Voices - Partner - Pinar

School: St.George’s School Düsseldorf Rhein-Ruhr

Academic excellence and rich experiences beyond the curriculum

The globally mobile Erturk family have lived in Istanbul, Moscow, Brussels, Cairo, and now Düsseldorf. With two daughters enrolled at St. George’s, one in her final year and the other in Middle School, Mrs Erturk is an enthusiastic advocate of the school. “Our daughters are very happy. They feel safe and they are also getting the necessary challenges so that they can grow.”

Reflecting on their experience, Mrs. Erturk emphasizes the invaluable role of British schooling in facilitating their integration into diverse cultures. "I believe that attending British Schools has provided continuity for our daughters amidst changing environments and has encouraged them to carry ideas into each new school."

Academic excellence is a top priority for Mrs. Erturk, who values the rigorous Cambridge IGCSE program as an ideal preparation for the challenging IB Diploma.

“IGCSE is an important foundation in developing the right way of working, effective study habits, and exam preparation.”

Beyond academics, the Erturk family appreciates the school's emphasis on holistic development. Both daughters actively participate in student leadership and societies, which Mrs. Erturk sees as vital preparation for real-world experiences, emphasizing collaboration and leadership skills. She comments, "This shows how the British system gets students ready for the real world. They learn how to be elected as representatives, how to present their ideas, how to work with others, and how to give and receive feedback. It’s a great environment."

Sports play a significant role in the Erturk family's school life, with the girls actively participating in football, volleyball, swimming, and cross-country running. Mrs. Erturk emphasizes the profound impact of sports in imparting invaluable life lessons, including teamwork, sportsmanship, and resilience.

"The sports teachers are exceptional, guiding students not only on how to win gracefully but also on how to handle defeat. These are lessons that cannot be taught in the classroom; they must be experienced."

Mrs. Erturk attributes the school's success to its excellent teachers, its focus on fairness and effective processes, fostering a strong sense of community and satisfaction among its students and parents.

"We are really very satisfied with the school. We feel listened to and part of the community."