German European School Manila vs The Beacon Academy

	G German European School Manila Manila, Philippines	T The Beacon Academy Manila, Philippines
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ₱415,533 - 1,138,283	Fees / year ₱514,920 - 1,435,800
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 12 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational, Online/Hybrid
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme), Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), German Curriculum, British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE	Curriculum IB (MYP), IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 360	Pupils —
Typical class size	Typical class size 13	Typical class size 15
Instruction language	Instruction language German, English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1980	Opened 2009
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location GESM is on the Eurocampus at 75 Swaziland Street, Better Living Subdivision, Parañaque City, 1711, Metro Manila, Philippines. The two-hectare campus is shared with the Lycée Français de Manille and is part of the European International School complex on Eurocampus. The location places the school in southern Metro Manila with campus facilities that serve both schools on the same site.	Location The Beacon Academy sits on a nine-hectare campus in Biñan, Laguna, Philippines. The campus address is Cecilia Araneta Parkway, Biñan, Laguna 4024. It is located about 45 minutes south of Metro Manila and sits near Ayala Westgrove's Beacon (South) Gate, Sevina Park, and Broadfield Estate. Access is via the Mamplasan, Santa Rosa, or Eton exits from the South Super Highway.
Stages	Stages GESM offers Kindergarten through Grade 12. From Kindergarten to Grade 10, students are enrolled in either the German Section or the English International Section; Grades 11–12 offer the IB Diploma Programme (DP) or the IB Career-related Programme (CP), taught in English and German.	Stages The Beacon Academy serves students in Grades 7–12. It offers the IB Middle Years Programme (Grades 7–10) and the IB Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12).
School type	School type GESM is a co-educational, secular, non-profit international day school. It operates on a two-section model (German and International) and does not provide boarding facilities.	School type Independent, non-profit, co-educational IB World School. It operates as a day school with no boarding facilities publicly described.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support GESM runs an Additional Needs Programme (ANP) to support students who require extra help beyond regular classroom instruction. Identification is through assessments, teacher observations, and family consultations. Support includes in-class or small-group/individual sessions and modified goals, with placement decided case-by-case; some support may incur additional fees.	Additional learning support The school provides a Learning Support Program to help students cope with academic demands. It includes Supervised Study Hall for DP and MYP after class, plus Academic Consultations and resources for teachers to support identified students in mainstream classes.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation GESM is a German government-recognized school abroad and is part of the network of German Schools Abroad; it is also a UNESCO Associated School. This reflects its official German government oversight and international accreditation.	Country affiliation No formal country-specific affiliation is published. The Academy is an IB World School operating in the Philippines.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation GESM operates as a secular institution with no religious denomination affiliation. Ethics is mandatory, and students or parents may opt for Religion as an alternative.	Religious affiliation There is no religious affiliation stated; the school presents itself as rooted in Philippine culture and global-minded education.
School day structure	School day structure All classes start at 7:30am. Kindergarten through Primary finish at 2:00pm each day; Secondary typically finishes at 2:00pm on most days and 3:30pm on some days. Afternoon clubs run 2:00pm–3:30pm, and supervised after‑care is available for Primary students until 3:30pm; a school bus service is available.	School day structure End of the school day is around 3:00 PM, with a 30-minute gap before co-curricular activities begin at 3:30 PM. DP students have designated free periods for Supervised Study Hall right after class, coordinated by the Diploma Programme Coordinator.
Bus service details	Bus service details GESM outsources accredited bus providers for door‑to‑door transport with a bus attendant on each vehicle. Billing is arranged directly between families and the bus companies. Routes cover numerous areas around Makati, Parañaque, Alabang, and beyond, with published quarterly rates by area; current rates can be confirmed by the school. The transportation page lists area coverage and corresponding providers.	Bus service details The Beacon Academy offers bus service from Taguig and Rockwell to the Biñan campus for students and faculty. Students may also register their own cars, and the Student Services Office can assist with carpools.