The Deutsche Internationale Schule Johannesburg (DSJ) proudly announced that the school won the prestigious Der Deutsche Schulpreis for German schools abroad.
The award is said to be considered the most important ‘stamp of approval’ for all German schools. “In Germany, the event is often referred to as the ‘Oscars of schools award’,” said Principal of the school, Thomas Bachmeier.
He said that a small delegation from DSJ travelled to Berlin to attend the special ceremony on 8 June. The announcement was made live on German TV with German foreign minister, Frank-Walter Steinmeier in attendance.”Live streaming made it possible for the pupils of DSJ to watch the event in their school hall,” said Bachmeier.
Bachmeier explained that last year, DSJ submitted a 70-page entry form. “After the initial selection process, we were named as one of the three top candidates by the end of January,” said Bachmeier. He added that a jury arrived in Johannesburg three days after the announcement was made and put the school through its paces. A thorough inspection based on specific criteria was conducted: performance/output, diversity, educational quality, social responsibilty, quality of school life and the overall standing of the facility as a place of learning.
“After the three schools were visited, the jury deliberated and finally made their decision at the start of April that the DSJ and the Deutsche Schule Lima were the two best candidates of the year,” said Bachmeier.
He concluded that being named the best German School abroad has immense financial benefits but more importantly, it recognises the all-round achievements of the DSJ and the immense contribution of the whole school community. Bachmeier concluded that the staff was grateful for the accolade.
Details: Deutsche Internationale Schule Johannesburg, dsj@dsjmail.co.za or 011 726 6220/1
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