Our Subject Departments at a Glance

Our secondary school curriculum follows the structure of the eight-year German Gymnasium pathway (G8). Across all subject areas, we aim to give students an in-depth understanding of key concepts and content, equipping them not only with academic knowledge but also with the ability to apply what they learn in practice. Class discussions, debates, interdisciplinary projects, talks and presentations are an integral part of our curriculum. They encourage students to think critically, reflect on their learning and make connections across different subjects. These skills help prepare them for the academic and professional challenges that lie ahead. Explore our subject departments and the projects that bring learning to life.

Natural Sciences and Mathematics

As a school certified for excellence in STEM education, we provide students with a strong foundation in mathematics and the natural sciences. Practical, hands-on learning is central to our approach. Through projects involving robotics and artificial intelligence, as well as competitions such as the Science Olympiads, students can put their knowledge into practice and deepen their understanding.

Discover Languages

Whether connecting with other cultures, pursuing a career or navigating everyday life, strong language skills are essential in today's interconnected world. Through German, English, French, Spanish, Chinese and Latin, our students develop communication skills, intercultural awareness and effective learning strategies – while actively putting their language skills to use.

Social Sciences and Humanities

Through subjects such as Economics, Politics, History, Geography and Ethics, students learn to engage with the world around them and act responsibly. Projects, competitions and extracurricular activities complement classroom learning with practical experiences. These include participating in Model United Nations (MUN), taking part in the Diercke Geography Competition, visiting museums and conducting interviews with eyewitnesses to history.

Arts and Culture

Whether drawing, making music or performing on stage, bringing their own ideas to life helps students build confidence, creativity and social skills. Our programme offers a wide range of opportunities both in and beyond the classroom, including orchestra, Big Band, school bands, choir, art projects such as the yearbook competition, and theatre productions with live performances.

Sport

Our physical education programme develops students' motor, cognitive and social skills while taking individual abilities and needs into account. A varied programme of sporting events – from fun tournaments and the German Federal Youth Games (Bundesjugendspiele) to international competitions such as the East Asian Games – keeps students motivated and active throughout the year while fostering teamwork and a love of sport.

Secondary School Curricula

Timetable and Lesson Hours

Natural Sciences and Mathematics

Social Sciences and Humanities

Languages

Arts and Culture

Sport

Our Secondary School Team

Our dedicated and highly qualified team of around 80 teachers creates a supportive and stimulating learning environment where every student is encouraged to develop their individual strengths. We place great importance on each student's personal growth, helping them find their own path to success. Small class sizes allow our teachers to tailor their approach to different learning needs and provide targeted support within each class.

Meet Our Team

A Full Range of Recognised German Qualifications

Our secondary school curriculum follows the structure of the eight-year German Gymnasium pathway (G8), leading to the German International Abitur (DIA). Students can also work towards all other recognised German school-leaving qualifications at German School Shanghai. Our holistic approach to education prepares graduates to thrive in an international environment, whether they go on to further study, enter the world of work or pursue opportunities around the globe.

School Pathways at DSS

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The Latest News from Our Secondary School

From theatre performances and project weeks to Teutolab science workshops and much more, this is where you can find the latest news and upcoming events from our secondary school at both campuses.

All Secondary School News and Events

A Wide Range of Competitions

Our students have numerous opportunities to put their knowledge and skills to the test in competitions across a range of subjects. From Jugend debattiert (Youth Debates) to the German Entrepreneurship Award, the International Junior Science Olympiad and reading competitions, these challenges connect classroom learning with practical experience while fostering teamwork, creativity and problem-solving skills.

Excellent German Education

The DSS is one of the largest German schools abroad worldwide and is recognized by the Federal Foreign Office and the Conference of Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs of the States of the Federal Republic of Germany, and has received multiple awards. Since 2011, the school has held the “Excellent German School Abroad” seal of quality. The DSS has already been certified three times—most recently in 2025—as a STEM-friendly school.