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Membership and one‑time charges - Membership fee (German School Association Manila): €150, charged annually only for families who elect membership. - Entrance fee (new enrollee, all grade levels): PHP 130,000, one‑time and non‑refundable. - Refundable deposit (new enrollee, all grade levels): PHP 130,000; no interest is paid on the deposit. The deposit is refunded in full upon withdrawal provided there are no outstanding dues and the school clearance process is completed. Tuition fees (annual and per‑term / quarterly): - Kindergarten 1 (age 3): Annual Php 415,533. Quarterly (annual ÷ 4): Php 103,883.25. - Kindergarten 2 (age 4): Annual Php 415,533. Quarterly: Php 103,883.25. - Kindergarten 3 (age 5): Annual Php 583,573. Quarterly: Php 145,893.25. - Grade 1: Annual Php 807,512. Quarterly: Php 201,878.00. - Grade 2: Annual Php 807,512. Quarterly: Php 201,878.00. - Grade 3: Annual Php 807,512. Quarterly: Php 201,878.00. - Grade 4: Annual Php 807,512. Quarterly: Php 201,878.00. - Grade 5: Annual Php 898,447. Quarterly: Php 224,611.75. - Grade 6: Annual Php 898,447. Quarterly: Php 224,611.75. - Grade 7: Annual Php 898,447. Quarterly: Php 224,611.75. - Grade 8: Annual Php 898,447. Quarterly: Php 224,611.75. - Grade 9: Annual Php 945,138. Quarterly: Php 236,284.50. - Grade 10: Annual Php 945,138. Quarterly: Php 236,284.50. - Grade 11: Annual Php 1,138,283. Quarterly: Php 284,570.75. - Grade 12: Annual Php 1,138,283. Quarterly: Php 284,570.75. First‑year total (example for new enrolment) - For every new enrollee the one‑time entrance fee (PHP 130,000) and the refundable deposit (PHP 130,000) apply in the first year in addition to the annual tuition and any association/membership contributions. For example, the published first‑year total for Kindergarten 1 (including the one‑time entrance and deposit and the published euro/ peso components) is Php 675,533. This example and the tuition components are taken from the school's published 2025–2026 fee schedule. Billing schedule and payment terms - The school offers a quarterly payment option. Typical due dates for quarterly payments are: August 1, November 1, February 1, and May 1. Non‑payment resulting in outstanding tuition arrears at the end of the school year prevents a student from qualifying for enrollment in the following school year until outstanding obligations are settled. - The accounting office issues an invoice upon confirmation of admission that indicates amounts due and payment deadlines. Payment currencies and payment methods - Tuition and contributions are published in Euro and Philippine Peso; invoicing requires payment in both currencies (Euro and Peso). Families without access to Euro may pay the Euro portion in Peso using the school's set exchange rate shown on the billing. - Accepted methods for settling invoices (as stated for admissions invoices) are cash, cheque, or bank transfer; the invoice contains the payment details. Credit‑card payment is not listed in the admissions payment information. Boarding / overnight accommodation - German European School Manila is a non‑profit day school; there are no boarding fees because boarding is not provided. Other costs and additional fees - The Peso tuition component includes a class fund contribution of PHP 1,000 per student. Additional costs not covered in the published tuition commonly include transportation, canteen service, school clothing/uniforms, most field trips, and certain extracurricular activities. Additional examination fees may apply: IGCSE examination fees for English‑section students and IB examination/registration fees depending on courses taken. Refunds and forfeiture - The entrance fee (PHP 130,000) is explicitly non‑refundable. The refundable deposit (PHP 130,000) is refunded in full upon permanent withdrawal provided all dues have been paid, borrowed school property has been returned undamaged, and the student clearance process is completed. Outstanding tuition or other unpaid fees will prevent refund until accounts are fully settled.	Fee details Application and Admissions Fees - Admissions processing (application) fee: PHP 2,500 (non-refundable). - Reservation fee (to hold an accepted student's slot): PHP 75,000 per child (applies to tuition due; non-refundable if the student subsequently withdraws). Payment due within two weeks of receipt of an offer or continuing enrollment letter. - Matriculation fee (new students only): PHP 100,000 (one-time, non-refundable). - Additional immigration charge for certain foreign applicants: Special Study Permit fee PHP 15,000 where applicable. Tuition fees — structure and how they are billed - Tuition is billed as two components: a USD component and a PHP component. You will be billed for both the USD amount PLUS the PHP amount. The school publishes both Annual and Semestral payment options. Forex used in published examples is USD 1 = PHP 58 (subject to change). Annual payment (standard rates) - Grades 7–8: USD 3,200 plus PHP 550,000 — tuition (PHP) shown as PHP 735,600. Capital Development Fee (CDF) option shown: PHP 500,000 (one-time refundable) or PHP 75,000 (non-refundable annual option). Matriculation PHP 100,000 (one-time). Miscellaneous fee PHP 29,000 (per year). Example Year 1 total shown: PHP 1,364,600; Year 2+ payout shown: PHP 801,380. - Grades 9–10: USD 3,300 plus PHP 579,800 — tuition (PHP) shown as PHP 771,200. CDF PHP 500,000 (one-time refundable) or PHP 75,000 (non-refundable annual option). Matriculation PHP 100,000 (one-time). Miscellaneous fee PHP 29,000 (per year). Example Year 1 total shown: PHP 1,400,200; Year 2+ payout shown: PHP 838,760. - Grades 11–12: USD 3,400 plus PHP 609,600 — tuition (PHP) shown as PHP 806,800. CDF PHP 500,000 (one-time refundable) or PHP 75,000 (non-refundable annual option). Matriculation PHP 100,000 (one-time). Miscellaneous fee PHP 29,000 (per year). Example Year 1 total shown: PHP 1,435,800; Year 2+ payout shown: PHP 876,140. Semestral payment (standard rates, per semester) - Grades 7–8: USD 1,760 plus PHP 302,500 — tuition (PHP) shown as PHP 404,580. CDF PHP 500,000 (one-time refundable) or PHP 75,000 (non-refundable annual option). Matriculation PHP 