Deep beneath the schoolyard of Max-Beckmann-Oberschule lie secrets of a different era. This is not just a place of learning. Max-Beckmann-Oberschule has a rich history. It has witnessed Berlin’s transformation over more than a century.
Let’s journey back to 1907. The Max-Beckmann-Oberschule started as a simple community school in Reinickendorf. Construction began in 1908 on Auguste-Viktoria-Allee. Only eight rooms were ready by autumn 1908. Another eight followed in 1909.
By 1912 the Max-Beckmann-Oberschule needed expansion because it was growing fast. The building grew deeper into the property. The street frontage remained relatively narrow. Reinickendorf became Berlin’s 20th district in 1920. Around 60 modern schools were built. This included the 8th Volksschule. It was a secular school on Auguste-Viktoria-Allee.
The rise of the National Socialists in 1933 ended progressive education. The 8th Volksschule was brought into line. Many teachers were dismissed. A terrace above the current school entrance dates back to the 1930s. Bunkers under the school parking lot also come from the NS era. In 1946 the 8th Volksschule Reinickendorf was renamed Hermann-Schulz-Schule. This was in memory of victims of fascism.
After the initial unified schools were abolished Hermann-Schulz-Schule became crowded. It had students from different school types. There were also many primary school children. The later 5th OH/OR shared a teaching staff. The primary school was one of Berlin’s largest. It had almost 1000 students. A pavilion with eight mobile classrooms was built in 1968. The primary school used it.
A new sports hall was built in 1970. Later the primary school was divided. It finally moved into new buildings. These were on Foxweg in 1972 and Kienhorststraße in 1973. The main building was rebuilt for the secondary school alone. The building still has much of the layout from that time. In the 1970s huge educational centers were created all over Berlin. Reinickendorf took a different approach. The third comprehensive school was set up in an old building. This was on Auguste-Viktoria-Allee 37. Only half-day operation was possible.
After several renovations the 3rd Oberschule Reinickendorf opened as a comprehensive school in 1976. The existing secondary and intermediate schools were dissolved in 1979. A sixth form was introduced in 1980.
The comprehensive school was named Max-Beckmann-Oberschule on September 13 1983. It was a comprehensive school with a grammar school sixth form. Max-Beckmann-Oberschule has been an integrated secondary school since 2011.
Today Max-Beckmann-Oberschule is known for its diverse programs. These include the Solarboot AG. Students design solar boats. They participate in national races. The school also has international partnerships. These are with schools in Italy and the USA.
Max-Beckmann-Oberschule stands as a testament to Berlin’s history. It embodies resilience adaptation and a commitment to education. From its humble beginnings to its current form the school continues to shape young minds. It prepares them for the challenges and opportunities of the future.