Our primary school
Your child at the centre

From their very first day of school, children at our campuses in Erlenbach and Heilbronn experience a bilingual school day in German and English – guided by native-speaking educators. We combine the Baden-Württemberg state curriculum with international perspectives and place great emphasis on a differentiated and inclusive learning environment. In classes with a maximum of 24 children, our multidisciplinary teams create a warm and supportive atmosphere that encourages individual learning while fostering values such as open-mindedness, respect and independence.

English and German are part of our everyday lives – not just in the classroom, but out in the school yard as well.«

 

Abigail Cossettini
Head of Elementary School Erlenbach

Why parents choose our bilingual primary school

1

Bilingual learning

From year 1 onwards, children experience both German and English as part of their everyday school life. Native-speaking teachers guide them through lessons and daily routines. In this way, your child grows into bilingualism naturally and with confidence.

2

STEM with heart

Whether in maths lessons, our LEGO® Education Lab or the experimental kitchen – our STEM focus sparks curiosity and critical thinking. Scientific topics are explored in a hands-on and age-appropriate way, encouraging children to question, discover and solve problems from an early age.

3

Focused on every child

We focus on each child’s individual strengths, interests and pace of learning. In small classes, our multi-professional team provides differentiated support and guidance throughout the learning journey. Using the SMARTIES book, our students regularly set personal goals and reflect on their own progress.

4

Reliable care

From 7:30am to 6:00pm, our school day offers more than just lessons – it provides time to play, move, create and relax. Your child also enjoys a varied programme during the holidays. While you benefit from a reliable daily structure, your child experiences a sense of security and enriching variety.

5

Strong through values

To us, social skills are just as important as academic ones. We practise respect, openness and personal responsibility – both in the classroom and in the way we work together. This helps our students grow into empathetic, confident individuals.

6

Diverse learning environments

Modern classrooms, digital tools and a wide range of specialist spaces open up new learning worlds. Whether in the art studio, the physical activity room or using tablets – learning here is engaging, creative and hands-on. It’s how we spark real “aha” moments.

The primary school
leadership team

Ralf Schönborn

Head of Primary School

Abigail Cossettini

Primary School Lead Erlenbach

Kevin Helsel

Primary School Lead Heilbronn

Negin Can

Deputy Primary School Lead Erlenbach | German Coordinator

Anna Quirmbach

Deputy Primary School Lead Heilbronn | German Coordinator

Joshua Fehrenbach

Lead of Assistant Teachers & Afternoon Programme Heilbronn

Lisa Binder

Lead of Assistant Teachers & Afternoon Programme Erlenbach

Frequently asked questions
about our primary school

  • Do children need to speak English before starting year 1?

    No, children do not need any prior knowledge of English to join year 1 at Josef-Schwarz-Schule.

    However, they should be fluent in at least one of our two languages of instruction – either German or English.

  • Do we only need to register once, even if both locations are an option for reception or primary school?

    A single registration is all that’s required – there is no need to apply for both locations.

    You will be asked again during the parent meeting to indicate your preferred campus, and a final decision is only required at that point.

  • How are school fees calculated?

    School fees are based on the total household income, as stated in the income tax assessment from two years prior, for both parents or guardians.

    A detailed breakdown of parental contributions can be found on the registration pages of the respective school departments:

    Reception
    Primary school
    Secondary school
    College

We're happy
to help.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our two locations, please don’t hesitate to contact us.