100,000 (one-time). Miscellaneous fee PHP 29,000 (per year). Example Year 1 total shown (with CDF included): PHP 1,438,160; Year 2+ payout shown: PHP 878,618. - Grades 9–10: USD 1,820 plus PHP 319,000 — tuition (PHP) shown as PHP 424,560. CDF and other deposits as above. Example Year 1 total shown: PHP 1,478,120; Year 2+ payout shown: PHP 920,576. - Grades 11–12: USD 1,870 plus PHP 336,000 — tuition (PHP) shown as PHP 444,460. CDF and other deposits as above. Example Year 1 total shown: PHP 1,517,920; Year 2+ payout shown: PHP 962,366. Early Advantage special tuition (incoming Grades 7 & 8) - Early Advantage (Annual) Option A: USD 2,240 plus PHP 385,000 — tuition (PHP) shown as PHP 514,920. CDF Option shown as PHP 250,000 (one-time). Matriculation (reduced) PHP 50,000 (one-time). Miscellaneous fee PHP 29,000 (per year). Year 1 total example shown: PHP 843,920; Year 2+ payout shown: PHP 580,700. - Early Advantage (Annual) Option B: USD 2,240 plus PHP 385,000 — tuition (PHP) shown as PHP 514,920. CDF Option shown as PHP 75,000 (4‑year payout). Matriculation PHP 50,000 (one-time). Miscellaneous fee PHP 29,000 (per year). Year 1 total example shown: PHP 668,920; Year 2+ payout shown: PHP 655,700. - Early Advantage (Semestral) Option A and B are also published with analogous USD + PHP components and the same CDF / matriculation alternatives; Year 1 and Year 2+ totals are shown in the school's admissions guide packet. Other recurring and one-time fees - Miscellaneous fee: PHP 29,000 per child per year. This covers library online resources, clinic services, curricular activities and trips, wellness initiatives, blended learning technology, one official ID, and one yearbook. Miscellaneous fees are non-refundable. - Capital Development Fee (CDF): two choices — refundable option PHP 500,000 paid at the start of tenure (refunded in full when the student graduates or exits the Academy; no interest), or a non-refundable annual option PHP 75,000 paid each academic year for the student's stay. CDF refunds are processed within forty‑five (45) days from the end of the applicable school year and upon completion of school clearance forms when applicable. - Matriculation fee: PHP 100,000 (one-time) for new students (non-refundable). Billing schedule and payment terms - Billing timing: Tuition and fees are billed in June. For Annual payments and the 1st semester payment, amounts are due on the 1st of July. The 2nd semester payment is due on the 1st of December. If a due date falls on a non-business day, it is extended to the next business day. Failure to pay may result in the loss of the student's slot. - Accepted payment methods and instructions: Parents are encouraged to remit payments by bank transfer to the Academy's bank accounts (Bank of the Philippine Islands). Payments via checks are accepted; cash payments are strongly discouraged. The admissions packet references a QR payment option for the admissions processing fee and provides bank account details for transfers. For finance queries contact the Finance Office directly (contact details published in the admissions packet). Refund and withdrawal policy - Withdrawal refunds for tuition: If a student formally withdraws, tuition refunds (for the term) are charged as follows: within the first week of classes at the start of the school year — 10% of the total amount for the term; within the second week — 20% of the total amount for the term; withdrawal after the second week may result in the full charge of school fees for that term. Miscellaneous and other school fees are non‑refundable regardless of withdrawal timing. Depending on the chosen CDF option, the Capital Development Fee may or may not be refundable. Academic and other school records will not be released until all financial obligations are settled. - CDF refund timing: Refunds of refundable CDF deposits are processed within forty‑five (45) days from the end of the applicable school year and upon completion of school clearance forms where applicable. Boarding fees - Boarding fees: Not applicable. The Academy's admissions materials and fee schedules list day-school tuition, deposits, and ancillary fees but do not include any boarding program fees. Other costs commonly incurred (examples referenced in materials) - Official uniform, textbooks, school supplies, extracurricular activity fees, external examination fees, and optional trips or off-campus activities are additional to the fees listed above and may be billed separately under miscellaneous or activity charges as applicable. The miscellaneous fee partially subsidizes certain activities, but some items (uniforms, optional trips, certain external exam fees) are typically charged separately.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements GESM is a day school with no boarding facilities. A school bus service is available on request, capable of picking up and dropping off at the doorstep to suit family needs. Families should confirm routes and availability with Admissions.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement There is no formal uniform requirement. Students may wear regular everyday clothing, with GESM sweaters and shirts available for purchase and to be worn on field trips or as directed by staff.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options The canteen is operated by Kitchen City and offers a varied menu that includes proteins, salads, snacks and vegetarian meals. Parents can pre‑order meals via the Kitchen City app, and students pay on site with a Meal Card that can be reloaded by parents online.	Food options The cafeteria offers breakfast, snacks, and lunch during recess and lunch periods. The school works with a food provider to plan a variety of healthy meals and snacks for students.
