ORT Technology School (Gymnasium #1540), Moscow

Founded in 1994, ORT Technology School (Gymnasium #1540) is one of Russia’s most comprehensive and innovative educational institutions, combining general, technological, and ethno-cultural Jewish education. An ORT Technology Centre was added in 1995, and following a major educational merger in 2013, the school now operates as Educational Complex #1540 under the Moscow Department of Education. This includes two school buildings and three kindergartens.

The unified complex educates 1,283 students from preschool through high school with 363 students in kindergarten. The ORT Technology School serves as the lead institution, sharing its pioneering practices across the complex. Recognized nationally for its academic performance and contributions to inclusive education, the school continues to innovate in STEM, digital literacy, and identity-based learning.

Name of School	ORT Technology School (Gymnasium #1540)
Location	Moscow, Russia
Age range	Kindergarten, Preschool, Primary School, Junior School, Middle School, High School
Students	1646
Professionals	197

Curriculum & Academic Life

ORT Technology School (Gymnasium #1540) delivers the national curriculum of the Russian Federation, enriched with advanced programs in engineering, informatics, and applied sciences. Beginning in preschool, students are introduced to STEAM concepts through LEGO kits, robotics, and digital labs. STEAM education continues through all grade levels via modular technology courses and city-level IT initiatives.

In elementary school, students work with LEGO Spike and Dacta to learn robotics and engineering basics. From grades 5 to 9, they rotate through modules in 3D modeling, robotics, and microelectronics, using tools like Arduino, Micro:bit, Tinkercad, and CNC equipment. In grades 10–11, students in the city-wide “IT Class in a Moscow School” program engage in advanced design and digital fabrication using 3D printers, laser cutters, and Technolab kits.

Informatics is taught across all levels. Young learners start with Scratch programming, and older students progress to Python and C++, systems architecture, information security, and cryptography. Each stage includes project-based learning and participation in academic conferences.

Enrichment & Student Life

Students enjoy a robust selection of clubs and after-school activities aligned with their academic and personal interests. Engineering and tech projects extend beyond lessons through project accelerators, STEAM festivals, and interdisciplinary science camps.

The ORT Volunteer Club, active since 2020, empowers students to lead socially responsible initiatives—from elder care and animal shelter visits to supporting orphanages and hospice centers. The School fosters an inclusive, engaged student community supported by strong peer leadership and mentorship systems.

Innovation & Resource Sharing

The School is a recognized regional leader in educational innovation. As a contributor to Moscow’s “IT Class” initiative and developer of in-house technology teaching methods, ORT Technology School (Gymnasium #1540) shares its expertise with educators across the region.

Facilities include a digital fabrication lab, fully equipped classrooms for engineering and informatics, and a preschool digital science space. The School is a pilot site for interdisciplinary STEAM integration and has published widely on best practices in technology education and inclusive learning.

Educating for Life

The School prepares students for modern careers through future-focused learning in informatics, design, and engineering. From foundational algorithmic thinking to real-world fabrication, students are equipped to thrive in today’s digital economy.

Elective courses and student-led projects develop leadership, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Academic performance consistently places the school among Moscow’s top contributors to educational quality.

Jewish Experience

Jewish education begins in preschool with interactive lessons in Hebrew, holidays, and culture. As students progress through the school, Hebrew is taught from grades 1–9 and supplemented with “Maayan” support groups for varying proficiency levels.

All students participate in Jewish tradition classes, celebrating holidays such as Rosh Hashanah, Sukkot, Hanukkah, and Pesach. Each celebration includes learning, cultural activities, and traditional food. The School also observes International Holocaust Remembrance Day and Israeli Yom HaShoah.

Older students (grades 7–11) can join the Madrichim Leadership School, where they plan Shabbatonim and organize peer education initiatives rooted in Jewish history and values.

Global Citizenship

ORT Technology School (Gymnasium #1540) is a participant in various international Jewish educational networks and projects. Shabbatonim, school twinning programs, and student-led ceremonies link the local learning environment with global Jewish culture.

The School promotes active citizenship through its STEAM integration, volunteer initiatives, and inclusive education programs. It is also a finalist and award-winner in national education competitions for inclusive practice and pedagogical innovation.