Peter Ustinov School celebrates 125 years: Art connects generations!

Peter Ustinov School celebrates 125 years: Art connects generations!

A very special day for them Peter Ustinov Comprehensive School in Nippes: On Friday the school celebrated its 125th birthday, and on this occasion Igor Ustinov, an artist with many facets - sculptor, biologist and singer - took the opportunity to visit the students. He spoke about the importance of art in education and how it can transform lives.

The topic of the exchange was none other than the question: “How do we understand a ‘good school’ and what role does musical and cultural education and democracy education play in this?” A significant aspect highlighted by KCC Dance Project Director Nassaro Mkwesso was the belief that art has the ability to positively impact people's lives. The ceremony was characterized by a positive atmosphere that reflected the school's special philosophy.

Creativity and democracy in the classroom

The Peter Ustinov Comprehensive School is not only known for its musical and cultural focus, but also for its commitment to values ​​such as respect, tolerance and diversity. Deputy school principal Songül Kampz emphasized how important cultural education is in opening doors for disadvantaged children. In an environment that promotes such values, students can develop creative skills and learn a good knack for treating each other with respect.

The school cooperates closely with various music and art schools and is proud to be part of the Mus-E program. The children are allowed to work with professional artists, which strengthens their self-confidence. Artist Marisa Aramayo explained that by working together, students not only find confidence in themselves, but also in their classmates.

But what about democracy education? The school faces some challenges here. Özge Demir, a committed teacher, reported on votes on the “Schools against Racism – Schools with Courage” network in which, unfortunately, 25% of participants voted against this important project. This illustrates the need for practical approaches in political education that should not only be treated theoretically, but should also be actively experienced.

Cultural education as the key to participation

Cultural education and democracy education are not only core concerns of the Peter Ustinov Comprehensive School, but are also addressed on a broader level. In a project by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research called KuBiDemo is known, the aim is to combine the two educational approaches. The aim is to recognize the intersections and promote participation as well as self-determined judgment and action.

The project includes numerous laboratories in the fields of visual arts, theater, literature and architecture. Methods are developed there that help to integrate cultural education into lessons and at the same time consolidate democratic principles. The results of this initiative should also gain importance in the educational landscape and offer valuable support to those involved.

Overall, it shows that cultural education is more than just a nice side thing. It has the potential to enable social participation and promote educational equality. The funding period from 2024 to 2026 is all about diversity, social cohesion and the challenges of digitalization - topics that also... Research projects of the BMBF have a lasting impact.

Igor Ustinov's visit to the Peter Ustinov Comprehensive School is an expression of the hope that still exists in cultural education. He called on the students to show respect for one another and to advocate for an open, creative life. An impressive day that will certainly be remembered fondly not only at school but also far beyond.