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The Secondary School

Mission StatementCosmopolitan. Caring. Committed.The International School Villa Amalienhof is a multicultural learning community that provides a qualityeducation for young learners.We encourage our students to be reflective and critical thinkers, to be internationally-minded, life-longlearners in a changing world.Our dedicated team of teachers foster a shared sense of responsibility, community, and respect, whilehelping students realise their strengths and develop their individual abilities to be the best they can be.The Secondary School: Years 7 - 13Welcome to the International School Villa AmalienhofThis handbook is designed to facilitate a smooth introduction to the Secondary School at InternationalSchool Villa Amalienhof.As an international school we are in a privileged position; we embrace a wide range of cultures andnationalities in one of the world’s fastest growing capital cities. At International School Villa Amalienhof,we aim to foster understanding, tolerance and mutual respect. We strive to support our pupils indeveloping their abilities and help them to achieve their goals.The information in this booklet should answer your questions about our ethos, values, curriculum andorganisation. Should you have any concerns or queries, please do not hesitate to contact us.We look forward to meeting you and your family in person.With kind regards,Mrs. Barbara GreenhamHead of SchoolMs Geniene MitchellSecondary Coordinator1

IndexMission Statement .......................................................................................................................................................... 1The Secondary School: Years 7 - 13 ................................................................................................................................ 1Index ............................................................................................................................................................................... 2Introduction .................................................................................................................................................................... 3Aims ................................................................................................................................................................................ 3The Secondary School Day .............................................................................................................................................. 4Curriculum ...................................................................................................................................................................... 5Administrative Details ..................................................................................................................................................... 6Admission ............................................................................................................................................................... 6Admission Process .................................................................................................................................................. 6Assembly................................................................................................................................................................. 6Assessment ............................................................................................................................................................. 6Attendance ............................................................................................................................................................. 6Awards .................................................................................................................................................................... 7Book and Stationary Fee ......................................................................................................................................... 7Bus Service .............................................................................................................................................................. 7Careers .................................................................................................................................................................... 7Communication between Home and School .......................................................................................................... 7Discipline/Behaviour .............................................................................................................................................. 8Educational Visits.................................................................................................................................................... 8External Examinations ............................................................................................................................................ 8Extra Curricular Activities/Guided Study ................................................................................................................ 8Food and Drink in the School.................................................................................................................................. 8House System ......................................................................................................................................................... 9Homework .............................................................................................................................................................. 9Library Facilities ...................................................................................................................................................... 9Lost Property .......................................................................................................................................................... 9Mobile Phones and other Electronic Equipment .................................................................................................... 9Parents’ Evening ................................................................................................................................................... 10Parents’ Welcome Event ...................................................................................................................................... 10Photographs ......................................................................................................................................................... 10Photography Permission....................................................................................................................................... 10Physical Education ................................................................................................................................................ 10Pupil Identity Ccards ............................................................................................................................................. 10Safety and Security ............................................................................................................................................... 10School Regulations and Behaviour Policy ............................................................................................................. 10School Reports ...................................................................................................................................................... 11Uniform ................................................................................................................................................................ 11University Entrance .............................................................................................................................................. 112

IntroductionThe school is located in a quiet suburb of Berlin, on the historic grounds of Villa Amalienhof. Thebuildings are surrounded by 60,000 square metres of parkland and comprise woodland and grasslandareas. There are several outdoor play areas including an area specially designated for younger children.Our pupils are children of embassy staff members, employees of international companies as well as localcitizens who recognise the importance of the English language, the value of the English educationsystem and of bilingualism.The curriculum in the purely English year groups is based on the English model and has been adapted tomeet the needs of the international community. The English National Curriculum is one of the mostrespected learning frameworks worldwide. At age 16 the pupils sit their International / GeneralCertificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE/GCSE) exams. Both qualifications are internationallyrecognised. The following two years they sit their Advanced Subsidiary Level (AS) and Advanced Level(A2) examinations. These qualifications lead to university entrance, and are recognised worldwide.The bilingual year groups follow the Berlin State Curriculum (Berliner Rahmenlehrplan) and integrate theEnglish National Curriculum. The Pupils of these year groups are going to be sitting the German MSA forthe first time in 2016. Those pupils will go on to being the first class to graduate with the bilingual Abiturin 2019.Our teaching staff is committed to the development and support of every individual pupil.AimsThe International School Villa Amalienhof aims to:Provide a broad, balanced and relevant education which meets individual needsProvide a well-established, proven framework for learningPromote pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural developmentPrepare pupils for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of lifeEstablish a happy, secure, challenging and mutually respectful learning environment in whichchildren thriveEncourage a positive, calm and industrious atmosphere where expectations are high and whereindividual effort and progress are recognised and rewardedCreate an equality of opportunity for pupils, encouraging independent thinking, high self-esteem,tolerance and consideration for others both in the classroom and in the playgroundDevelop open communication and partnership with parentsCreate an open consultative environment in which all staff feels a sense of ownership andpartnership in the learning processDevelop in the children an awareness, understanding and appreciation of the world in which weliveFoster team spirit and mutual cooperationDevelop a sense of right and wrong and the learning of good manners and appropriate behaviourat all timesFoster in the children a sense of personal responsibility, particularly with regard to homeworkand personal assignments3

