Testimonials
Personal accounts from Haubinda
Life and learning at the Lietz Boarding School Village in Haubinda are as diverse as the children, teenagers, and families who are making their way here. The best way to describe everyday life in our village community is through the voices of those who experience it firsthand every day: students, parents, and alumni.
Testimonials
Kathrin Kern-Ludwig, mother
Open report
You don’t know if you have the right partner by your side until things get tough.
A virus has brought the whole world to a standstill and thrown everything that was once considered “normal” into disarray. Nine years ago, we decided to send our children (Maximilian, 15, and Karoline, 13) to school in Haubinda.
The Hermann-Lietz School in Haubinda—in the middle of nowhere. Surrounded by nature, safe and secure, yet free and international. Those were the main reasons behind our decision back then.
But then “Corona” hit, and suddenly our kids were out of school by order of the government. It was unimaginable and a real challenge for us as a family. Two adults working from home and two teenagers out of school—what on earth was going to happen?!
Fortunately, we made the right decision nine years ago. Unlike most other schools, the Hermann-Lietz School in Haubinda simply reinvented itself during these unusual times. If the children can’t come to school, the school will simply go to the children. Inboxes overflowing with assignments that aren’t even checked promptly—that wasn’t the case at the Hermann-Lietz-Schule. After a brief trial period before the Easter break, classes for our children simply went online. Since then, the teachers have been learning alongside our children how school can work online. For us as parents, this is an indescribable relief.
Of course, not everything goes perfectly at first when you’re breaking new ground. Sometimes the technology fails, or a teacher might be a bit overambitious with the amount of homework in their subject. That has happened, but it was never a big deal, because at Haubinda we practice the “short path” approach. We simply talk to each other when something comes up. Teachers and parents (most of them, at least) see themselves as partners who accompany the children on their journey together for a while. We trust each other, and that makes a big difference.
If there is one positive thing to be found in this unspeakable COVID-19 crisis, it is this:
- Our children have learned that computers, tablets, and other devices are good for more than just entertainment,
- Our teachers have learned that new media aren’t the devil’s work, but rather open up new possibilities,
- We parents have learned that even though we like to think we know better, we aren’t teachers after all—and school is a wonderful thing!
Together, we’ve broken new ground and are moving forward. It’s an experience that’s especially important for our children. Trying things out, failing, learning how to do things differently, and moving on… a resilience that has been cultivated here, mostly without us even realizing it.
“Somewhere in the middle of nowhere,” it just works. Clearly, it’s thanks to the enduring spirit of the school’s founder, Hermann Lietz, who believed in finding a way even when the going gets tough.
For that, we—as parents and as a family—would like to take this opportunity to say a heartfelt THANK YOU!
Kathrin Kern-Ludwig
Stella Quitadamo, student
Open report
I’m from Switzerland and have been at Haubinda since 6th grade. My parents were often away on business trips abroad for long periods of time. My mother and I looked at various boarding schools, but in the end we chose Haubinda. I liked the school’s philosophy of “head, heart, and hand” and the range of clubs—that’s what ultimately won me over. In 7th grade, I chose the elective “Performing and Design.” That subject and music are my two favorite classes. I also love the choir. We have several big performances every year. The preparations are very exhausting, but once I’m on stage, all the effort is forgotten. I love being on stage. I’m especially proud that I’ve already been able to play the lead role in two plays. Haubinda is a place where I’ve been able to make friends from all over the world.
Georg Fiedler, student
Georg Fiedler, student
I’ve been attending school in Haubinda since the beginning of third grade. After two trial days, my parents and I decided that I would go to Haubinda. On my very first day, I made two friends whom I still have today. I’m interested in nature, and at Haubinda I can really explore that through the clubs. Before I came here, I went to a public school. There were 29 of us in the class. Things could get pretty chaotic at times. It wasn’t always easy to follow the lessons there. It’s completely different in the small classes at Haubinda. When I finish school, I’d like to spend a year in New Zealand and get to know the country through a work-and-travel program. Haubinda is a village where everyone knows everyone else.
