Germany

Secondary School in Germany EIL Study Abroad offers students between 15 and 18 years old the opportunity to attend a German secondary school while living as a member of a carefully selected German host family.  While in Germany, students will be supported by an EIL trained local coordinator who will help with the adjustment process.  With full immersion into all aspects of German life, students will learn so much more than just the language.  Most popular with Irish Transition Year students, this programme is available from 8 weeks up to a full academic year.  Short-term programme dates are flexible and we try to work around our students’ busy schedules.  In addition to sharpening language skills and gaining fluency, this programme helps our young students gain a sense of independence and most students come back having grown and matured from the experience.  To ensure full immersion and the quality of the programme, friends and family members will not be placed in the same host community.  If you want to experience the typical life of a German teenager and make friends and lasting memories, then this programme is for you!

You will most likely live in a small town or in the German countryside. Family life is important, but Germany offers you a chances to a bit more independent than is some other countries. Young people are encouraged to care of their own affairs. Be prepared to share the household chores.

You’ll most likely attend a university-preparatory school called a gymnasium, where classes run from 7:30 am or 8:30 am to somewhere between 2 pm to 4 pm. Lectures in class are interactive and you are expected to ask questions and join in the discussions.

German is the official language of Germany. Students will need to have studied German and have reached level A2 in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages

Generally students who have studied German at Junior Certificate Level should be able to participate in either the Secondary School programme or the Short Term Language programme

German cuisine is often rich, and differs depending on the region. Red meat, poultry, or fish served with potatoes, dumplings, noodles or rice, and vegetables are popular. Germany is famous for its many types of bread, cakes like the Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte(Black Forest Cake) and coffee. Before the meal, your host family might say, “Guten Appetit,” which invites you to enjoy your meal. A hot meal is usually served once a day. Meals are served at specific hours, and all family members are expected to dine together and be on time.

EIL Study Abroad, together with a number of carefully chosen partners in Germany, have put together a range of programmes which are specifically suited to Irish teenagers and adults interested in learning the German language. Suitable for intermediate to advanced learners preparing for their Leaving Certificate, each programme uses the latest educational techniques in a safe and supportive environment to ensure the best results.