House system	House system GESM uses a House System. In English Primary there are four houses: Bremen, Berlin, Münster and Frankfurt. The Grundschule will have two houses. Secondary houses are named after Philippine islands and animals: Bohol Sharks, Boracay Scorpions, Cebu Cobras and Palawan Eagles. House activities include sports, quizzes and charity drives, with House Leaders organizing activities and a year-end House Cup.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership GESM is a non‑profit organisation governed by a volunteer Board of Directors elected by the German School Association Manila (GSA). The Board oversees strategic priorities, budget and major projects, while day‑to‑day management is led by the Head of School. GESM forms the European International School, Inc. (EIS) together with Lycée Français de Manille, with the GSA acting as liaison with authorities.	Governance and ownership The Beacon Academy is operated by The Beacon Academy Inc. It is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School offering the IB Middle Years Programme (Grades 7-10) and the IB Diploma Programme (Grades 11-12), and is accredited by the Philippine Department of Education.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details From early years (Kindergarten and Vorschule) through Grade 10, German European School Manila runs two parallel sections defined largely by medium of instruction: German and English. The German section follows a German curriculum, while the English section uses English-language instruction with English Early Years and English Primary following the IB Primary Years Programme, and a Cambridge IGCSE pathway in secondary. In Grades 5–10, the German stream leads to Realschulabschluss or Hauptschulabschluss after Grade 9 or 10, while the English secondary stream concludes with IGCSE in Grade 10 and DSD I in Grade 9. In Grades 11–12, both streams converge on the International Baccalaureate Senior Years, offering the IB Diploma Programme (DP) or the IB Career-related Programme (CP) with instruction in English and German. The IB Diploma Programme comprises six subjects (one from groups 1–5 and a sixth from group 6 or another from 1–5), with a mix of Higher Level and Standard Level courses and core requirements of Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, and Creativity, Action, Service. GESM positions itself as multilingual and European/international in scope, part of the EuroCampus network, and aligned with IB and German-European standards.	Curriculum details The Beacon Academy in Biñan, Laguna, is an International Baccalaureate World School offering the IB Middle Years Programme (Grades 7–10) and the IB Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12), with accreditation by the Philippine Department of Education. The MYP for Grades 7–10 comprises eight subject groups: Language and Literature (English), Language Acquisition (Mandarin or Spanish), Filipino, Humanities, Mathematics, Sciences, Arts, and Technology, and is guided by intercultural awareness, holistic learning, and the five Areas of Interaction; Grade 10 includes the MYP Personal Project, with Grade 9–10 also incorporating Community and Service and, in some years, Comparative Religion (Grade 9) or Philosophy (Grade 10). In Grades 11–12, the Diploma Programme uses six subject groups (Studies in Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and the Arts) plus the DP Core: Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, Service, all aimed at university readiness; extensive counseling supports students before selecting DP courses. The Beacon Academy employs inquiry-based teaching and the Harkness Method across programs, with English as the language of instruction and a learner-centered approach that ties learning to the Filipino context. The campus is located on a nine-hectare site in Binan with integrated facilities, and the school emphasizes college readiness through counseling within its internationally oriented curriculum.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning GESM supports social and emotional learning (SEL) through a dedicated guidance counsellor and a strong focus on students' social-emotional development across both German and English sections, including anti-bullying initiatives and empathy-focused programming.	Social & emotional learning The Beacon Academy integrates social-emotional learning through the International Baccalaureate (IB) Learner Profile, guiding students to be caring, balanced, and reflective individuals. The school explicitly adopts the ten IB Learner Profile attributes to shape student development across knowledge, communication, and interpersonal skills. Caring emphasizes empathy and service to others, while Balanced emphasizes well-being across intellectual, physical, spiritual, and emotional domains. Service as Action (MYP) and Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) (DP) provide structured opportunities for community service and personal growth that support SEL. The Harkness Method and inquiry-based learning foster collaborative, respectful dialogue, while the campus design promotes wellness with ample light, space, and fresh air.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The school runs an Additional Needs Programme (ANP) with a multidisciplinary Student Support Team and Learning Support Plans, and can accommodate mild to moderate intellectual or cognitive impairment, behavioural or emotional difficulties, Specific Learning Disability, Executive Functioning deficits, high-functioning ASD, and Social-Communication Disorder.	Special educational needs (SEN) The Beacon Academy does not publicly disclose information regarding special educational needs (SEN) provision in its published materials. The organizational profile lists a Dean of Students as part of the leadership, indicating welfare responsibilities but does not describe SEN staffing or programs. The school presents itself as an IB World School offering MYP and DP as a mainstream program, with accreditations from the Philippine Department of Education and the IB, and no explicit SEN unit is described. Accreditations and program descriptions emphasize IB and general student welfare rather than SEN-specific services. Based on published materials, there is no publicly disclosed SEN facility or dedicated SEN staff.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The school states that mother tongue and foreign language programmes are available from pre-school, and the English Section Access and Inclusion Policy confirms inclusive support for learners, though a dedicated, stand-alone EAL program is not publicly disclosed.	English as an additional language The Beacon Academy offers Language Acquisition courses in Mandarin and Spanish for the Middle Years Programme, and Filipino language work is included in the Diploma Programme. Public materials do not describe a dedicated EAL (English as an Additional Language) program or staffing for English language learners. The IB Learner Profile highlights the aim of effective communication in more than one language. Language offerings are presented as part of IB subject groups (e.g., Mandarin, Spanish, Filipino) rather than as a separate EAL support service. Therefore, public information does not specify a formal EAL program.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported by the on-site School Clinic, which has two full-time nurses and offers health counseling and wellbeing-focused services, and guidance-led SEL activities such as anti-bullying and empathy programs.