Fancy a school with its own philosophy? That is the Friedrich-Schiller-Gymnasium in Leipzig. It stands as a beacon of humanistic education. The Friedrich-Schiller-Gymnasium is more than just a school. It embodies an ideal. It is an ideal of being different, thinking critically, and acting humanely.
Since 1992, the Friedrich-Schiller-Gymnasium has occupied a special place in Leipzig’s educational landscape. The building itself has a longer history. Built between 1903 and 1905, locals call it the Turmschule because of its distinctive tower. You can spot the Friedrich-Schiller-Gymnasium from afar. Before becoming the Friedrich-Schiller-Gymnasium, the building housed various schools. These include the 11th Buergerschule, the 36th Volksschule and the 36th Mittelschule. Each era left its mark on the building.
The Friedrich-Schiller-Gymnasium’s philosophy emphasizes non-violence and community. Students, teachers, and parents work together. They protect both inner and outer spaces of freedom. The motto “anders.denkend.humanistisch.” reflects a commitment to openness. It signifies responsibility and personal development. The school values self-knowledge, diversity, and interdisciplinary learning. Comprehensive education and personal growth are central to its mission.
What sets the Friedrich-Schiller-Gymnasium apart? Its Kulturraum. Unlike other schools, almost all extracurricular activities happen here. Every Wednesday, students in grades 5-8 participate in cultural courses. These courses cover music, drama, design, communication, discovery, and organization. Students choose from over 30 courses.
The Friedrich-Schiller-Gymnasium also boasts the Schillerakademie. This regular event series is open to students, parents, teachers, and guests. Speakers from science, politics, culture, and society share their insights. Even students, parents, and teachers themselves take the stage. Notable speakers have included Thomas Boehme, Wikipedia administrator “Sicherlich,” Gregor Gysi, Robert Habeck, and Christian Lindner.
The Friedrich-Schiller-Gymnasium offers a wide range of foreign languages. Students can study English, Latin, French, and Russian. The school also provides different academic profiles. These include science, languages, arts, and social sciences.
Even the school’s disciplinary system is unique. The Friedrich-Schiller-Gymnasium has a student court. This court addresses misconduct. The court consists of students and a teacher. It can recommend actions to the school administration.
The Friedrich-Schiller-Gymnasium actively engages in international partnerships. It maintains close ties with the Menelik High School in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Student and teacher exchanges strengthen this collaboration.
The Friedrich-Schiller-Gymnasium provides numerous opportunities for students. They actively shape school life. They participate in events, competitions, and student companies. These include the Abitur ceremony and choir performances. There are also foreign language competitions and information evenings. Furthermore, the school hosts concert days, reading contests, and nights of the arts. Project days showcase student work. The Schillerfest recognizes outstanding students. The school also offers taster lessons for primary school children. Sports events include high jump championships, sports days, swimming galas, and ski camps. There is also a National Geographic knowledge competition.
The Friedrich-Schiller-Gymnasium is more than bricks and mortar. It is a community. It is a place where students are encouraged to think differently. The Friedrich-Schiller-Gymnasium shapes future generations. It does so by instilling humanistic values.