How long have you been working in secondary education?
I've been in secondary education for a year and a half.
What sets Austrian schools apart?
Austrian schools offer a unique educational experience due to several factors. Students have the opportunity to live and study in a country that shares its borders with eight nations and sits at the heart of Europe, providing ample opportunities to explore various European cultures.
Austria is a melting pot of international cultures and a hub for artistic excellence. Vienna, often hailed as the capital of cultural development and classical music, attracts some of the world's finest musicians seeking recognition and opportunities. At Amadeus School Vienna, we embody the essence and spirit of this vibrant city, immersing students in its rich cultural heritage and musical legacy.
Vienna has been recognized as the world's most livable city for two consecutive years by The Economist, earning high marks for its stability, cultural offerings, environmental safety, educational quality, infrastructure, and healthcare.
Why do parents opt for Austrian schools for their children's primary and secondary education?
The strategic location of Vienna and Austria, coupled with an increasing expatriate population, makes Austria a popular choice for children's education. Parents are confident that their children will receive a diverse and comprehensive educational experience, as students from over 50 nationalities study in the country. This multicultural environment provides an expansive worldview. At Amadeus School Vienna, students have the chance to pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, broadening their prospects for higher education and career opportunities globally.
How are Austrian boarding schools ranked, and how reliable are these rankings?
At Amadeus School Vienna, we collaborate with other institutions to form the first Austrian Association of International Schools, adhering to the quality standards set by the UK and the Association of Boarding Schools (BSA).
When is the best time to apply to Austrian boarding schools, and what should applicants prepare for?
It's advisable to apply well in advance of the desired start date, ideally before May if aiming for a September enrollment. Our application process includes a trial day with a campus tour, meetings with the director, assessments in English and mathematics, attending classes, and possibly staying overnight if applying for boarding.
What subjects are most popular among students?
Amadeus School Vienna offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, spanning from primary grades through to graduation. This program empowers children to start exploring their interests and hobbies from a young age, with a wide range of additional activities and classes to choose from, such as dance, music, and other arts.
As students reach the IB Diploma stage, they have the opportunity to select six subjects over the final two years of their schooling. For the 2020-2021 academic year, our students had the following choices:
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Russian
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Chinese
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History
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Business & Management
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Biology
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Physics
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Ecology
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Mathematical Applications and Interpretations
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Calculus
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Chemistry
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Economics
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Music
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Fine Arts.
This diverse selection allows students to tailor their education to their interests and career aspirations.
How has COVID-19 impacted student enrollment, and how have schools supported students during this time?
The pandemic has certainly posed challenges, but we've managed to turn these into opportunities. Our boarding experience allowed students to continue their studies in-person throughout the quarantine. We provided a stable online learning experience for those studying remotely, ensuring minimal disruption. Fortunately, all students have since returned to in-person learning.
Is it challenging for talented students to receive scholarships? What are the typical offerings?
Our scholarship program is one of the best, catering to financially less-advantaged but gifted and hardworking students. We offer financial grants in music and arts, covering free lessons throughout the student's time at Amadeus School Vienna. Academic scholarships can cover up to 100% of tuition, decided by the Board of Directors based on each candidate's comprehensive profile.
At what age do students typically enroll in Austrian schools?
We welcome students from ages 3 to 16-19 years, from kindergarten through to graduation.
Do all Austrian schools offer ESL courses? How important are they?
While I can't speak for all schools, at Amadeus School Vienna, we offer English language support tailored to the student's proficiency level. ESL is taught from grades 6 to 10, and younger students in grades 1-5 start learning English at a basic level.
What additional expenses should parents plan for?
Parents should budget for a registration fee, a refundable deposit, and uniforms (around 500 euros). Additionally, courses at the Academy of Music and Arts incur separate fees.
Beyond teacher qualifications, what do parents consider when choosing a school?
Parents often look for schools that foster a sense of community and offer opportunities beyond academics. We focus on involving students in extracurricular activities and encouraging artistic pursuits, aiming to develop well-rounded, empathetic individuals prepared for modern challenges.
What advice would you give to potential students before enrolling in an Austrian school?
Come and join us at Amadeus School Vienna for an experience that will enrich your life! We're dedicated to preparing you for the exciting years ahead, full of unforgettable experiences.