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is addressed through the IB emphasis on Balance, which calls for balancing intellectual, physical, spiritual, and emotional aspects to achieve well-being for oneself and others. The campus is designed with ample light, space, and fresh air to promote wellness and enhance learning. Caring, as part of the IB profile, supports empathy and social connectedness, contributing to students' emotional health. The School Life offering—including after-school clubs and student-led activities—supports social-emotional development and personal leadership. Together, IB learning, campus design, and student activities contribute to a holistic approach to mental wellbeing.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding and child protection are addressed with a zero-tolerance policy for abuse, plus 24/7 campus security monitoring and a school clinic, with clear procedures in place for safeguarding concerns.	Safeguarding The Beacon Academy Philippines does not publicly disclose safeguarding and child protection policies in its published materials. The organizational structure includes a Dean of Students, indicating welfare oversight, but no publicly described safeguarding framework is detailed. Accreditations listed (IB and DepEd) do not provide safeguarding policy specifics. Public contact channels for inquiries exist (e.g., admissions and student services), which may be used to request safeguarding information. Therefore, publicly accessible information about safeguarding is not disclosed on the published materials.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview GESM shares the Eurocampus with the Lycée Français de Manille on a two-hectare campus in Parañaque. The GESM library is part of the Eurocampus Library Manila, offering over 30,000 items and an eight-computer Library Extension with an interactive screen. The science program is supported by two modern laboratories for biology, chemistry and physics, installed with German equipment two years ago and expanded as needed. The campus includes a garden with hydroponics and aquaponics and a grass-turfed play area added in 2024, plus an on-site auditorium used for exhibitions and performances. The canteen is operated by Kitchen City, the clinic has two full-time nurses with Lifeline support, and a swimming pool on the Eurocampus is used for school activities and events.	Facilities overview The Beacon Academy is located on a nine-hectare green campus in Biñan, Laguna. It offers integrated performance, library, laboratory, and athletic facilities to support the IB program in a peaceful, distraction-free environment. The campus comprises two buildings and 13 classrooms. It includes three laboratories, a library, an auditorium, and a visual arts gallery, along with spaces for the arts and athletics. There are dedicated spaces for creative and physical activities, including a cafeteria, a football field, an Olympic-sized pool, a gymnasium, a bouldering room, a wood-working workshop, a fitness room, and a dance studio.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities On the Eurocampus, shared sports facilities include two swimming pools, a football field, a gymnasium, a running track, and additional outdoor play spaces, all part of the European International School campus. These facilities are available for GESM and LFM activities and events.	Sports facilities The athletic facilities include a football field, an Olympic-sized pool, a gymnasium, and a bouldering room. A dance studio and a fitness room support movement-based activities and physical education. Additional spaces support sports and recreation, contributing to a well-rounded physical education program. The facilities are designed to accommodate a range of team and individual activities.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The GESM Library is part of the Eurocampus Library Manila, with over 30,000 articles and a Library Extension featuring eight computers and an interactive screen; the library is open weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The science program is supported by two modern laboratories for biology, chemistry and physics, installed with German equipment two years ago and expanded annually. An auditorium on the Eurocampus serves as a venue for exhibitions and performances, and the on-site canteen is operated by Kitchen City with pre-order and meal-card options. The clinic provides two full-time nurses and Lifeline support for emergencies.	Academic facilities There are three laboratories on campus for science learning. A dedicated library supports research and independent study. There are 13 classrooms across two buildings to accommodate IB courses and collaborative work. There are 13 offices supporting administration and student services.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The campus supports a range of extracurricular activities, including cross-grade science events such as the Eurocampus Science Fair hosted by GESM Grade 11. Visual arts exhibitions are held in the Eurocampus Auditorium, such as the Meraki exhibition. The school garden supports science and sustainability projects, including hydroponics and aquaponics, and there are parent engagement events around the garden. The Eurocampus pool hosts events like the annual 24-hour Swim Marathon.	Extra curricular facilities The Beacon Academy supports student-led, faculty-mentored after-school clubs and outreach programs. Arts and performance are integrated into student life, with two art studios, a music room, a visual arts gallery, an auditorium, and a dance studio. Athletic and performance spaces enable after-school activities across arts and sports, including a football field, Olympic-sized pool, gymnasium, and bouldering room. The cafeteria provides a social hub for breaks and events. The auditorium and gallery spaces offer opportunities for exhibitions and performances.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History GESM began as José Rizal School, opening on August 5, 1980. It was officially recognised as a German School abroad by German authorities in 1984. In 1992, the German School Manila joined with the Lycée Français de Manille to form Eurocampus on a shared two-hectare campus in Parañaque. In 2002, the European International School, Inc. was created to govern both DSM and LFM, and in 2005 the International Section opened and the school adopted the name German European School Manila. A master-plan modernization began in 2013, with new facilities completed by 2014 and further expansions through the late 2010s; IGCSE examinations began in 2014, DSD I exams followed in 2014, DSD II in 2018, UNESCO recognition in 2019, and the IB Career-Related Programme was introduced in 2021.	History The Beacon Academy was founded in 2009 by architect Leandro Locsin Jr. and his wife, Mailin Paterno-Locsin. It was established to serve as the high school extension of its sister school, the Beacon School in Makati, with the aim of providing an internationally recognized curriculum rooted in Filipino values. The campus opened in August 2010 in Biñan, Laguna, in the company of education and local government guests, and Leandro Locsin Jr. later served as the board chairman. The Academy was accredited by the International Baccalaureate in 2011 to deliver the full IB continuum (Middle Years Programme for Grades 7–10 and Diploma Programme for Grades 11–12). The campus sits on land donated by the Locsin family on a nine-hectare property in Biñan, Laguna, about 40–45 minutes south of Metro Manila. The Beacon Academy is a sister school of the Beacon School in Makati and brands itself as an international school rooted in Filipino culture and ethos.
