“Wo Neugier auf Wissen trifft.” Does this motto resonate as you stand before the Wilhelm-Ostwald-Schule? This is not just any school. The Wilhelm-Ostwald-Schule is a gymnasium in Leipzig with a focus on mathematics and science.
The Wilhelm-Ostwald-Schule’s story began in 1985. Two special classes were founded at the EOS Humboldt. There were 37 students in the 9th grade. Two years later, the school moved to Willi-Bredel-Straße 15. This building once housed the 55th POS “Bertolt Brecht.”
In 1989, the school received its current name. Wilhelm Ostwald’s granddaughter, Gretel Brauer, attended the naming ceremony. She presented the official name certificate. A bust of Wilhelm Ostwald was unveiled. It remains in the school’s foyer to this day.
The Wilhelm-Ostwald-Schule gained gymnasium status in 1992. An adjacent building was incorporated. It once belonged to the 53rd POS “Johannes R. Becher.” In 1994, the Saxon Ministry of Culture confirmed the school’s focus. It was mathematics and natural sciences.
Extensive renovations took place from 2009 to 2011. The entire school grounds were modernized. This included two school buildings, a sports hall, and the outdoor facilities. An extension was added. It included a cafeteria and an assembly hall.
What makes the Wilhelm-Ostwald-Schule unique? Students take three advanced courses instead of the usual two. Mathematics is mandatory as an advanced course. Students must take a mathematics advanced course exam for their Abitur.
To prepare students for academic work, they write a scientific practical paper. This is a special academic achievement that can contribute to their Abitur. This work is done as a research year in the 11th grade.
The Wilhelm-Ostwald-Schule faced a challenge in 2008. The Ministry of Education in Saxony planned to eliminate biology advanced courses. However, the school received an exemption. Since 2017, biology advanced courses are again possible throughout Saxony.
Since 2000, the Wilhelm-Ostwald-Schule has a chapter of the Technology Student Association. Every year, a team travels to the USA. They participate in the National Conference. They present their research results.
The school has a large student choir. There are regular sports clubs. Students participate in competitions. These include “Youth Trains for Olympia” and the annual student marathon. The school has won the student marathon several times.
A bilingual chemistry club is offered from the 9th grade. The Wilhelm-Ostwald-Schule also has its own school club. Students can spend time there during breaks. They can also visit after school.
The Wilhelm-Ostwald-Schule wants to awaken students’ awareness. They should know how much there is still to learn. The school aims to develop their ability. Students should learn independently.
The Wilhelm-Ostwald-Schule is an open all-day school. It offers after-school clubs on various topics. The Wilhelm-Ostwald-Schule has been awarded the “Certificate of Computation”. Around 500 students attend the Wilhelm-Ostwald-Schule. The Wilhelm-Ostwald-Schule also boasts a weather station. This allows students to engage with science playfully. The school participates in numerous science competitions.
The Wilhelm-Ostwald-Schule stands as a beacon. It fosters curiosity and prepares students. It equips them for the challenges of tomorrow. Remember its motto as you continue your journey: “Wo Neugier auf Wissen trifft.” Where curiosity meets knowledge.