Our Story

At German European School Manila, we are a multicultural learning community that brings together students, families, and educators from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. We believe that international education fosters open-mindedness, respect, creativity, and global responsibility.

Our school environment encourages students to grow academically, socially, and personally while embracing intercultural understanding and collaboration.

1980

Foundation of José Rizal School

The German European School Manila traces its origins to 5 August 1980, when it was founded under the name José-Rizal-Schule.

The name was proposed by Rudolf Lietz, a member of the founding board, in honour of the Philippine national hero José Rizal. Rizal’s academic experience in Germany, particularly in Heidelberg, and his appreciation of German educational traditions contributed to the connection between his legacy and the school’s educational vision.

1984

Official German School Abroad recognition

1992

Foundation of Eurocampus

In 1992, the school entered a new phase with the establishment of the Eurocampus in Parañaque City.

German school + French school, they got together to establish a joint campus, Later named "Eurocampus"

The Manila Eurocampus is recognised as the first French-German Eurocampus in the world and later served as a reference model for similar international school partnerships.

The concept introduced a shared campus environment where different national school systems operate alongside one another while maintaining close educational cooperation.

2002

Creation of European International School Inc.

In 2002, Franco-German cooperation on the campus was further formalised through the creation of the European International School Inc. (EIS).

This development strengthened administrative coordination and supported the joint management of campus facilities and long-term educational collaboration between the partner schools.

2003

Introduction of IB Diploma Programme

Over the years, GESM has expanded its academic programmes to include internationally recognised qualifications and pathways.

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) was introduced in 2003 with an initial group of students from both the German and French schools. Following accreditation in 2004, the programme gradually expanded and became an established part of the school’s academic offering.

2005

Renamed German European School Manila

In 2005, the school adopted its current name, German European School Manila (GESM), reflecting its broader international identity.

During the same period, the English-speaking “Euro-Section” was introduced, expanding access to students from a wider international community. This development contributed to a more multilingual and internationally oriented school environment.

2011 & 2017

First Seal of Excellence

GESM has received several forms of recognition reflecting its academic standards and development as a German school abroad.

In 2011 and 2017, the school was awarded the Seal of Excellence as an officially recognised “Excellent German School Abroad.”

2013-2016

Master Plan modernization begins

Beginning in 2013, GESM undertook a broader modernisation programme focused on improving learning facilities and academic infrastructure.

By 2016, the Physics, Chemistry, and Biology laboratories had been fully upgraded with modern equipment to support science education across different year levels.

2014, 2018, 2019

Academic Developments

Introduction of the DSD I programme in 2014

Introduction of the DSD II programme in 2018

Recognition as a Cambridge Assessment International Education examination centre in 2019

2021

IB Career-Related Programme introduced

In 2021, GESM expanded its International Baccalaureate offerings through the introduction of the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP), providing students with additional pathways combining academic and career-oriented studies.

2026-2027

Integration of the German and English Sections

Beginning in the 2026–2027 academic year, GESM will integrate the German and English sections from Grades 6 to 10.

This development aims to strengthen bilingual and multilingual learning opportunities within the school community. Students will continue to have flexibility in choosing the language pathway through which selected subjects are taught, while learning together in a more integrated international environment.

The transition reflects the school’s ongoing commitment to intercultural learning, academic cooperation, and multilingual education.

THE GERMAN EUROPEAN SCHOOL MANILA TODAY

Today, German European School Manila combines:

German academic standards

International curricula

Multilingual learning environments

European educational cooperation

Global citizenship values

GESM provides a learning environment that brings together academic development and cultural diversity, preparing students for international educational pathways and participation in a globally connected world.