Community	Community GESM is a non-profit, international and multilingual day school in Manila serving Kindergarten to Grade 12, with two parallel sections defined mainly by medium of instruction: German or English. The school offers the GIB, the IB Diploma Programme (DP), and the IB Career-related Programme (CP) in Grades 11–12. Its community comprises students and staff from about fifty countries, with English, German, French and Filipino omnipresent on campus. Recent student activities include projects such as the Cinematics Club film and a Model United Nations (MUN) simulation that foster international collaboration and debate.	Community The Beacon Academy Philippines describes its community as diverse, inclusive, and participatory, with a broad range of students from different backgrounds. The student body is mainly Filipino, with foreign-based faculty contributing to an international dimension within a Filipino context. The school emphasizes a sense of community and inclusivity through its programs and student life, including a student publication and opportunities to participate in international activities such as Model United Nations and World Scholar's Cup. Public materials also highlight events that foster community life, such as school-wide celebrations and activities that bring families into the campus community.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association GESM's governance framework includes the German School Association (GSA) and the Gesamtelternbeirat, the Parent Council (GEB). Families may join the GSA during enrollment by paying an annual membership fee and submitting an application, and GSA members elect the Board of Directors and vote on major school matters at the AGM. The Board of Directors consists of parent volunteers elected for two-year terms and oversees budget, staffing decisions and major projects, while day-to-day operations are managed by school leadership. The GEB is formed by parent representatives elected at the start of each school year; it meets monthly with school management to discuss pedagogy, safety, transport, and related issues, and it provides a channel for parent feedback to the school management and the German School Board. The GEB publishes a Parent Council Handbook, and parent involvement is supported by additional parent networks and a Parents' Advisory Council at Eurocampus, reflecting structured opportunities for parental participation in campus life.	Parent teacher association Public materials do not publish a dedicated Parent-Teacher Association by name. Family involvement is described as part of a broader sense of community and engagement with the school through events and communications. The Great Griffin Carnival (publicized in 2024) and online information sessions for prospective families (2024) illustrate family-facing activities hosted by the school, alongside a 2024 commencement ceremony featuring a guest speaker. The school expanded to offer Grades 7 and 8 for the 2024–2025 year, reflecting ongoing development of student-life programs that families engage with. For ongoing updates and admissions inquiries, families are directed to contact the admissions team.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Model United Nations (MUN) is an ongoing academic simulation at GESM. The program started in 2016 and typically involves about 10–12 students who prepare for conferences hosted with partner international schools. Students participate in simulations to develop debate, research, and public-speaking skills, with student leaders such as Chairs guiding sessions. In addition, the Chess Club competes in inter-school tournaments—GESM's U11 team won silver and the U14 team placed in the top five in 2025—and the Cinematics Club produces films as part of the IB CAS program.	Academic & intellectual Clubs and programs for academic enrichment at The Beacon Academy include Model United Nations, Math Varsity, and the Engineering Guild. The Beacon Investment Club and an Entrep Club provide experiences in finance, analysis, and enterprise skills. Additional academically oriented options include Larawan (Literature) and The Pre-Med Club, which support language-based study and science-related inquiry. The school participates in inter-school competitions through ISSA, MISAA, ISTA, and JGFP.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The Cinematics Club produces short films as part of IB CAS, with student projects crossing grade levels. A representative project is the short film 'Where Time Slows,' which was released and screened for the school community. Campus-wide arts initiatives include ongoing collaborations such as the Berliner Bär art project featured on campus.	Arts & creative Arts and creative activities include Griffin Dance Club, Larawan (Literature), Griffin Post, and Yearbook, along with Kitchen Kind (Cooking). These clubs offer performance, writing, publishing, and culinary exploration beyond class time. Students have opportunities to express themselves through dance, literature, journalism, and creative projects. The range of arts-focused clubs is listed among the School Life activities.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language GESM hosts German cultural activities and language experiences beyond the classroom, including Lantern Fest and Martinstag celebrations on campus. The school's international focus is reinforced through programs like MUN, which fosters cross-cultural understanding and global awareness. Family-oriented cultural events such as Eat, Meet & Greet provide opportunities to engage with German campus culture.	Cultural & language Model United Nations is offered as a club, providing students with a forum for global issues and cross-cultural discussion. Larawan (Literature) provides a language- and literature-focused outlet beyond the classroom. Griffin Post and Yearbook contribute to student journalism and communication, supporting language use and cultural expression. These clubs reflect the school's emphasis on language, literature, and global awareness.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Social and hobby-based clubs at GESM include the Chess Club and the Football Club. The Chess Club participated in inter-school tournaments in 2025, earning U11 silver and a top-five finish in U14. The Football Club launched a partnership with Arayat Athletics Academy in 2025, with about 30 players and coaches guiding training and tournament preparations.	Social & hobbies Social and hobby-based offerings include Griffin Dance Club and Kitchen Kind (Cooking). The Griffin Post and Yearbook provide collaborative, creative outlets that support peer connections and school culture. The clubs listed under School Life demonstrate opportunities for informal interests alongside academics.
