“MGJ is in Europe—Europe lives at MGJ,” rapped 60 sixth-graders when the Jülich Girls’ Gymnasium received the “European School” certificate. The first curricula on the topic of Europe at MGJ were developed in 1994, under Principal Dr. Rosemarie Rheinbold. Since then, the theme of “Europe” has been integrated across subjects in grade 9. Ines Nagelschmitz, as principal until 2008, pushed for the exchange programs.
In addition to the opportunity to learn five European languages—whether in classes or working groups (AGs)—geography and history are taught in English. Complementing the German-language branch, there is a class where the language of instruction is exclusively English.
In collaboration with the school, the girls can obtain international language certificates in Aachen. Additionally, foreign language assistants from the Cologne district government regularly visit the girls’ gymnasium; they are part of the language instruction and independently lead working groups (AGs).
However, Europe is not just about learning languages—it thrives on encounters, which are made possible in various ways at MGJ. In addition to an extensive network of partner schools in Europe—maintained for over 20 years—and beyond, reaching East Africa, Australia, and Canada, the school is part of the European Comenius project. Project days, school festivals, and patronage days have consistently emphasized the idea of Europe.
In the future, the girls’ gymnasium plans to introduce additional European certificates and leverage the “location advantage of Euregio.” A European Computer Driving License is set to be implemented as well. to be introduced. The most important practical component will be the offering of internships abroad.
Every year, the Jülich Girls’ Gymnasium celebrates a European Festival with its school community, where a different European country is highlighted each time.
