Melanchthon-Gymnasium

Gazing upon the Melanchthon-Gymnasium, one might hear whispers of “Das Neue Gymnasium”. This was its initial working title after its creation in 2008. The Melanchthon-Gymnasium wasn’t always this singular entity. It arose from a fusion between the Leonard-Bernstein-Oberschule and the Max-Reinhardt-Gymnasium. Imagine the flurry of activity as two schools merged, creating a new identity. In 2009, it was christened the Melanchthon-Schule (Gymnasium). This name, a tribute to the influential philosopher and humanist Philipp Melanchthon, was later streamlined to Melanchthon-Gymnasium in 2013. Located on Adele-Sandrock-Straße, the Melanchthon-Gymnasium is nestled in a serene, green part of Hellersdorf, bordering nature reserves. The school boasts excellent transport links. The U-Bahnhof Louis-Lewin-Straße, served by the U5 line and bus 195, is within walking distance. Bus stops Schwarzheider Straße and Branitzer Straße, also on line 195, are conveniently located on Louis-Lewin-Straße. The Straßenbahnhaltestelle Jenaer Straße, with tram lines 18 and M6, is a short walk away via Riesaer Straße. Melanchthon-Gymnasium is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a place where students are nurtured and prepared for their future. In 2014, it was recognized for its outstanding career guidance program. This program, known as StuBe, is integrated into nearly every grade level. From ninth-grade career lessons and internships to personalized career counseling in eleventh grade, students are given the tools to explore their aspirations. The Melanchthon-Gymnasium also has specialized programs. Music-focused classes offer enhanced musical training, fostering existing talents. Students enjoy four hours of music instruction per week and receive vocal and instrumental training. There are also opportunities for extracurricular music activities, such as choir, orchestra, student bands, and a stage technology group. The school’s MINT program, focusing on math, information technology, natural sciences, and technology, began in the 2014/2015 school year. This program offers specialized classes for students starting in both fifth and seventh grade. The school even underwent extensive renovations between 2013 and 2016. The schoolyard was transformed with a playground and a beach volleyball court. The main entrance of House 1 received a new foyer and the entire courtyard was repaved and landscaped. A glass roof was installed between Houses 1 and 2, decorated with illustrations of Melanchthon’s life and quotes. The school’s aula also received a much-needed renovation, completed in 2014. A new stage with a curtain was added in 2016. This provides a perfect setting for theater performances. Today, the Melanchthon-Gymnasium continues to thrive. It stands as a testament to its namesake’s legacy of learning, humanism, and a commitment to education.