Kids Gone Global - The International School of Hamburg Podcast

Can a Non-Selective School Deliver the IB? How ISH Supports Every Learner

Can a Non-Selective School Deliver the IB? How the International School of Hamburg Supports Every Learner What if academic rigor didn’t depend on who a school admits—but on how well it supports every student once they arrive? In this episode of Kids Gone Global, Sarah Reich speaks with Catherine McNaughton, Head of Student Support Services at the International School of Hamburg, about how a non-selective IB World School helps a wide range of learners succeed. They explore early intervention, executive functioning, student wellbeing, and why strong support systems, not selective admissions, may be the key to maintaining academic rigor in today’s schools.

It’s Time to Talk About the Boys: Helping Teenage Boys Find Purpose and Belonging

In this episode of Kids Gone Global, host Sarah Reich discusses the ongoing challenges of modern masculinity with five educators from the International School of Hamburg. Panelists include Assistant Principal Andre Berry, teacher Josh Arnold, German teacher and sports coach Nils Hahnheiser, career counselor and life skills teacher André-Karl Belair, and scout leader and parent Seth Gannon. They explore how boys often disengage academically and emotionally, and the crucial role schools can play in providing structure, mentorship, and belonging. Highlighting the need for boys to feel needed, connected, and accountable, the discussion emphasizes the importance of real-life interactions and leadership development in and around school life to help boys grow into balanced and compassionate young men.

Beyond the Stage: What Theatre Teaches Us

In this episode of Kids Gone Global, we delve into the world of theater with two students, Nayeli and Vilasani, who share their experiences in the ISH 2026 theater production of 'Alice.' They reflect on what drew them back to the stage, the intense yet rewarding rehearsal process, and the surprising challenges they've faced while embodying their characters. The discussion highlights the unique atmosphere of school plays, the importance of teamwork, and how theater has helped them discover new strengths and talents. Nayeli and Vilasani also offer insights and advice for students considering auditioning in the future. This episode is a testament to the transformative power of the arts in fostering creativity, commitment, and confidence. ALICE runs from February 10 to 12, 2026. For more information about the production, visit: https://info.ishamburg.org/alice [https://info.ishamburg.org/alice]

The Middle Years Program in the Age of AI

In this episode of Kids Gone Global, host Sarah Reich speaks with Jackie Van der Steege Middle Years Programme Coordinator and Design Teacher at the International School of Hamburg (ISH), to discuss the unique challenges faced by today's middle schoolers. As students navigate a world dominated by smartphones, social media, and artificial intelligence, the IB Middle Years Program (MYP) offers a supportive and adaptive educational framework. Jackie shares her personal journey into international education, her passion for middle school learners, and how design and the MYP curriculum prepare students for real-world challenges.  They delve into the impacts of technology on young minds, the importance of critical and creative thinking, and the role of AI in modern education. This conversation also highlights how the MYP fosters lifelong learning, ethical use of AI, and the development of resilient and compassionate global citizens.

Season 2 Trailer

Welcome back to Kids Gone Global from the International School of Hamburg, the podcast that opens the door to the evolving world of international education. In Season 1, we explored the purpose of education through multiple lenses: play-based learning, digital innovation, the arts, outdoor experiences, and the many pathways students take as they grow into global citizens. In Season 2, we shift our focus to those navigating today’s global challenges firsthand. This season features conversations with teachers adapting to rapid change, school leaders making critical decisions, and students whose questions and curiosity push learning forward. Together, we explore the big issues shaping the future of teaching and learning: * How do educators stay grounded when the world feels unpredictable? * What does it mean to prepare young people for a future we can’t clearly define? * How do international schools create stability—and spark possibility—amid global uncertainty? Through honest dialogue and diverse perspectives, Kids Gone Global highlights education as one of society’s most powerful platforms for understanding, resilience, and meaningful action. A curated reading list for Season 2 is available on our website. Visit: https://info.ishamburg.org/podcast [https://info.ishamburg.org/podcast] Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode of Season 2.