As we begin the 2026/27 school year, we are delighted to warmly welcome all our new and returning colleagues on this sunny 1 September!
As always, the day began with our traditional group photo in the schoolyard, followed by the opening conference for all ESM staff.
School Director Anton Hrovath, Director of the Secondary School Martin Duggen, Director of the Nursery and Primary School Simona Cajhen, and Director of Finance and Administration Andreas Wallrodt welcomed all colleagues to the new school year and expressed their appreciation for the tremendous personal commitment of each and every member of staff. The enthusiasm and dedication of our teachers, educational support staff and administrative teams are what make ESM such a unique place of learning!
In his address, Anton Hrovath was delighted to point out that, for the first time in its history, ESM will exceed the milestone of 2,200 students this school year. This is a clear sign of the school’s continued popularity among families from all language sections. Over the years, ESM has developed into a true beacon in Bavaria’s educational landscape, attracting an increasing number of families with no direct connection to the European Patent Office. This broadening appeal enriches our school and makes everyday school life even more diverse, vibrant and exciting.
In 2026/27, both familiar and new educational priorities will shape everyday school life as well as our wide range of extracurricular projects. We want our students to become “active learners” who are able to work independently and confidently, take ownership of their learning and explore new topics for themselves. The exploration and critical discussion of “European values” will remain a key interdisciplinary priority. The results of this process of reflection will be presented by our students as part of the celebrations marking ESM’s 50th anniversary in 2027.
Sustainability will also remain a major focus of our school’s activities. In this area, ESM is already making considerable progress and can certainly serve as a source of inspiration within the European Schools system.
Other key competences will receive increased attention in 2026/27. These include fostering a lifelong learning mindset, developing the skills students need to navigate an increasingly AI-driven society, and supporting them in building self-confidence and a strong sense of responsibility in an ever more complex world.
Finally, Anton Hrovath invited everyone to look forward to the highlight of the ESM school year: the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of the European School Munich, taking place from 13 to 15 May 2027! With a wide range of activities, projects and celebrations, we want to mark this special milestone and celebrate what can rightly be described as ESM’s remarkable success story.
Anton Hrovath concluded with a thought often attributed to Socrates, which aptly reflects the supportive atmosphere and culture of appreciation at ESM:
“There is no disgrace in not knowing; the real disgrace is in being unwilling to learn.”
With this spirit in mind, ESM wishes all students, parents, teachers and administrative staff a successful 2026/27 school year filled with many joyful and rewarding moments.
Make the most of the unique opportunities our school has to offer!
