Neues Gymnasium Oldenburg (NGO)

In the location's words:

The most important task of schools is to actively support the growth of young people into mature individuals by teaching them not only to orient themselves on what is tried and tested, but also - by preserving what is tried and tested - to critically take on social developments on their own responsibility, anticipate them and possibly initiate them themselves. This includes understanding school as a community that is constantly and sensitively observing, correcting and renewing itself, in which all those involved in school life - pupils, parents and teachers - contribute their knowledge, experience, skills and abilities according to their respective tasks. It is precisely through the ideas and courage of intelligent, universally educated, but also solidly acting and creative young people that new impulses can be given to the community and new paths indicated. Further statements arise from such a time-specific definition: -School should be a space for young people to live and learn comprehensively. This means that pupils should be supported in a variety of ways in the sense of holistic learning, enjoy their work and develop critical thinking and a sense of responsibility. Challenging lessons are complemented by a variety of intellectual, cultural, sporting and social activities. In the community of our school, young people should be affirmed in their talents, supported in their weaknesses and encouraged to realize their potential in a friendly atmosphere. In this process, however, school must not restrict the young people, but must give them the opportunity to engage and relate to the common project of school in freedom. -Learning for maturity cannot be left to the discretion of the school. Schools must formulate goals, pursue them in a straightforward manner and demand that they are achieved. However, the following also applies: As much as we strive for consistency in our goals and our behavior, we are subject to the currents of the times, including errors. The necessary role model function (not only, but above all, of teachers) includes self-reflection and a willingness to modify our own standards. The demand for and willingness to perform therefore corresponds to a critical awareness of its content and modesty in self-assessment - working together requires reliability, solidarity, punctuality and, if necessary, control. But it only thrives when there is mutual appreciation and trust that it is possible to reach the goal by different means. An atmosphere of liberality and plurality is created when people of different social backgrounds, interests and convictions work together. -School is a place of strenuous learning, arduous comprehension, but also a place to stay and linger together for the purpose of exchanging experiences, considering and weighing up behavior and developing goals that can be achieved by the majority. The maturity, intellectuality and creativity to be acquired at school means a unity of rational, emotional and practical action. -Pupils are prepared in the best possible way for a professional and academic career by emphasizing a good technical education, a broad general education and the ability to learn independently. Their creativity should be encouraged and they should be able to solve problems in a team. Of equal importance is the teaching of fundamental ethical and moral values such as openness, tolerance, respect and helpfulness.

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