The Secondary School Day8.30 – 8.45 Registration / Form Time / Assembly8.45 - 9.30 Period 19.30 - 10.15 Period 210.15 - 11.00 Period 311.00 - 11.30 Break11.30 - 12.15 Period 412.15 - 13.00 Period 513.00 - 14.00 Lunch14.00- 14.45 Period 614.45 - 15.30 Period 715.30 - 15.45 Registration and Dismissal15.45 – 16.30 SAS / Extra Curricular Activities15.45 - 16.00FridaysRegistrationSchool Bus leaves at 16.004

CurriculumThe table below gives an overview of the subject selection for IGCSE and A-Level.IGCSE (Years 10 and 11) GCE Advanced Level (Years 12 and 13)ArtBusiness StudiesEnglishFrenchGeographyGermanHistoryMathematicsSciences combinedBiologyChemistryPhysicsArtBiologyBusiness StudiesChemistryEnglishFrenchGeographyGermanHistoryMathematicsPhysicsPsychologyWRLFurther subjects can be offered on demandIGCSE Compulsory Subjects: English divided into Literature and Language or ESL, Science, Mathematics,PE, German, Work Related Learning and at least one of the Humanities (Business Studies, Geography orHistory). Pupils study three optional subjects in addition to the compulsory subjects listed above.Note:Year 9 and 11 pupils chose their options after speaking with the Secondary and Sixth Form Coordinators.In our bilingual year groups some lessons, including mathematics are taught in German. In order enablepupils to also have access to A-Level mathematics, English mathematics is taught during guided learning.In Secondary School, emphasis is put on media education and scienceCompetencies in IT are developed in all lessonsEnglish and German are taught in native and non-native groupsDepending on year groups, physical education, social studies and ethics are taught, but notexaminedFurther information such as individual class timetables are available in the School Office.5

Administrative DetailsFor ease of reference the information provided has been arranged in alphabetical order.AdmissionThe school caters for children from 2 years old through to graduation.Based on the understanding that children feel more at home with those the same age and socialmaturity, the school has a policy of placing children in year groups according to their date of birth.However, there may be exceptions to this rule if it is deemed to be in the child’s best interest. Alllessons are differentiated in order that children receive work at the appropriate level. The staff will alsoprovide additional help and support should this prove necessary.ISVA does admit pupils with weaker primary language skills, under the conditions that parents arewilling to engage the children in additional language support, should this be recommended by theschool.In the bilingual year groups the Berlin State age regulations apply for year group placement andtransfer. The statutory rules apply regarding school enrolment age.Our lessons are differentiated, so that pupils are supported on an individually appropriate level. Ourteachers make an effort to provide additional support if necessary.Admission ProcessAll children applying to ISVA pass through the admissions process, which includes three trial days.During the trial days, children follow the regular school day as well as undergo testing in the accordinglanguages and mathematics.Detailed information regarding the admissions process (incl. trial days) can be provided by the SchoolOffice.AssemblyThe Secondary School assembly takes place on Mondays and Thursdays at 8.40. This is an opportunity forthe school community to come together in order to celebrate its successes and to address issues ofcommon concern. Classes regularly give presentations about current issues. From time to time referenceto religious holidays will be made. This happens in a non-engaging way with consideration for themulticultural background of our pupils.AssessmentChildren's progress and achievement are under continual assessment by class teachers. Each topic orunit of work is assessed to ensure that children are ready to move on to the next level. The assessmentin the purely English year groups is made in the light of the school’s commitment to the English NationalCurriculum; the assessment in the bilingual year groups is made in accordance to the Berlin stateregulations.AttendanceRegistration takes place at the beginning and end of each day. Pupils are expected to attend schoolevery day.6

