Germany's population is culturally very diverse. This is also evident in schools: Today, every third primary school child has a migration background. Consequently, it is very essential that teachers deal with heterogeneity at school and in the classroom, teach values such as respect, tolerance, and openness, and thereby prevent discrimination. A strong class community and a qualified, interculturally competent handling of heterogeneity by teachers is important to ensure the learning success of all pupils and to create equal opportunities.
"Study worldwide - EXPERIENCE IT!" about the added value of stays abroad for student teachers
In addition to the study and work experience and the intercultural competence that students acquire abroad, there are other good reasons to live in another country for a while.
A stay abroad is the best way to refresh or deepen foreign language skills. In addition, it is important to leave your comfort zone, master challenges and thus invest in your personal development. Besides, this time is usually marked by additional travel, interesting experiences, adventures and new friends from all over the world.
Duration of the internship: 6 weeks
Country: Italy
Place: Piove di Sacco
Type of school: Secondary school (GYM)
During my internship in Italy, I accompanied and supported two teachers in their German lessons. After a settling-in period, I was allowed to implement my own projects in the classes. Among other things, we dealt with German and Italian music, regional studies, and alcohol prevention.
Doing the internship abroad was a very good decision, because I was able to see the challenges of teaching German in a foreign language. German as a foreign language will play a bigger role at schools in the future, so I'm glad to have gained an impression already. In the meantime, I am taking DAF/DAZ courses and continuing my education in this direction.
During the six weeks in Italy, I stayed with two host families. In addition to the school experience, I also got to know the Italian culture with its boundless hospitality and the country better.
Duration of the internship: 2 months
Country: Spain
Location: Villalobón
Type of school: Primary school
In the transitional phase between my postgraduate degree and my teaching traineeship, I completed a two-month school internship at a primary school in Spain, mainly teaching English and physical education. Spanish primary schools cover years one to six and have an integrated infantile section for pre-school children. The school uses digital textbooks, a mobile bookshop, online learning portals, and inclusive education. Therefore, the Spanish school system proved to me to be very modern and digital.
In everyday school life, you act as a second teacher. An individual timetable is designed for you and you can take over teaching segments. Don't be put off by your lack of language skills (as it was the case for me), because the students and teachers speak English very well. If necessary, you can also communicate through movements.
As a trainee, you will be involved in extracurricular activities and internal school events. I always had enough time to travel to other cities and make new friends.
