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2024 - German - Term 1 Newsletter Articles

Alexandra Töniges
March 22, 2024

Term 1 articles include:

Dennis der Bernhardiner  – How wunderbar is learning German

Gemischte Tüte - Neuigkeiten aus der German Community in Aotearoa

German - New Zealand School Exchange Programme 2023/2024 back in full swing

Alexandra Töniges
GERMAN National Language Adviser

Dennis der Bernhardiner  – How wunderbar is learning German

Written by NLA German - Alexandra Toeniges.

German students at Green Bay High School, Auckland, enjoying their special visit.

Hallo! Ich heiße James und ich lerne seit 4 Monaten Deutsch.  Heute haben wir Besuch von einem Hund bekommen. Er heißt Dennis und er ist ein Bernhardiner. Bernhardiner kommen aus der Schweiz. Dennis wohnt mit seiner Familie in Green Bay, das ist im Westen von Auckland. Er ist drei Jahre alt. Dennis Geburtstag ist am dreizehnten November. Er sieht freundlich aus. Er hat braunes Fell und er ist sehr groß! Er mag Kinder, aber er mag Enten und kleine Hunde nicht! Er frisst Hundekekse! Ich denke Dennis ist der Hammer! Ich liebe Hunde, denn Hunde sind toll.  
   - James Cameron, Year 9 German student, Green Bay High School


In an innovative approach to teaching German grammar and fostering intercultural understanding, Green Bay High School recently welcomed a special guest: a St. Bernard dog club! With wagging tails and eager paws, these furry companions brought a unique twist to the classroom.

As students gathered around their newfound furry friends, the lesson took on a lively and engaging atmosphere. The focus was on describing the lovable St. Bernards using German adjectives and phrases. From their fluffy fur to their friendly demeanour, students immersed themselves in the language while interacting with these gentle giants.

Through this hands-on experience, not only did students deepen their understanding of German grammar, but they also gained valuable insights into Swiss culture, where the St. Bernard breed originates from. They learned about the historical significance of these dogs as alpine rescuers and explored the importance of animals in different cultures.

Gemischte Tüte - Neuigkeiten aus der German Community in Aotearoa

Written by NLA German, Alexandra Toeniges.

Current German Language Assistants, Jule, Joschka, Isabel und Kimberley, and pretzels from a baking session at Lynfield College

Top Scholar in NZ Award for German and International Parliamentary Scholarship Programme  - Mount Albert Grammar School, Auckland

In the Scholarship examinations held at the end of last year, Samuel Reeves received three scholarships: the Top Scholar in NZ Award for German as well as scholarships in Biology and Chemistry. Samuel will travel to Wellington to receive these awards from the Prime Minister.
In addition, HOD German Warwick Gibbs has been contacted by two former students who have been awarded internships at the German Parliament “Bundestag” in Berlin through the International Parliamentary Scholarship programme - “Albertians interning at German Parliament in Berlin”. We are sure this move to Berlin for their internship will be a valuable experience.

Learning German at Lynfield College, Auckland

On Friday we had a great opportunity to make German bread with Frau Pasch, who owns Bread and Butter bakery.  She also taught us about the history and development of bread that goes back thousands of years in Germany and other cultures. Our class made Brezeln and Zopf (Braided Bread) from a brioche dough that was brought in from the bakery. We had the option to add sprinkles, sesame seeds or cinnamon. It was a very fun and interactive experience. Everyone also enjoyed eating the bread as it was very warm and perfectly done. The whole class had a great time learning how to make Zopf and Brezeln. We are thankful for Frau Pasch for taking time out of her schedule to come and teach us.
A great inspiration for our upcoming German Language week.
- Mirjam Wradatsch, German Teacher, Lynfield College


Meet our four new PAD German Language Assistants 2024

We are excited to welcome our new PAD German Language Assistants. Es sind vier Fremdsprachenassistenzen (FSA) des PADs(Pädagogischer Austauschdienst) im Land.
Haere mai euch Vieren!

Kia Ora, I'm Joschka, the German language assistant in Dunedin.
It's my second year with the programme because I had an awesome time last year in Aotearoa and I just had to come back. When I'm not teaching, you'll probably find me out in the ocean trying to catch some waves or planning my next tramping trip. There's still so much more to see and I'm excited to find out what New Zealand has in store for me this year.
Kia Ora, mein Name ist Jule Marie Westphalen. Ich komme aus dem schönen Norden Deutschlands. Neuseeland erschien mir in den Geschichten, die ich von dem Land bisher gehört habe, schon immer sympathisch. Und ich wurde nicht enttäuscht: Die atemberaubende Landschaft und unglaubliche ökologische Diversität gepaart mit einer interkulturellen offenherzigen Gesellschaft und einer im Verhältnis zu Europa jungen Geschichte, die auch nach wie vor durch den Umgang mit den Māori geprägt wird, machen Neuseeland einzigartig. Ich bin dankbar, Teil des neuseeländischen Schulsystems zu sein und durch meine Rolle als Fremdsprachenassistenz einen Beitrag zur Bildung von Weltbürger:innen leisten zu können.
Hello! My name is Kimberly and I'm from Kassel in Germany. I'm currently a Language Assistant at Heretaunga College in Upper Hutt and at Wellington Girls' College.
Ever since watching The Lord of the Rings I've wanted to come to New Zealand and see the beautiful landscape. So far, the open-mindedness and kindness of people here have been an amazing experience, and I cannot wait to get to know New Zealand and the people here even more!
Hello, I am Isabel Klier and currently live in Auckland working as a German Language Assistant at 4 different high schools. So far, the time here has been great. Whether it's teaching German, exploring New Zealand's nature, or having conversations with Kiwis, in the past few weeks I've already experienced so many beautiful things. I’m looking forward to everything that’s to come in the 10 months left in this amazing country and am really grateful for this opportunity.