AwardsAwards are earned not only through academic, creative and sporting achievements, but also throughcourtesy, consideration and the demonstration of good manners – in other words, through being anexemplary citizen of the school community.The purpose of awards is to recognise and celebrate achievement and contribution. They are equallyintended to foster pride in effective learning and a disciplined work ethic.Book and Stationary FeeAt the beginning of each school year, the annual fee for books and stationary materials is due. Pupilswill receive exercise books as well as textbooks for use. The books are signed upon receipt and need tobe returned at the end of the school year.Bus ServiceA bus service to and from the school is provided by a separate company. The contract partner is the busservice provider. Further information incl. fees is available in the School Office.The bus picks up the pupils at a prearranged time in front of their house. The pupils then travel tothe school and should arrive in time for the start of the day.At the end of the school day, the pupils depart from school as soon as possible at 16.30 (16.00 onFridays) and are dropped off at their door.If a pupil should not be picked up because of illness, parents should inform the bus company as soonas possible.If for any reason the arrangements should be changed, (i.e. the child should no longer travel withthe bus) the school bus company should be notified in writing.The bus company should be notified at least 48 hours in advance of any changes to the child'snormal routing. This must be done in writing. Parents should ensure that they have receivedconfirmation before the change takes place.CareersAs part of the PSE programme, the school aims to provide comprehensive careers advice. This includestalks from visiting professionals and discussions with tutors during tutor time. The school would alsowelcome contributions from parents in their various areas of expertise.Communication between Home and SchoolWe see communication between school and home as a vital. The first point of contact is always the tutor.The Secondary School Co-ordinator and the Head of School are available for further information andsupport if necessary.The school aims to keep the parents informed of developments and current events.7

Discipline/BehaviourThe aim of the school is to encourage an atmosphere of tolerance, understanding and self-discipline.Children are expected to behave in a manner that is both sensible and kind at all times.In the first instance of inappropriate behaviour, the school prefers to talk issues through with the pupilinvolved to find a solution to problems rather than to punish. Where offences are repeated or severe,sanctions will be applied. Parental support with regard to issues of discipline is much appreciated.Experience has shown a united front is the most effective way forward.The Code of Conduct is signed by parents prior to admission. A copy of the Code of Conduct can beviewed in the School Office.Educational VisitsThe classes undertake visits to museums, exhibitions and other educational locations throughout theschool year. Parents will receive information about each of these visits and be advised what specialprovisions need to be made. Costs for visits also include entrance fee to the venue.Children are generally transported in school buses or the public transport.Your child will need written permission every time he/she takes part in a trip.External ExaminationsThe school uses two examination boards - Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) and Edexcel. Theannual examination period is between May and June. The Examinations Officer carries out theadministration of external exams. The full cost of these exams is payable in addition to the normal schoolfees.Extra Curricular Activities/Guided StudyAfternoon registration takes place between 15.45 and 16.00 after which the school runs a programmeof guided study from 16.00 until 16.30, including Homework, English as a Second Language and Germanas a Second Language support classes. A range of Extra Curricular Activities (ECAs) are available at theend of the school day. There may be a fee for after-school activities run by external providers. Pupils areinformed about the extracurricular activities throughout the year. Some may run for a set period e.g.rehearsals for a show or play, while others may run throughout the year e.g. sport.Guided study is mandatory for all bilingual year groups.Food and Drink in the SchoolSnacksSandwiches and snacks may be bought at the cafeteria.LunchtimeAt lunchtime both school meals and packed lunches are eaten under supervision in the school cafeteria.School mealsThere is a hot lunch available daily. The contract for hot lunches and information about the lunchprogramme are available from the School Office. There is a selection of vegetarian or non vegetarianmeals.8