Christian Becker, student
Open report
I’ve been at the boarding school in Haubinda since 6th grade—I’m now in 11th grade at the technical high school. I came to the boarding school because there were problems at home. Haubinda gave me the chance to get my life back on track. At first, it felt strange to be away from home, and it took me a while to get used to boarding school. But now, living at the boarding school feels completely normal. When I have free time, I’m often outside or playing soccer. Actually, life at the boarding school is very relaxed. Haubinda is a place where you can learn how to interact with others and how to properly integrate into a community.
Johannes Luther, student
Open report
I have been attending Hermann-Lietz-Schule as a day student since first grade. My sister also attended this school and graduated from 10th grade a few years ago. I am currently enrolled in the technical track of the vocational high school. After earning my vocational diploma, I would like to study mechanical engineering. My passion for metal and construction was sparked in Haubinda. After working for two years in the metal guild, I knew for sure that I wanted to do something with metal. I’m glad that Haubinda gave me the opportunity to try out different fields. For example, I was able to learn about woodworking, agriculture, and computer science—but metal fascinated me the most. Even though I take the bus home every day, Haubinda has become my second home.
Sandy Chasse, student
Open report
I attended the boarding school in Haubinda from fourth through tenth grade. After that, I went to the U.S. for a year on a student exchange program. I’ve been back here since eleventh grade to take my Abitur exams. What I like about the classes are the small class sizes and the fact that I get help from my classmates and teachers whenever I need it. I love the close-knit community at the boarding school. Everything is very family-like. We teach each other—the older students teach the younger ones, but sometimes it’s the other way around. The school has inspired me to become a teacher after I graduate. Maybe I’ll come back to Haubinda as a student teacher. For me, Haubinda is more than just a school—Haubinda is a way of life.
Leonie Wagner, former student
Open report
I attended a public high school in Bavaria until 8th grade. There were 32 students in my class back then—individualized instruction wasn’t really possible. A friend told me about Haubinda. On my first visit, I was amazed by the small class sizes. I then transferred to Haubinda in 9th grade and earned my vocational diploma four years later. I really enjoyed the internships in 11th grade. After that, it was clear to me what I wanted to do next. As I started seeing success at Haubinda, I became more determined and self-confident. It was great that I was able to make so many international friends. That makes it easier for me to understand other cultures. I really enjoyed my time at Haubinda. The classes at the FOS give me many advantages for my dual degree program.
Béatrice Boulay-Benchert, mother
Open report
Our son is in his fourth year at Haubinda. Before that, he attended a public school. On his teacher’s recommendation, he was supposed to go on to a secondary school. There were about 30 students in his class. The lessons were just “rushed through.” His quality of life suffered significantly from the daily grind at school. Then we heard about Haubinda. For Dominik, it was clearly the best decision.
Jörg Wagner, father
Open report
We were looking for an alternative for our three children. The kids didn’t feel comfortable at their old school, and we weren’t satisfied with the school’s overall approach. It’s important to us that the school lays a solid foundation for our children’s future. After researching online and making our first visit to Haubinda, we were certain this was the right place. At Haubinda, a lot is done to support individual development and nurture talents. The children can learn without pressure. We’re glad we found Haubinda. My wife and I have often recommended this school to friends and acquaintances.
Michael Boulay-Benchert, father
Open report
Dominik has a deep passion for crafts and agriculture, but he absolutely refused to attend a boarding school. After a consultation, he was immediately enthusiastic about Haubinda. For various reasons, we nevertheless enrolled him “only” as a day student, which means we drive about 80 kilometers back and forth every day. We have never regretted this decision.
