range of subjects and co-curricular activities that now include community service and entrepreneurship.”
The school has also introduced a new Infrastructure Debenture in response to market demand. With a limited number of places available for each year group, many parents and students face a wait for the opportunity to secure admission. As an all-through school, GSIS allows students to complete their education from Kindergarten through Secondary school, resulting in relatively low student turnover. The new debenture provides an entry pathway for students who meet the school’s admission requirement, granting them priority for admission. As a non-profit organisation, GSIS aims to offer greater flexibility for access and utilise the collected funds to accelerate campus redevelopment.
“We want to respect our traditions and build the school of the future,” says Freigang-Krause, who assumed her current role in early 2024. “I have yet to meet an alumnus who doesn’t reflect on their time at GSIS with pride, joy and enthusiasm. Our students forge friendships that last a lifetime and the school, as a reliable partner, provides support and guidance every step of the way.”