The German Swiss International School (GSIS), Hong Kong was established in 1969 by German and Swiss families who were looking for a bilingual German-English education in an international setting. From these early beginnings, GSIS has been developed through funding from the German Government and the Swiss Association, and has grown to be one of the leading international schools in Hong Kong.
The school offers education in two parallel streams from kindergarten through to secondary school and business college, following German and English educational systems. Nearly 1,300 students from over 30 countries are taught by a committed team of highly qualified teachers from German and English-speaking countries.
Our main campus is situated on the edge of the Country Park on Victoria Peak. However, with a growing need for space, classes can no longer be accommodated exclusively at our original premises, and we will soon be opening another campus in Pokfulam. We emphasise modern teaching approaches and promote the use of information and communication technology. Computers and interactive whiteboards are available throughout the school, and we have a dedicated Interactive Learning Centre attached to our Junior Library.
Our students enjoy numerous recreational activities in our leisure and sports facilities - with venues ranging from our swimming pool, tennis courts, and indoor sports hall, to a fitness centre and dance studio. Theatrical and musical performances take to the stage in the assembly hall, and separate junior and senior libraries facilitate quiet study and reading. Our younger students love their playgrounds, while older students generally prefer to relax in the Lounge, our GSIS cafeteria, or in the Common Room.
In the German Stream the lessons are focused on building towards the bilingual International Abitur. The language of instruction is essentially German, though some lessons are taught bilingually and in English from the secondary level. The Business College prepares the students for vocational qualifications in either Wholesale and Foreign Trade Management, or Transport and Logistics Management, which are both recognised across the EU and in Switzerland. Northumbria University in Newcastle and the RMIT University in Melbourne also count the qualifications from the Business College as part of a fast track scheme to their undergraduate qualifications.
The English Stream is working towards a transition to the IB in 2013 from the current GCSE, AS Levels and A Level examinations, with the first set of students taking the new exams in 2015. The language of instruction is English. Foreign language lessons start with German, and then Mandarin and French are later offered as second foreign language options. Many of the graduates go on to study at renowned universities in the United Kingdom and in the United States. The school is an official test centre for the American Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SATs).
Our students enjoy a broad range of extra-curricular activities. We offer something for everyone, with opportunities for involvement in sport at competitive levels, in music in the choir, orchestra, and Big Band, as well as in drama groups and our flourishing Debating Society. In early autumn each year, we take learning outside the classroom for Discovery Week; a programme of trips and activities designed to stretch and challenge our students. Such school trips strengthen the sense of community amongst students, develop their independence and raise their self-awareness. Students are taught to apply their learning in their everyday life, showing consideration for others and for the environment. We have a variety of student initiatives in the areas of social care, animal welfare, and environmental protection, including a committed Community Involvement Group.
Our parents also play an active role in the school, serving as parent representatives or as members of the Boards and their sub-committees. The Mothers' Committee, including a number of fathers, runs the School Shop and organises annual events. The welcome Brunch, Christmas Bazaar and Spring Ball all raise valuable funds for GSIS and strengthen the sense of belonging amongst students, teachers, staff and parents.
At the German Swiss International School we encourage and foster the talents of our students - as well-rounded individuals, responsible team members and open-minded citizens of the 21st century. We help our students explore the traditions that surround, shape and enrich us: the worlds of German and English-speaking countries as well as of our host country China. We cooperate. We share. We learn from each other.
GSIS is a centre of educational excellence, within a vibrant, creative and caring community.
For more information about the school please visit our website www.gsis.edu.hk or come and see us in person at 11 Guildford Road, The Peak, Hong Kong. (Telephone +852 2849 6216, Fax +852 2849 6347)
