Hermann-Ehlers-Gymnasium

From a simple Realschule to a renowned Gymnasium, the Hermann-Ehlers-Gymnasium has witnessed over a century of Berlin’s history. The Hermann-Ehlers-Gymnasium stands before you, a testament to the enduring power of education and remembrance. Established in 1896 as the Realschule Steglitz, it originally resided on Florastraße. The burgeoning student population soon necessitated a larger space. In 1905, the school moved to its current location on Elisenstraße. This impressive building, with its eight science labs, two music halls, and various workshops, has nurtured generations of young minds. The Hermann-Ehlers-Gymnasium’s namesake, Hermann Ehlers, was a student here, graduating in 1922. He later became President of the German Bundestag. The school was renamed in his honor in 1954, a month after his passing, cementing its place in Berlin’s historical landscape. During World War II, the school endured significant damage during an air raid in 1943. The school was subsequently evacuated, only to reopen its doors in July 1945. The school’s resilience reflects the spirit of Berlin itself. The Hermann-Ehlers-Gymnasium prides itself on its diverse language program. Students begin with English and then choose between French or Spanish. They can even pick up a third language like Italian, Russian, or Latin. This multilingual focus prepares students for a globalized world. Beyond academics, the Hermann-Ehlers-Gymnasium is a vibrant hub of extracurricular activities. Annual music evenings and theatrical productions showcase the students’ talents. From its humble beginnings as a Realschule to its current status as a Gymnasium, the Hermann-Ehlers-Gymnasium continues to shape young minds. It stands as a symbol of perseverance, a tribute to its namesake, and a vital part of Berlin’s educational fabric.