Ferenc Barbay, student
Open report
I’ve been at Haubinda for four years. Before that, I attended a public school in Munich. A friend told me about this boarding school, and I was totally thrilled with it right from the start. Here, we live together with our friends, can support one another, and pursue shared hobbies. The sense of community is incredibly strong. The small class sizes allow my teachers to address my specific problems and difficulties in certain subjects on an individual basis. I also feel that the lessons go into much greater depth. Compared to before, I’ve managed to improve my grade point average by a full two grades. To be honest, I never would have thought I’d pass the Abitur before. My relationship with my parents has also definitely improved. My goal is to join the KSK (Special Forces Command) after I finish school. To do that, I need a fitness rating of 1.
Leonhardt Pirner, student
Open report
I’ve been at Haubinda for six years now, and I have to say that what I love most is the sense of community. The close-knit atmosphere is great—even if you’re still “new,” you’re welcomed into the group in no time. I also think the activities here are fantastic; I’m in the choir and the student council. Even though it’s a boarding school, you can organize your day however you like and pursue your interests and hobbies.
Luisa Deyerling, student
Open report
What I really love about Haubinda is its international atmosphere: we have students from Russia, China, and Switzerland, and you can learn so much from them, both linguistically and culturally. Outside of school hours, there are so many clubs that you can fully pursue your hobbies. I’m in the baking club and the choir; you can go horseback riding, and there are lots of different animals. It’s also great that you make so many friends—from all over Germany. So during the holidays, I’ll be visiting my classmates and getting to see a bit of Germany along the way.
Julius Stang, former student
Open report
My time at Haubinda has shaped my life. I wasn’t a particularly good student at the public school; I just didn’t get along with the teachers. At the boarding school, everything suddenly changed: that’s where I really started to thrive. Thanks to the individualized support, I discovered my strengths and developed self-confidence.
Michael Wißler, father
Open report
I had a very enriching school experience at the school. I wanted my children to have the same wonderful experience: Here, in-depth learning fosters lasting knowledge and ensures long-term academic success. Practical projects help develop social skills, which in turn helps students build their personal abilities.
Alexander Wißler, former student
Open report
I had an unforgettable time at Haubinda. What makes it special is its agricultural focus. The campus has a woodshop, a garden, and lots of animals that the students help take care of. The sense of camaraderie between students and teachers is wonderful; it definitely stems from the close-knit community—it’s like a small village.
Video messages from parents and alumni
Felix Möller, a former student – on his seven years at Haubinda and his involvement with the boarding school
Personal Invitation – Students from Haubinda Share Insights into Their School and Extracurricular Activities
Zhi Cheng Wei (10th-grade student) – Chinese interview conducted as part of a school project, featuring aerial photographs by Boyuan Chen (12th grade)
Cäcilie Diezel, a preschool teacher – enrolls her daughter and describes how school and free time work together perfectly
Steven Langbein, a father, hopes his daughter will attend school in Haubinda starting in elementary school
The Meng family – their son wants to earn his high school diploma at a vocational high school
Jasmin Richter, a student from Schleusingen – enthusiastic about the small class sizes and the craft guilds
Carolin Schüller, a mother, explains why her family chose Haubinda
The Richter Family – About School and Extracurricular Activities
Tanja Hartmann, a mother, already hopes her 14-month-old son will attend school in Haubinda
Marzella Stadler, a mother from Regensburg – on the many opportunities at the boarding school village
The Zeilz family – would like to send their son Hannes to the elementary school in Haubinda
Frank Ulrich, father – talks about the visit with his son Maxi
Rena Müller, a mother—following her younger daughter’s positive experience, her older daughter is now set to transfer to Haubinda as well
The Bock family from Coburg – impressed by the boarding school’s close connection to nature
Mike Waselowski, a father, is looking for an alternative school system for his son
Mr. Kersten, father – on his positive first impression
Video messages from teachers and staff
Meika Löser, educator – on her work as a dorm mother at the boarding school
Manuel Both, Technical Director – on his work on the 90-hectare site and the students’ involvement
More comments on the boarding school village
During parent-teacher conferences, some parents were willing to share their experiences with the Hermann-Lietz School in Haubinda.