WAB Podcast | Inside German Language Learning at WAB

This week on the WAB Podcast, High School students and teacher Ms. Ramona from the joint WAB and Swiss School German Language Program sat down to share what makes this unique learning pathway so meaningful for language development, cultural connection, and personal growth. 

At WAB, the German Program, starting in Middle School, offers students the opportunity to study two blocks per rotation in German: Language & Literature and Individuals & Societies. Classes are organized in mixed-age groups (Grades 6–7 and Grades 8–9), following a two-year cycle that blends natural differentiation with strong academic expectations. 

For many students, the program is deeply personal. Several shared how studying in their home language helps them stay connected to their identity: 

“Sometimes I felt like I was losing my German side because I wasn’t speaking daily. This really helped me keep that up.” 
“Now I can speak German every day, not just at home.” 

Others enjoy discovering who else in their WAB community shares the language: 

“Last year we were only five people, now we’re more. It’s cool, you get the opportunity to speak German and connect with friends in a different way.” 

The mixed-age structure is one of the program’s strengths. Older students support younger peers; advanced learners take on more complex work, and everyone works at their own pace without comparison. As one student shared: 

“You can learn from other people, and they can learn from you.” 

Culture is also a vibrant part of the learning experience. This year, students baked Swiss cookies with the Elementary Swiss School, contributed to cultural events, and launched an email exchange with a partner school in Switzerland. These activities help students explore life in German-speaking regions and stay connected to traditions. 

Beyond language, students say the program enhances their academics and confidence, especially when traveling to German-speaking regions or navigating other international contexts. Many also see it as a valuable pathway for families who may move to German-speaking countries in the future. 

As one student summed up: 

“It’s a new opportunity to learn about different cultures and connect with people you didn’t even know shared the language.” 

For teacher Ms. Ramona, new to WAB this year, the program is just as meaningful: 

“It’s really nice to have a place where I still feel connected to my roots. And it’s a wonderful opportunity for students with German-speaking backgrounds or students who are new to learning German.” 

Find out more about WAB’s German Program and Swiss School Beijing.