Concept/Mission Statement

Famililar, warm, managable und international

In the middle of the International District of The Hague, we welcome all pupils. Our school is one of the oldest German schools abroad in the world. We can proudly look back on a history of more than 150 years, during which we have continuously developed in line with the changing needs of pupils. Our commitment to excellence in education always remains our first priority and continues to be so today.

With the international location in The Hague, we incorporate different cultures and languages into our everyday life. Well over 30 different nationalities are represented at our school, and thus the pupils experience a multicultural exchange every day that promotes tolerant and respectful behaviour.

Due to our family atmosphere and optimal school size, newcomers quickly feel comfortable and at home. This is the foundation for the joy of learning and paves the way for a successful future.

Manageable School Size, Big Impact:

With a combination of optimal school size, professional learning concepts and a personal school and learning atmosphere, we create an environment that makes learning fun. Because we are convinced that children learn best where they are seen, heard and perceived in their personality.

Individual Requirements:

We offer each pupil the appropriate school career and build on their strengths.

Excellent Education:

Our basis is the German Curriculum. The transition from the German education system to and from DISDH is thus smooth and problem-free. In addition, we are a member of the Association of German Schools Abroad. We offer four languages so that our pupils can cope well in an international environment and are prepared for the demands of the globalised world. From the 8th grade onwards, bilingual teaching takes place in some cases. Our degrees are recognised in Germany and internationally and entitle pupils to study in Germany and at international universities and colleges.

Mission Statement

Preamble

Our school thrives on a sense of belonging and active participation. We take responsibility for providing forward-thinking education with an international perspective and pursue the vision of an interculturally oriented German school for the 21st century, rooted in over 150 years of tradition.

All under one roof – from kindergarten to Abitur

The manageable size of our school allows for close collaboration across the boundaries of kindergarten, primary, and secondary education, fostering a network of meaningful connections. This family-like atmosphere creates trust and emotional security, enabling personal growth.

Our goal is for every student and staff member to feel like a vital part of our community and to experience genuine appreciation.

International and Open-Minded

For us, intercultural education begins with authentic engagement with the host country’s culture. We celebrate both German and local traditions, giving children the opportunity from an early age to interact with individuals of diverse nationalities. Bilingual history lessons and initiatives such as “Model United Nations” nurture an awareness of global interconnectedness.

In doing so, we prepare our students to act as engaged global citizens in a pluralistic world.

As diverse as life in and around the sea

Inspired by the diversity of the sea, we cultivate a culture of tolerance at our school. We place great emphasis on open communication and respectful listening—whether in tutor groups, student representation, or among faculty. We believe that diverse experiences and perspectives create opportunities for growth.

Our educators provide individualized attention to each child, fostering their unique talents and supporting their personal and academic development.

The sea also serves as a reminder of our responsibility toward the environment and future generations. We strive to honor this through education on sustainability.

Excellence and Relevance – learning with head, heart, and hands

Our educational philosophy integrates academic skills with social and emotional competencies such as curiosity, teamwork, and self-management. Hands-on learning, in the truest sense of the word, is especially important to us—students are encouraged to experiment and experience.

Equipped with state-of-the-art digital tools, our school promotes a thoughtful approach to the use of smart devices both in and out of the classroom. As a “German School Abroad of Excellence,” we are committed to continuous development and adhering to the highest educational standards.

In this stimulating environment, we support our students in achieving their individual goals and growing into responsible members of society.

Reliably connected within the German system

As an integral part of the global network of German Schools Abroad, DISDH ensures German education in the Netherlands, offering internationally recognized qualifications. Our close collaboration with other German institutions in the region enriches school life, for example, through events like the German Dutch Literature Competition.

For newly relocating families, we provide seamless continuity in their children’s education while fostering global mobility alongside a strong local connection.