The New School Oberschule Schwachhausen
In August, classes began for the new secondary school in Schwachhausen, located in close proximity to the University of Bremen. A fifth grade is starting for the first time after the summer break, participating in the exciting concept of the school. This proximity opens up opportunities for future collaborations between the university and the secondary school.
Although the name of the secondary school might suggest it is located in the Schwachhausen district, it is actually situated in Horn-Lehe and is one of four new secondary schools that have opened for the 2024/25 school year. The school is located in the former Siemens building on Universitätsallee, which also features a cafeteria for the half-day program. Currently, it is still in the founding phase and consists solely of fifth-grade classes, with five classes per grade. In the coming years, however, the school is set to grow grade by grade.
The focus of the founding team is on providing a contemporary education that fosters talent and is oriented towards students' interests. Learning is designed to be relevant to real-life contexts, which is also reflected in the school’s concept and program. This approach aims to create a positive association with learning. Through research projects, subject-specific knowledge is introduced and conveyed in a thematic manner. Individual research projects and product phases allow for self-directed implementation of the content. From small books to models and even self-composed music—creativity knows no bounds. The school aims to actively promote diversity among students and in the projects, as outlined in its school profile. Various offerings, such as a school garden and programs in robotics, textile arts, and the chemistry lab, contribute to this goal.
The projects also provide opportunities for collaboration with the university in both the chemistry lab and art education. This includes, for example, art workshops and joint presentations. Additionally, the university gym is used for physical education classes.
The concept is implemented spatially in various ways. Each grade has its own designated area, which includes differentiation rooms, subject-specific classrooms, and large study rooms. Here, students can work on projects using floor cushions, in seating areas, or at standing tables. Additionally, work results can be presented using display boards.
The new secondary school in Schwachhausen aims to develop an educational concept where knowledge is not only acquired but talents are also nurtured. It is an exciting development in close proximity to the university.
