Best schools in Dusseldorf
Education in Dusseldorf
Surprising fact: Dusseldorf is in the top 10 rankings of highest standard of living cities in the world, taking into account criteria such as transport, crime rates, housing and (for us, most importantly) education. The small size of the city is an additional perk and expats find that they can live close to the centre (and schools) without breaking the bank.
It is possible to plant yourself and your family on either side of the river which is, literally and visually, at the heart of the city - but it is not the only watery attraction as, right bang in the centre, is also the large and picturesque Hofgarten, awash with lakes, swans and beautifully kept, child-friendly, green spaces. Transport is swift and ubiquitous (bus, metro and tram) so whichever side of the river you choose to live on, getting to work or your child to school is a doddle, compared to most modern cities.
International schools aside, Dusseldorf boasts excellent state schools – in fact, the vast majority of Germans send their children to these state schools because the educational standard is high and they’re free. Schooling starts at 6 and covers elementary, middle and high school.
Choosing a school in Dusseldorf
One of the main benefits of international schools in Dusseldorf is that they are so accessible – and where public transport is slower, the school will usually offer a bus service.
Curricula varies between the international schools, and it’s worth noting that Dusseldorf is home to one of the rare international schools in Germany to offer the International Baccalaureate Careers Programme as an alternative to the IB Diploma.
As for the state school options, a possible disadvantage for expats (apart from language) is that students are formally tracked onto separate educational paths much earlier than in the UK, US or Canada. The system also presents a practical problem for expat families with two parents at the coal-face as they are usually only open in the mornings. Also, as they don’t operate all day, they tend not to offer much, if anything, by way of extracurricular (sport, in particular).
Before and after-school care for primary school children is often provided by on-site school clubs (Schulhort or Kita for kindergarten children) but beware they can stop at 4pm and always close by 6pm. If you do choose to go down this route, you will have to be extremely organised and that starts with turning up at the local registry office, clutching the school application form, the child’s birth certificate, passport, proof of residency and a medical certificate.
