At Josef-Schwarz-Schule, reception is the year before formal schooling begins. It offers young children at our Erlenbach and Heilbronn campuses a warm, supportive environment to discover, explore and grow. As part of our bilingual concept, children experience everyday life in both German and English through play and natural interaction from day one. Within a caring, family-like atmosphere, and closely connected to our primary school, we support each child in developing independence, confidence and social skills – all essential foundations for a confident transition into year 1.
From day one, children are accompanied by native-speaking staff in both German and English – in the classroom and beyond. This natural, immersive approach supports playful and lasting language development.
With care available from 7:30am to 6:00pm, we offer flexible and reliable full-day support for you and your child. Our varied afternoon and holiday programmes provide additional opportunities for learning, exploration and play.
Shared routines – from mealtimes to play and rest – help build a close bond between children and our educational team. The familiar atmosphere and consistent staff provide children with a sense of security and give you, as parents, peace of mind.
Reception offers a playful and flexible day, while gradually building your child’s ability to focus and follow routines. This gently prepares them for a smooth transition into year 1.
Reception is part of the main school building and closely connected to the primary school. Short distances, familiar caregivers and shared activities create a sense of safety and belonging. In lovingly designed indoor spaces and a secure outdoor area, your child can explore the world through play.
A balanced diet helps children stay healthy, focused and ready to learn. To underline our commitment to quality, our kitchen is certified by the German Nutrition Society (DGE – Deutsche Gesellschaft für Ernährung).
The daily routine in our reception balances free play with the gradual introduction of learning structure. At the beginning of the year, playtime takes centre stage, but over time, guided activities are introduced step by step.
In small groups and with trusted caregivers, children become familiar with school routines in a playful, relaxed way. Regular exchange between the reception and primary school team ensures strong educational continuity and a smooth transition into year 1.
Reception and primary school are closely connected – many of our educators and teachers work as one team. Children also meet familiar faces from both areas during afternoon and holiday programmes. This creates a strong sense of security and makes the transition to primary school feel natural and easy.
Our reception classrooms are designed to reflect the structure of primary school learning spaces while being carefully adapted to the needs of younger children.
Digital tools such as smartboards and tablets are introduced in an age-appropriate way, helping children become familiar with the technology they will later use at school.
At Josef-Schwarz-Schule, we see parents as valued partners in their child’s learning journey right from the start. We place great importance on open, honest and trusting collaboration.
Using the Seesaw App, we offer real-time insights into your child’s day – through photos, videos, reflections and updates on individual learning progress. The app creates transparency and helps you feel connected, even when you’re not on site.
Regular parent meetings and ongoing dialogue complete our understanding of a genuine educational partnership.
The immersion method surrounds children with both German and English as natural everyday languages. In our bilingual reception, this happens gently and intuitively through close, caring interaction with our native-speaking staff.
Language is supported with actions, gestures and facial expressions, helping children understand and absorb both languages in a playful and natural way.
Your child picks up both languages in a natural, intuitive way – just like a first language. They quickly learn to move between different language settings and begin to understand not only words and grammar, but also cultural differences and expressions.
Bilingual children don’t just learn two languages – they also train their brains in ways that support learning across the board. Concentration, memory and problem-solving improve through constant language switching, giving your child a strong foundation in all areas, from reading to maths.
In our reception, children build communication skills, develop self-confidence and experience cultural diversity in a playful and age-appropriate way.
This warm and inclusive environment gently prepares them for a world that is rich in perspectives, languages and cultures.
Ralf Schönborn
Head of Primary School
Nalah Abubakar
Reception Lead Heilbronn
Sibel Tabak
Lead of Reception Erlenbach
Lisa Binder
Lead of Assistant Teachers & Afternoon Programme Erlenbach
Joshua Fehrenbach
Lead of Assistant Teachers & Afternoon Programme Heilbronn
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.
To determine the correct school year, the relevant cut-off date must be observed.
For entry into reception, your child must have turned 5 by 30 June in the intended school year.
The same applies to year 1: your child must have turned 6 by the 30 June cut-off date in the desired school year.
Holiday care is generally included at no extra cost. For optional outings, such as mini golf or special excursions, a small additional fee may apply. These are charged separately.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our two locations, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
