GLS Language School Berlin: History
In 2023, we celebrated 40 years of GLS - 40 years in which GLS has grown continuously: What began as one woman show in 1983, is now a company with 150 employees and more than 5000 students every year, who learn German with GLS: more about GLS.
1983
GLS is founded by entrepreneur Barbara Jaeschke in Göttingen, West Germany.
1996
Move to West Berlin - the school initially has 4, then later 12 classrooms
2005
Purchase of an abandoned school in East Berlin
Renovation and transformation into the GLS campus Berlin
2006
Opening of the GLS campus, with 66 classrooms and on-site accommodation for students
2011
Purchase of a a listed city swimming pool right next to the GLS campus
Start of a 5-year renovation - see photos before renovation began
2016
Re-opening of the historic pool as a boutique hotel - Hotel Oderberger - for students and other guests.
The hotel is directed by Barbara Jaeschke's daughter, Dr. Verena Jaeschke.
2020
Barbara Jaeschke's second daughter, Dr. Reemda Jaeschke, joins GLS as Chief Financial Officer.
The Covid pandemic affects GLS, the hotels on campus as well as the language school
2022
GLS hosts the IALC Workshop, an international trade fair for foreign language training worldwide.
2023
GLS turns 40
2024
Student numbers reach pre-covid levels.
