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Inclusive school in Cologne: living and learning diversity in the new building!
Kalk is celebrating the move to an inclusive elementary school that embraces diversity and promotes intercultural education.
Inclusive school in Cologne: living and learning diversity in the new building!
Looking for an environment that promotes learning? Then take a look at the new inclusive primary school in the Kalk district of Cologne! After moving into newly renovated premises, those responsible are looking positively towards the new school year. The children quickly accepted the new atmosphere and are enthusiastic about the modern classrooms.
A big advantage of the school are the well-equipped specialist rooms, which are used together with the comprehensive school. These resources are often not available at other elementary schools and offer students a variety of learning opportunities. The school thus reflects the great social diversity of the location, where only a third of the students are Catholic. Diversity is lived here – as part of the children’s daily lives.
Pedagogical concept and dealing with diversity
Dealing with diversity is a completely normal topic in primary schools, which also integrate children with mental and physical disabilities and special needs. “Every child is an image of God,” emphasizes Marion Wilmhoff, who speaks for the school. At regular church services, students also have the opportunity to formulate their own prayers, for example for greater acceptance in society.
The special pedagogical concept focuses on independent learning, away from frontal teaching. The children work with individually designed work plans, supported by teachers who respond to their needs. Despite this flexibility, the classrooms remain quiet, which is probably due to the clearly structured nature of the lessons.
How is religious education organized? Both are offered here: classically Catholic and in the form of an intercultural Felix group that is open to all students. The aim is to get to know different faiths and link them together in an intercultural and interreligious framework.
Intercultural education according to Wolfgang Nieke
Nieke's work shows that a diverse school culture not only enriches learning, but also promotes social integration. The elementary school in Kalk not only implements these principles, but also practices them every day in class. Nieke's principles help to build an appreciative and respectful student community that sees diversity as a strength.
In an increasingly pluralistic society, such approaches are more important than ever. The Cologne primary school shows that inclusive learning and intercultural education can go hand in hand and is thus taking an important step towards a harmonious community.