Expert Info
on 23 Apr 2020
Hello everyone.
We are moving to Berlin this summer and I am looking for a good public or not-that-expensive school for my 3 children.
What would you recommend if they only speak a little bit of English and no German? And could you tell us about the integration process in Germany? Is it true that they would need to take one year of preparatory classes? Or can they be enrolled in a regular class (according to their age) and pick up the language as they go?
Thank you,
Simona
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Hi Simona,
That's great that you and your family are moving to Berlin. There are many bilingual and private school options in Berlin. What languages do your children speak? Most often, bilingual and international schools are expats choice for their children's education. This is because there are a range of international schools that cater for different languages. Although, these can be costly and so is not what you are looking for. Still, if you are interested, take a look at our list of International School in Berlin, with each corresponding school website having a fee breakdown.
Public schools may offer other language courses, but ideally, being able to understand German is necessary in these institutions. How long do you plan on staying in Germany? If you are going to stay long-term, public schooling would be a great opportunity for your children to integrate into Berlin society and learn German. At their young ages they may be able to pick it up with some extra help. Do have a read of Education and Schools in Berlin as this could help your decision. Normally children can be enrolled according to their age, and one option is to first send your children to a bilingual or international school to learn German without language barriers and then transfer later.
All the best,
C