Berlin - Post Report Question and Answers
What is the availability of international schools? What has been your general experience with them, if any?
There are three primary options for the Embassy community. Each has its strengths and weaknesses; while we love ours (the smallest and least frequently picked option of the three) I'm reticent to say it's a good fit for everyone. Don't wait on the CLO to tell you what the differences are, especially since they tend to change and vary widely by age group. We don't use buses but school bussing (all commercial/private) has been a real sore point for parents lately. - Aug 2023
Several options though most parents go to JFK or BBIS. Both seem to have issues, but people are generally happy. - Feb 2018
Variety of choice. Kennedy School with large German population. British school (apparently experiencing hard times though) and several "International Schools." My experience was with BBIS (Berlin-Brandenburg International School.) Large number of international students. - Aug 2013
School choices abound. English or bi-lingual schools include JFK (John F. Kennedy School), BBIS (Berlin Brandenburg International School), BIS (Berlin International School), BBS (Berlin British School), BKIS (Berlin Kids International School), Berlin Metropolitan School, and the Nelson Mandela School. My kids are at the JFK elementary school and they love it. They are essentially fluent in German and we have met some great local friends through the school. I know kids at each of the other schools I've mentioned, and their parents all seem happy as well. Look into the school options and find one that works for your family. - Dec 2011
