14 Dec 2023

STEM / MINT

The International German School HCMC is proud to announce that on December 1, 2023, it was recognized and honored as an acknowledged STEM school (MINT freundliche Schule) by the Germany-based national initiative “MINT Zukunft schaffen”. This award has been granted to only a few German international schools so far and represents recognition of our commitment, achievements, and quality in the STEM areas (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). It marks a significant milestone in our school’s history.
The IGS aims to offer the Bilingual International Baccalaureate (GIB), which sets high standards in mathematics and the natural science subjects of biology, chemistry, and physics. This award emphasizes the prime importance we place on STEM. Therefore, our central task is to support our students in this area as best as possible.

Currently, in the U6 area, we offer weekly early science classes. Upon entering primary school, our students are introduced to scientific and technical methods in general studies, which are deepened in secondary school. Additionally, we introduce information and communication technology (ICT) classes in primary school to prepare students for digitalized education.
In secondary school, we further intensify our STEM focus. Our students consistently take mathematics and all three natural sciences as main subjects from grades 5 to 10, supplemented by ICT education as a minor subject. Special highlights include the science learning landscapes in classes 5 and 6 and the research hours in classes 9 and 10. The latter allows students to develop a scientific examination of a given question and present the results in the form of findings, products, or other achievements. This research work serves as preparation for the GIB program. Additionally, a three-week laboratory internship is planned for class 10, where students will conduct practical experiments under the guidance of our biology, chemistry, and physics teachers, enhancing their laboratory skills.

This recognition as a STEM school confirms that we are on the right path to preparing our students for the demands of a constantly-evolving technological world. Moreover, it opens access to a network of other STEM schools, universities, companies, and institutions. This allows for the exchange of best practice, participation in joint projects, and the formation of close partnerships. Additionally, the IGS will benefit from additional resources such as training for teachers and learning materials through participation in the MINTMAX partner program. We are proud of this recognition and look forward to continuing our efforts to provide excellent STEM education and support to our students.