Hort: Trainee Position / Duales Studium / Berufsbegleitende Ausbildung zum staatlich anerkannten Erzieher oder Kindheitspädagogen (m/w/d)

General Job Start: 01 August 2026 Positions : max. 2 (depending on the decision of the City of Leipzig) Location: Leipzig International School, Könneritzstraße 47, Leipzig, Germany Our After School Programme (Hort ) provides students with opportunities beyond the regular school day. Educators in Hort focus on children’s social, behavioural, physical and emotional learning during open Hort hours, in the classrooms, and during school holidays. We place value on the interaction between the child and the adult within our learning environments to promote independence, confidence and initiative-taking in children. The conceptual background of our work is informed by the International Primary Curriculum and Saxony’s Learning Curriculum (Bildungsplan) for children. Definition of the Trainee Role The dual study programme or vocational training pathway is designed to provide structured, practice-oriented learning opportunities for trainees, enabling them to gain a recognised qualification in an educational or social pedagogy profession. The programme combines theoretical instruction at a recognised German educational institution (specialised academy, university, or vocational school) with practical training at either the Kindergarten or Hort of Leipzig International School as the practice partner.The aim of the programme is to progressively develop the professional competencies required to work independently and confidently as an educator. Throughout the training period, the trainee gradually assumes increasing levels of responsibility in line with their developing skills, knowledge, and professional experience.In this role, the trainee actively supports Leipzig International School in promoting its values and in fulfilling its mission and vision. The trainee contributes meaningfully to the learning, wellbeing, and holistic development of children and learners across LIS, while being guided and supported by experienced educators and teams. Prerequisite for the Position Candidates must be enrolled with a recognised German school, university, or training institution that offers an eligible state-approved educational programme in early childhood education, social pedagogy, or a related field. Your tasks and responsibilities Educate and care for learners in Grades 1–5 during core Hort times and breaks, ensuring a structured, supportive, and engaging environment Support learners during class time, transitions, and structured learning periods in cooperation with classroom teachers Promote the holistic development of learners, including their intellectual, physical, social, emotional, and creative growth Actively contribute to the school’s guiding principle “Learning to be a citizen of the world” by encouraging openness, respect, curiosity, and understanding of diverse perspectives, cultures, values, and communities Observe, document, and reflect on students’ learning, development, and behaviour in both structured and unstructured learning environments Provide authentic, formative feedback to support students’ learning progress and the development of higher-order thinking skills Assist learners in their social-emotional development and support them in managing individual needs and challenges Collaborate closely with Hort team members and Primary School teachers to ensure continuity between school and Hort Build and maintain positive, respectful relationships with learners, colleagues, and families as part of a collaborative learning community Support the planning, implementation, co-leading, and evaluation of Hort projects, programmes, and holiday activities Engage in conceptual development work contributing to the ongoing development of the Hort pedagogical concept Work as an active team member within the Hort and Primary School setting to ensure consistent implementation of systems, routines, and safeguarding procedures Your profile Fulfilment of the admission requirements of the relevant educational institution (e.g. A-levels, completed vocational training as a state-recognised Social Assistant, or a comparable qualification and/or relevant experience) Fluency in written and spoken English or German, with a basic understanding of the other language A strong sense of responsibility, together with physical and mental resilience, flexibility, and a friendly, approachable demeanour A committed attitude towards learners, with a clear focus on their development, well-being, safety, and growth A collaborative team player who is open to change, solution-oriented, and brings a good sense of humour to daily work Excellent organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise effectively and manage multiple tasks Strong attention to detail, combined with sound problem-solving skills The ability to work independently and take responsibility for a full range of tasks within the role Well-developed communication, reflection, and feedback skills, supported by empathy and intercultural competence The ability to positively challenge situations, contribute to conflict resolution, and support continuous improvement Previous practical experience in a kindergarten or educational setting is considered an advantage What we offer A vibrant, diverse, and supportive school community Opportunities for professional growth in a globally connected environment A chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of our learners as they grow into confident, internationally-minded individuals Wonderful students who are interested in learning A dynamic and diverse workplace that continues to develop best teaching and learning practice 30 days of paid vacation, and December 24 and 31 designated as non-working days The chance to engage in the life of the International School in the beautiful city of Leipzig; a historic, green, vibrant university city that is safe, well-connected, and in the cultural heart of Europe Company benefits such as company pension scheme, supplementary health insurance, moving allowance, JobRad leasing, financial support for a German language course etc. (Awarded the designation of a Socially Responsible Employer)