Testimonials
My Stay in Australia
My stay at the University High School in Parkville as a German Language Assistant was a consistently positive and enriching experience. From the start I felt comfortable at the school and was made to feel welcome.
The teachers extended a cordial reception to me and were always there to support me, so that I quickly felt like a member of the team. I was not only integrated into the school’s daily processes, but I also actively participated in classroom instructions with groups of students or individual coaching to expand the students’ knowledge of German. I believe that my contributions were valued by both the teachers and the students.
The integration into the classroom gave me an ideal opportunity not only to convey the German language and culture, but also to gain insights into the Australian school system. This is a valuable enrichment for my studies as a prospective teacher.
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My gratitude goes to the German Australian Learning Exchange organisation. They made it possible for me to come to Australia in the first place. GALE not only enabled me to widen my horizon and to collect unforgettable experiences, but they also ensured that the whole process was well organised and progressed smoothly. I particularly want to emphasise GALE’s commitment to provide future participants with this extraordinary experience.
I can recommend this experience to anyone interested in teaching as a language assistant abroad. It not only offers the possibility to garner valuable professional experiences, but also to develop personally and get to know new cultures and make valuable contacts.
Carina Lenuweit.
Report: Carina
On behalf of University High School, I would like to express our gratitude for Carina Lenuweit’s outstanding contribution as a German language volunteer during Term 3, 2024. Carina was exceptional in every aspect—punctual, dedicated, and willing to go beyond what was expected of her. She primarily worked with our senior classes, establishing a fantastic rapport with both students and teachers.
Carina’s involvement was invaluable in supporting oral practice for our students, and she provided unique cultural insights that only a native speaker could offer. Her professionalism and enthusiasm greatly enriched our German program, and we truly came to rely on her daily contributions in class.
University High would be very interested in hosting another German teaching assistant in 2025. Thank you for facilitating such a rewarding exchange.
Sincerely,
John Tiernan
University High School
Report: Justine
Justine primarily focused on assisting the Year 12 students with their German conversation practice.
Integration into the School Environment
- Support for Year 12 Students
Justine was very helpful in supporting Year 12 students with their German conversation practice. Her tailored assistance helped enhance their language skills, providing them with the confidence needed for their examinations and future language use. - Positive Interactions Across Year Levels
Justine’s approachable personality allowed her to connect with students across all year levels. Her positive demeanour created an inviting atmosphere where students felt comfortable engaging with her and practicing their language skills. - Connection with Host Family
Justine built a strong rapport with her host family, who were generous in their hospitality. They took her on a one-week trip down the Great Ocean Road to Adelaide, providing her with a rich experience of Australian culture. This connection likely contributed to her positive outlook and ability to relate to students.
Benefits to the School
- Encouragement of Curiosity
Justine’s presence sparked curiosity about the German language and its culture among students. Her stories and insights helped to make the language more relatable and interesting, encouraging students to engage more deeply with their studies. - Cultural Exchange
Through her interactions, Justine facilitated a greater understanding of German culture among students. Her experiences provided a real-world context for language learning, making lessons more engaging and relevant.
Conclusion
Overall, Justine Schindler’s role as a language assistant at our school was beneficial for students. Her ability to support Year 12 students in their German conversation practice, combined with her positive demeanour and cultural insights, enriched the learning environment.