A quick reminder


German Language Week 2024 is coming up from 2 - 5 April 2024


A great opportunity to celebrate & share the German language and culture with your schools and communities. Join in and share your moments with us via social media. Reach out to the Goethe-Institut should you have any further questions or contact the German National Adviser Alexandra Toeniges at a.toniges@auckland.ac.nz.

German - New Zealand School Exchange Programme 2023/2024 back in full swing

Written by German NLA, Alexandra Toeniges

Impressions of the exchange programs. Creating lifelong memories.

After a challenging hiatus due to the pandemic, the school exchange programme between Germany and New Zealand is now back in full swing, rejuvenating the spirit of cultural exchange and friendship, bringing together students from two diverse corners of the world.  Students have enthusiastically embraced the opportunity for cultural exchange and learning.

Kiwi students had the extraordinary chance to experience a quintessential white Christmas in Germany, immersing themselves in the festive traditions and snowy landscapes of the Bavarian and North Rhine-Westphalian regions. Now, the tables have turned, as German students find themselves in the welcoming embrace of their Kiwi host families, enjoying the unique charms of Aotearoa.

This exchange programme not only fosters cultural understanding and appreciation but also forges lifelong friendships and memories. As students immerse themselves in each other's cultures, they gain invaluable insights, broaden their horizons, and develop a global perspective that transcends borders.

With this exchange programme flourishing once again, the bonds between Germany and New Zealand are strengthened, paving the way for future generations to continue this enriching tradition of cross-cultural exchange and making lifelong memories. For further questions please do not hesitate to reach out to Kristina Mc Guiness (nzfrgexchange@gmail.com) or Margot Glaser-Brown (mglaser-brown@tgc.school.nz).


Please see also the following newsletter for more insight. Huge thanks for sharing your pictures with us:

https://www.rutherford.school.nz/news/2024-02-23-willkommen-germany-new-zealand-exchange

Alexandra Töniges
Alexandra is the German National Language Adviser for Tui Tuia | Learning Circle's Languages team.
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2024 - German - Term 1 Newsletter Articles

Dennis der Bernhardiner  – How wunderbar is learning German

Written by NLA German - Alexandra Toeniges.

German students at Green Bay High School, Auckland, enjoying their special visit.

Hallo! Ich heiße James und ich lerne seit 4 Monaten Deutsch.  Heute haben wir Besuch von einem Hund bekommen. Er heißt Dennis und er ist ein Bernhardiner. Bernhardiner kommen aus der Schweiz. Dennis wohnt mit seiner Familie in Green Bay, das ist im Westen von Auckland. Er ist drei Jahre alt. Dennis Geburtstag ist am dreizehnten November. Er sieht freundlich aus. Er hat braunes Fell und er ist sehr groß! Er mag Kinder, aber er mag Enten und kleine Hunde nicht! Er frisst Hundekekse! Ich denke Dennis ist der Hammer! Ich liebe Hunde, denn Hunde sind toll.  
   - James Cameron, Year 9 German student, Green Bay High School


In an innovative approach to teaching German grammar and fostering intercultural understanding, Green Bay High School recently welcomed a special guest: a St. Bernard dog club! With wagging tails and eager paws, these furry companions brought a unique twist to the classroom.

As students gathered around their newfound furry friends, the lesson took on a lively and engaging atmosphere. The focus was on describing the lovable St. Bernards using German adjectives and phrases. From their fluffy fur to their friendly demeanour, students immersed themselves in the language while interacting with these gentle giants.

Through this hands-on experience, not only did students deepen their understanding of German grammar, but they also gained valuable insights into Swiss culture, where the St. Bernard breed originates from. They learned about the historical significance of these dogs as alpine rescuers and explored the importance of animals in different cultures.

Gemischte Tüte - Neuigkeiten aus der German Community in Aotearoa

Written by NLA German, Alexandra Toeniges.

Current German Language Assistants, Jule, Joschka, Isabel und Kimberley, and pretzels from a baking session at Lynfield College

Top Scholar in NZ Award for German and International Parliamentary Scholarship Programme  - Mount Albert Grammar School, Auckland

In the Scholarship examinations held at the end of last year, Samuel Reeves received three scholarships: the Top Scholar in NZ Award for German as well as scholarships in Biology and Chemistry. Samuel will travel to Wellington to receive these awards from the Prime Minister.
In addition, HOD German Warwick Gibbs has been contacted by two former students who have been awarded internships at the German Parliament “Bundestag” in Berlin through the International Parliamentary Scholarship programme - “Albertians interning at German Parliament in Berlin”. We are sure this move to Berlin for their internship will be a valuable experience.