House SystemThe school operates a House system whereby the children are allocated to one of three Houses: Ruby,Sapphire and Emerald.The children can earn points for these houses. These contribute to an ongoing House competition.Points are awarded not only for educational, sporting success and in House competitions but for allaspects of school life. The aim is to encourage good practice throughout the school.All of these awards ultimately contribute to our House system. At the end of the school year the HouseCup is awarded to the winning House of the school.HomeworkParents can support the school by:Displaying a positive attitude to homework and valuing its importance while at the same timerecognising that it is the child’s responsibility to complete the workProviding a quiet and suitable place for their child to do his or her homeworkRegularly checking homework diaries and signing to confirm that all tasks have been completedThe amount of homework will increase as the pupil progresses through the schoolLibrary FacilitiesThe library offers a range of loan materials which cover popular novels and a range of non-fiction books.Literature as well as textbooks are available in both English and German languages.The children are able to take out up to 3 books at a time. Pupils are responsible for returning the bookson time and in good condition.We are always thankful for donations of any kind.Lost PropertyLost property is sent to the School Office. Please enquire at the office for any missing items.It is essential that ALL items of school uniform are marked in waterproof ink with your child's name andyear group.Mobile Phones and other Electronic EquipmentMobile telephones are very much a part of everyday life, but they must not be allowed to interfere withthe running of the school. We must therefore insist on the following rules to be followed:Year groupsTime per week per Subject7 - 9 30 - 60 minutes10 - 11 60 - 120 minutes12 - 13 minimum 5 hours, incl. Guided StudyMobile telephones must be handed in to the class teacher / School Office each day. They will be keptin the school office and returned at the end of the dayShould pupils need to telephone a parent during school time they may use the telephone located inthe School Office in the presence of a member of staffIf a parent should find it necessary to contact his/her child during school time he/she should call theSchool Office in order that the message may be passed on9

Parents’ EveningAt the end of each of the three terms, parents will be given the opportunity to consult privately withtheir child’s subject teachers and class tutor in order to discuss academic progress and social welfare.Parents’ Welcome EventOnce a year at the beginning of the autumn term, parents are invited to an orientation evening, our socalled ‘Welcome Event’.The evening is intended to provide information about the general organisation of the school and tointroduce the parents to the teachers. It gives the parents a chance to meet one another as well asother members of the school community.PhotographsThe school photographer visits the school once a year.Photography PermissionParents will be asked to give written consent for their child to be photographed and have television orvideo coverage made during school activities with the understanding that said photographs or videosmight be published and distributed as part of school material and advertisement.Physical EducationSport is compulsory for all year groups up to Year 11.Plimsolls or trainers are suitable for indoor PE. Training shoes are required for outdoor lessons andshould be used exclusively for this purpose. A PE-Kit should be kept in a drawstring bag that can be hungon a coat peg. PE will be held outdoors as often as possible, weather permitting.PE takes place in the air hall during winter, which is assembled for this purpose every autumn on ISVAgrounds and disassembled every spring.Pupil Identity CardsPupil identity cards are available from the School Office on production of a passport type photograph.Safety and SecurityWe take the safety of our pupils seriously.International School Villa Amalienhof is a closed campus. Pupils are to stay on campus during theschool day unless they have been given permission to leave by the Head of School.Please watch your speed when driving near the school premises. We thank you for your co-operation inkeeping our school a safe place for your children.The school gates are kept closed during school hours.School Regulations and Behaviour PolicyThe ISVA School Regulations and Behaviour Policy are available in the School Office.10

School ReportsFor the purely English year groups a written report is sent home each term. In the autumn and springterms, these are interim reports, at the end of the summer term a full written report is issued.This does not apply to exam year groups (Years 11 - 13) who receive an interim report at the end of theautumn term and a final report at the end of the spring term. Pupils in Years 11 - 13 receive their examcertificates in August.For pupils of the bilingual year groups, two half year reports are issued in February and in July.We view education as a threefold partnership between teacher, child and parents. Please feel free tocontact class teachers and arrange a meeting throughout the school year to discuss any questions,concerns or difficulties. Please do this sooner rather than later in order that we can address any issues assoon as possible. Please arrange appointments directly with the class teacher.UniformThe current uniform regulations apply. These are readily available in the School Office.University EntranceIn the autumn term of Year 13, students wishing to apply to UK Universities are given guidance on thecompletion of the so-called UCAS forms. The school provides prospectuses and information. Additionally,the school has information on entrance to other universities and Institutes of Higher Education inGermany and worldwide. The school will endeavour to assist the students in their search for anappropriate institute of higher learning.International School Villa Amalienhof gGmbH. · Heerstrasse 465 · 13593 Berlin · Germany · Tel.: +49(30) 3643 9820 · Fax: +49(30) 3643 982111