Community & service	Community & service Community engagement includes visits from local organizations, such as Kyle Javier, founder of the Tiny Blessings Foundation, which were arranged for Grade 3 students. The school also runs outreach initiatives such as the Shoebox Project, along with other charity activities coordinated through student groups.	Community & service The Beacon Academy emphasizes community service through COSA (Community Outreach Student Association). COSA leads student-initiated outreach projects that benefit others and the environment, including the Early Readers Project, which works with public elementary schools to improve literacy. Additional outreach activities include partnerships with Biñan Day Care Center, workshops for pupils, and other service projects.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Leadership development is embedded in student activities; in MUN, students assume roles such as Chairs and Deputy Secretaries General to lead sessions and guide debates. Clubs also have formal leadership structures and coordinators, for example, a Club Coordinator is listed for the Football Club (Ms. Kathleen Juliano) with a designated contact for club enrollment. IB CAS-related activities, like the Cinematics Club, foster mentoring, collaboration, and professional skill-building.	Leadership & professional Leadership development is integrated through student-led, faculty-mentored clubs and outreach programs. The Beacon Academy Student Council provides student governance, while the Entrep Club focuses on entrepreneurship and initiative. Model United Nations also supports leadership and collaboration, and The Pre-Med Club offers science-oriented projects and teamwork opportunities.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sports and physical activity are supported through clubs such as the Football Club, which emphasizes discipline and teamwork and participates in tournaments. The campus environment includes sustainability and wellness activity, evidenced by events like hydroponics workshops and the school's garden, which support science learning and well-being. Cultural celebrations and family events, including Lantern Fest activities, contribute to community well-being and a balanced school life.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sports and physical activities are a core part of the program, with teams in Badminton, Basketball, Chess, Football, Golf, Swimming, Tennis, and Volleyball. The school participates in inter-school competitions through ISSA, MISAA, ISTA, and JGFP, providing opportunities for teams to compete locally and regionally.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision German and English are the languages taught across the school. The German Section uses German as the medium of instruction, while the English Section uses English. In the English Section, German is taught as a foreign language from Kindergarten/Grade 1 with beginner placement for new learners; EAL support is available when needed, and all students are prepared for DSD I (Grade 10) and DSD II (Grade 12). Non-native German learners in the German Section receive language support through push-in and pull-out programs.	Language provision The language of instruction is English across the IB programmes. Mandarin and Spanish are available as Language Acquisition courses in the MYP. Filipino is offered in two tracks—Language and Literature and Language Acquisition—within the MYP, and is also available in the DP as a Language Acquisition option. In the Diploma Programme, language acquisition includes Filipino, Mandarin, and Spanish.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching From Kindergarten to Grade 10, GESM runs two parallel sections defined by the medium of instruction: German or English. The German Section uses German as the medium of instruction, while the English Section uses English. In Grades 11-12, the school offers the IB Diploma Programme or the IB Career-related Programme with English and German as the mediums of instruction, including the Gemischtsprachiges IB option. New students without prior German knowledge may be placed into beginner-level DaF classes, and EAL support is available when needed.	Bilingual teaching The Beacon Academy uses English as the language of instruction across the IB programmes. Mandarin and Spanish are offered as Language Acquisition options in the Middle Years Programme (MYP), enabling students to study a second language alongside English. Filipino is offered in two complementary tracks—Language and Literature and Language Acquisition—across the MYP and Diploma Programme (DP), tailored to students' backgrounds and proficiency levels. The IB Learner Profile emphasizes expressing oneself in more than one language, reflecting the school's multilingual environment.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs Mandarin and Spanish language acquisition is delivered through immersive activities in the MYP (Grades 7-10). In the Diploma Programme (DP), Language Acquisition includes Filipino, Mandarin, and Spanish delivered through immersive learning experiences. These immersion-based language programs help students develop speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills and intercultural understanding. Languages offered for immersion include Mandarin, Spanish, and Filipino.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations The German European School Manila (GESM) operates as part of the European International School, Inc. (EIS), which is the legal entity accredited by the Philippine Department of Education (DepEd). This provides formal recognition of the school by the Philippine government. GESM is an IB World School and offers the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), the IB Diploma Programme (DP), and the IB Career-related Programme (CP) in the senior years, indicating official authorization to run these IB programs. GESM is a member of the UNESCO Associated Schools Network (ASPnet), aligning with UNESCO's aims on sustainability and global citizenship. GESM is recognized by UNESCO as a UNESCO school, confirming its status within UNESCO's network of schools dedicated to sustainable development and global citizenship. GESM follows a German curriculum in the German section and also offers curricula from Cambridge Assessment International Education, reflecting a dual European/International standards framework. GESM is part of the German-speaking network of German Schools Abroad, under the Central Agency for Schools Abroad (ZfA), and is described as being within a globally recognized German schools abroad system. GESM's curricula include Cambridge Assessment International Education (Cambridge) as part of the international section, alongside the German curriculum and the IB framework.	