In Stadtallendorf, a German city with a complex history of both excluding and integrating foreigners, genial teacher Dieter Bachmann helps his students feel at home. Between twelve and fourteen, these pupils come from a dozen different nations; some have not quite mastered the German language. On the brink of retirement, Mr. Bachmann is eager to inspire these citizens-in-the-making with a sense of curiosity for crafts, subjects, cultures and opinions.

Watching Maria Speth's absorbing, sensitive documentary, one is struck by the impact made by extraordinary educators. MR. BACHMANN AND HIS CLASS beautifully highlight the quietly spectacular miracle of education.