School Spotlight: Frankfurt International School (FIS)

Schrole is proud to represent some of the very best international schools from around the world. In our School Spotlight series, we’ll take an in-depth look at these schools, detailing their history, ethos, location and of course, benefits, to help you choose the school that best suits you.

Snapshot: Frankfurt International School (FIS)

Year founded: 1961
Public or private: Private school
Profit/Not for profit: Not-for-profit
Day or boarding: Day
Segregation type: Co-Educational
Religious affiliation: None
Curriculum: IB DP, IB PYP
Instructional language: English
Alternate instructional language: None
Start grade: Nursery
End grade: 12

About: Frankfurt International School (FIS)

Frankfurt International School (FIS) is an independent, co-educational day school, which offers an exceptional educational program from First Steps (age 3) through Grade 12 for students of all nationalities.

FIS is one of the oldest international schools in Europe, founded in 1961 by a group of six expatriate families from major international companies to meet the need for an English-speaking education in the Frankfurt area.

Since its founding, FIS has continued to grow, serving as a centre of learning for thousands of students from around the world 60 countries.

FIS is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). It is also a founding member of the International Baccalaureate Organisation and has been offering the IB Diploma Programme for over 50 years, as well as an American High School Diploma.

FIS is a registered examination centre for the IB, PSAT, SAT, ACT and AP exams. The school is a founding member of the European Council of International Schools (ECIS), which was renamed The Educational Collaborative for International Schools in 2016, and is also a member of the Association for German International Schools (AGIS).

Ethos: Frankfurt International School (FIS)

Frankfurt International School (FIS) educates with a mission to be a leading culturally diverse and family-oriented school with English as the principal language of instruction.

FIS inspires young individuals to develop their intellect, creativity and character to become independent, adaptable, socially responsible and internationally minded citizens, by ensuring a dynamic, inquiry-driven education of the highest standard.

FIS’ curriculum is international, cantered on the programs of the International Baccalaureate with strong emphasis on academic rigor and preparation for university studies, and the development of leadership skills and positive character attributes.

German is part of the curriculum for all students and an immersion program is offered at certain grade levels. French and Spanish are offered as foreign languages starting in Grade 6. A first-language (mother tongue) program is also offered in Dutch, Japanese, Korean and Swedish. English-as-a-Second-Language is offered in all grades with basic proficiency levels expected in the upper grades.

Numerous co-curricular activities are available in drama, music, arts, literary activities and sports.

Facilities: Frankfurt International School (FIS)

Frankfurt International School (FIS)’ multi-campus school is one of the best in the world. Both campuses follow the same curriculum and adhere to the same renowned standards of teaching excellence.

Both FIS Oberursel and FIS Wiesbaden offer the Primary Years Programme of the International Baccalaureate (PYP) and the Upper School offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma.

Fis Oberursel Campus

Frankfurt International School’s Oberursel campus, which serves more than 1,600 students from age 3 through Grade 12, is located on a sprawling property in the Frankfurt suburb, just 23 kilometers from the city center.

The campus’ Primary School is a purpose-built facility, catering to the needs of the approximately 220 students from age 3 (First Steps) through Grade 1, who are enrolled there. The Primary School sits at the upper end of the campus and is surrounded by the lush Taunus forests.

From Grades 2–5, students attend Elementary School, continuing their learning journey and building essential skills and confidence through a challenging Primary Years Programme (PYP) curriculum.

In the Upper School’s Middle School (Grades 6–8) and High School (Grades 9–12), students engage in a rich and demanding college preparatory program, as well as extra-curricular activities, organised clubs and service projects, that often lead to travel and exchanges in other parts of Europe.

Success in the Upper School leads to countless opportunities beyond FIS as graduates gain admission to the world’s top colleges and universities with the support from our college counselors.

Oberursel Campus

Located 40 kilometers from central Frankfurt, FIS’ recently redesigned Wiesbaden campus (FISW) serves more than 200 children from age 3 through Grade 8. This countryside campus is known for its family-centered community where teachers are invested in the success of every student. Following the same curriculum as the Oberursel campus, FISW provides a warm and personal atmosphere that allows for a supportive and personally challenging environment where every student is known and respected.

From the nearby forests and horse stables to the new state-of-the-art ACE (Arts, Creativity and Education) Centre, students in the Primary School and Elementary School have the best of both worlds – access to the latest technology and a natural landscape in which to explore.

Middle School students benefit from the same outstanding facilities, enjoying their own wing of the school specifically designed for independent teenagers. Experienced faculty work with students as a team to create custom learning experiences, and smaller classes allow for innovative and dynamic opportunities to ensure student engagement and maximum student growth.

After graduating from the Wiesbaden campus, students are guaranteed admission to the Oberursel Campus Upper School for Grades 9–12.

Faculty

Parents, faculty and staff can pursue their interests through classes within the REAL Activities Program. These activities range from spinning and yoga to cooking and German lessons. Parents, faculty and staff are also invited to participate in weekly pick-up games for indoor soccer, basketball, badminton and volleyball; all levels of experience are welcome.

Location: Frankfurt International School (FIS)

Both of Frankfurt International School (FIS)’s campuses are located in central Frankfurt.

Living and working in Frankfurt as an expat is an offers a fusion of German efficiency and cosmopolitan charm. The city, with its iconic skyline punctuated by sleek skyscrapers, is not only a financial powerhouse but also a cultural hub that seamlessly marries tradition with modernity.

Frankfurt’s well-connected public transport system and bike-friendly streets make it easy to explore the city’s historic sites, like the Römer and St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, or indulge in the greenery of the Palmengarten.

The city’s commitment to the arts is evident in its numerous museums, showcasing everything from classical masterpieces to contemporary exhibitions.

With a strong job market, excellent infrastructure, and a high quality of life, Frankfurt invites expats into a dynamic and rewarding experience.

Benefits: Frankfurt International School (FIS)

Moving Allowance: Relocation assistance is provided for foreign faculty hire only.

Accommodation: FIS provides support in finding a new home, whether it is a private rental or a FIS-managed apartment. Please keep in mind when moving to Germany and opting for a private rental, that usually 2 or 3 months rent deposit (excluding utilities) will be due for payment at the beginning of the tenancy. Please note this is available for foreign faculty only.

Interested in working for Frankfurt International School (FIS)? View vacancies and apply now.