Learning German at Lynfield College, Auckland

On Friday we had a great opportunity to make German bread with Frau Pasch, who owns Bread and Butter bakery.  She also taught us about the history and development of bread that goes back thousands of years in Germany and other cultures. Our class made Brezeln and Zopf (Braided Bread) from a brioche dough that was brought in from the bakery. We had the option to add sprinkles, sesame seeds or cinnamon. It was a very fun and interactive experience. Everyone also enjoyed eating the bread as it was very warm and perfectly done. The whole class had a great time learning how to make Zopf and Brezeln. We are thankful for Frau Pasch for taking time out of her schedule to come and teach us.
A great inspiration for our upcoming German Language week.
- Mirjam Wradatsch, German Teacher, Lynfield College


Meet our four new PAD German Language Assistants 2024

We are excited to welcome our new PAD German Language Assistants. Es sind vier Fremdsprachenassistenzen (FSA) des PADs(Pädagogischer Austauschdienst) im Land.
Haere mai euch Vieren!

Kia Ora, I'm Joschka, the German language assistant in Dunedin.
It's my second year with the programme because I had an awesome time last year in Aotearoa and I just had to come back. When I'm not teaching, you'll probably find me out in the ocean trying to catch some waves or planning my next tramping trip. There's still so much more to see and I'm excited to find out what New Zealand has in store for me this year.
Kia Ora, mein Name ist Jule Marie Westphalen. Ich komme aus dem schönen Norden Deutschlands. Neuseeland erschien mir in den Geschichten, die ich von dem Land bisher gehört habe, schon immer sympathisch. Und ich wurde nicht enttäuscht: Die atemberaubende Landschaft und unglaubliche ökologische Diversität gepaart mit einer interkulturellen offenherzigen Gesellschaft und einer im Verhältnis zu Europa jungen Geschichte, die auch nach wie vor durch den Umgang mit den Māori geprägt wird, machen Neuseeland einzigartig. Ich bin dankbar, Teil des neuseeländischen Schulsystems zu sein und durch meine Rolle als Fremdsprachenassistenz einen Beitrag zur Bildung von Weltbürger:innen leisten zu können.
Hello! My name is Kimberly and I'm from Kassel in Germany. I'm currently a Language Assistant at Heretaunga College in Upper Hutt and at Wellington Girls' College.
Ever since watching The Lord of the Rings I've wanted to come to New Zealand and see the beautiful landscape. So far, the open-mindedness and kindness of people here have been an amazing experience, and I cannot wait to get to know New Zealand and the people here even more!
Hello, I am Isabel Klier and currently live in Auckland working as a German Language Assistant at 4 different high schools. So far, the time here has been great. Whether it's teaching German, exploring New Zealand's nature, or having conversations with Kiwis, in the past few weeks I've already experienced so many beautiful things. I’m looking forward to everything that’s to come in the 10 months left in this amazing country and am really grateful for this opportunity.


A quick reminder


German Language Week 2024 is coming up from 2 - 5 April 2024


A great opportunity to celebrate & share the German language and culture with your schools and communities. Join in and share your moments with us via social media. Reach out to the Goethe-Institut should you have any further questions or contact the German National Adviser Alexandra Toeniges at a.toniges@auckland.ac.nz.

German - New Zealand School Exchange Programme 2023/2024 back in full swing

Written by German NLA, Alexandra Toeniges

Impressions of the exchange programs. Creating lifelong memories.

After a challenging hiatus due to the pandemic, the school exchange programme between Germany and New Zealand is now back in full swing, rejuvenating the spirit of cultural exchange and friendship, bringing together students from two diverse corners of the world.  Students have enthusiastically embraced the opportunity for cultural exchange and learning.

Kiwi students had the extraordinary chance to experience a quintessential white Christmas in Germany, immersing themselves in the festive traditions and snowy landscapes of the Bavarian and North Rhine-Westphalian regions. Now, the tables have turned, as German students find themselves in the welcoming embrace of their Kiwi host families, enjoying the unique charms of Aotearoa.

This exchange programme not only fosters cultural understanding and appreciation but also forges lifelong friendships and memories. As students immerse themselves in each other's cultures, they gain invaluable insights, broaden their horizons, and develop a global perspective that transcends borders.

With this exchange programme flourishing once again, the bonds between Germany and New Zealand are strengthened, paving the way for future generations to continue this enriching tradition of cross-cultural exchange and making lifelong memories. For further questions please do not hesitate to reach out to Kristina Mc Guiness (nzfrgexchange@gmail.com) or Margot Glaser-Brown (mglaser-brown@tgc.school.nz).


Please see also the following newsletter for more insight. Huge thanks for sharing your pictures with us:

https://www.rutherford.school.nz/news/2024-02-23-willkommen-germany-new-zealand-exchange