Otfried-Preußler-Schule

“A school where robbers, ghosts, witches, and watermen roam free?” a child might ask, wide-eyed with wonder. You’re standing before the Otfried-Preußler-Schule in Hanover, a place where imagination truly takes flight. This isn’t your average elementary school. The Otfried-Preußler-Schule, a barrier-free marvel, opened its doors in its current location in 2016. Before that, it resided on Meterstraße, carrying a different name. But a transformation was brewing, even as the new building on Birkenstraße was still under construction. A new logo emerged: a sturdy birch tree, leaves vibrant green, symbolizing the school’s motto, “Wurzeln geben, Vielfalt leben” (Giving Roots, Living Diversity). This motto, born from workshops with teachers, parents, and students, encapsulates the Otfried-Preußler-Schule’s commitment to nurturing a strong foundation of trust and appreciation for every child. The school sought a name to match its evolving identity, ultimately choosing to honor the beloved children’s author, Otfried Preußler. This choice brought about a whimsical touch. The four “houses” within the school, each housing grades one through four, are named after Preußler’s fantastical creations: the Robber House, the Ghost House, the Witches, and the Water Men. Imagine the delight of a child proclaiming, “I’m a Witch!” or “I’m a Robber!” This playful structure fosters a sense of belonging and security, a crucial ingredient for a thriving learning environment. At the Otfried-Preußler-Schule, inclusion isn’t just a buzzword, it’s woven into the fabric of the school day. From the morning circle, conducted with sign language that every student learns, to the individualized learning approach, every child’s needs are considered. Children with diverse abilities learn side-by-side, their unique strengths celebrated and nurtured. The Otfried-Preußler-Schule is a constant work in progress, continuously striving to improve. The innovative “Lernzeit” (learning time), where students work independently on individualized tasks, is a testament to this commitment. And let’s not forget “Ottis Eck,” the inclusive school kiosk run entirely by the students. They handle everything, from baking waffles to managing the finances. It’s a delicious lesson in entrepreneurship and teamwork. The Otfried-Preußler-Schule isn’t just preparing children for the world of tomorrow; it’s empowering them to shape it.