The first research-based exhibition at the SchulSchaulager examines how stereotypical and racist ideas, theories of heredity and eugenics found their way into school teaching from the late nineteenth century onwards. Drawing on selected historical teaching materials and objects from the collection, it shows how scientific theories were communicated, social prejudices reinforced and people classified into supposedly distinct “races”.

The exhibition is being developed by Professor Emeritus Dr phil. I habil. Hans-Ulrich Grunder and Professor Emeritus Dr Lucien Criblez, co-heads of the Research Department and the School History Research Workshop at the Bern School Museum.

“Unfamiliar Spaces – School, Migration and the World”: Since May 2026, the Bern School Museum has been showcasing its extensive collection under the title “Unfamiliar Spaces – School, Migration and the World”. A range of exhibition formats explores historical and contemporary experiences of migration in schools and examines how “otherness” is represented in our teaching materials. Through a variety of approaches, the exhibition series aims to encourage reflection on education, migration and integration, connecting historical perspectives with contemporary social issues.