Accreditations The Beacon Academy's accreditations and recognitions include: - Philippine Department of Education (DepEd): The Academy is accredited by DepEd to deliver both Junior High School and Senior High School (Academic Track). - International Baccalaureate (IB) World School: The Academy is authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization to deliver the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Grades 7-10 and the Diploma Programme (DP) for Grades 11-12; IB accreditation supports international standards and global university recognition. - Philippine Council for NGO Certification (PCNC): The Academy has been accredited by PCNC since 2005, indicating alignment with government-regulated NGO standards for transparency and governance.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. First contact. Interested families should reach out to the school and/or arrange a campus visit. The school welcomes inquiries and invites families to take a look at the campus and programs before deciding. 2. Submission of primary requirements. Start the process by submitting the online application form, the last two report cards or development reports, and the Confidential Student Evaluation Form completed by the child's previous homeroom teacher. For Kindergarten and Pre-Primary (ages 3–5), download the appropriate form; for Grade 1–12, use the form intended for older students. These documents help the school assess the child's prior learning and readiness. 3. Assessment and interview. After the primary documents are received, the child is scheduled for an assessment interview with the head teacher of the relevant department, which may be online or on campus. Students entering Grades 6–9 may also take an admissions test in Mathematics and/or English before the interview. Special arrangements are possible for Grades 10 and up. 4. Submission of the application form and other requirements. Complete the rest of the enrollment requirements, including Form I-C Physical Examination Form, Form I-DEx (optional), Form I-F Confidential Student Evaluation Form, copies of last two reports, birth certificate, passport, Philippine visa stamp (if applicable), immunization record, parents' passports, and a digital ID photo. All documents must be submitted in German or English; translations should be verified by the issuing body or an embassy-accredited translator. 5. Approval and enrollment. Once the forms are submitted and the student is assessed by the Head Teacher, the family receives an official admission confirmation from GESM. The letter will note any pending forms or requirements that still need to be completed. 6. Payment of fees. Following admission confirmation, an invoice is issued by the accounting office with the amount due and payment deadline. The school accepts cash, cheque, or bank transfer, and payment details are on the invoice. 7. First day of school. After fees are paid, the teachers or the secretariat contact the family with information about the first day of school, required materials, and other logistics. 8. Age requirements. Kindergarten can begin at age three if the child is toilet-trained, weaned, and can eat independently. Children progress from Kindergarten to Vorschule/Pre-Primary and then to Grade 1, with promotions based on age cut-offs (five turning five before August 31 advances to Vorschule, six turning six before August 31 enters Grade 1). Exceptions to the age rules can be made after discussion with the teachers.	Admissions Step 1 — Access and download the Admissions Packet. The public admissions area provides a packet for applicants that includes Application Form A (Parents) and Application Form B (Students), along with initial instructions for starting the process. This packet is the official starting point for submitting an application. Step 2 — Complete and submit the forms; note that an interview is part of the admissions process for certain grade levels. After obtaining the packet, fill out Application Form A (Parents) and Application Form B (Students) as required, following the included instructions. The admissions process may include an interview as part of the evaluation, depending on the grade level and application specifics. Step 3 — Prepare and submit Admissions Requirements Uploads; gather and send supporting documents. The packet and related pages reference an Admissions Requirements Upload link to provide documents such as medical information, transcripts, and teacher recommendations. Step 4 — Final review and notification of acceptance after all parts are completed. The Academy confirms admission once all components of the Admissions process have been completed; final acceptance is communicated after the review. For context, the admissions guidelines indicate that a student is admitted upon successful completion of all parts of the process.
Scholarships	Scholarships Scholarships: No scholarship program is documented on the school's published admissions or fees materials. The School Fees page lists the membership, entrance, and refundable deposit, plus tuition in Euro and PHP, with notes on currency options and payment timing, but it does not describe any scholarship awards or eligibility.	Scholarships Scholarships and Financial Aid: The Beacon Academy Philippines states a commitment to offering students from all backgrounds the opportunity to receive a holistic, internationally minded education and indicates that incentives and assistance are available to help deserving students enroll. Specific eligibility criteria, application steps, and award amounts are not published on the public pages.
Waitlist	Waitlist Waitlist/Pool: There is no published waitlist or enrollment-pool procedure described in the admissions materials. The process published for enrollment moves from initial contact to required documents, assessment/interview, approval, and then enrollment, subject to available spaces.	Waitlist Public admissions materials do not describe a formal waitlist or pool system for The Beacon Academy Philippines.
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