Visits can take place at any time between September and July with the freedom to tailor the programme to your common interests.

"It provides real opportunities for creativity. You can take it in any direction because you are not restricted." Putteridge High School

It's free

For schools not able to host a language assistant, the Host a Teacher programme allows pupils to benefit from a fresh injection of German culture and linguistic support at no extra cost.

"UK German Connection provides a great opportunity for schools to share their experience and knowledge in a cost-effective way." Charlton Manor Primary School

It's a great way to exchange resources

Need some ideas for activities to teach a certain topic? Teachers at Oakthorpe Primary were left feeling inspired after sharing ideas and resources with their teacher from Germany.

"Swapping ideas and sharing resources can be quite enlightening and stimulate further ideas for projects and links." Oakthorpe Primary

It's an excellent professional development opportunity

Hosting a teacher from Germany can give you a unique perspective of teaching techniques and can give you some fresh ideas to try out in the classroom.

"It was wonderful to be able to share my practice with the teacher and learn about how he teaches." Woodrow First School

Pupils benefit from cultural input and linguistic support

Bring pupils' learning to life! Having a native speaker in the classroom who is able to share cultural information first-hand provides students with a tangible learning experience and enthusiasm.

"The children gained a unique perspective into a different culture and way of life." Woodrow First School

"It was such a benefit having not only a "native speaker" but also a teacher - the pupils' preparation and performance in oral exams really benefitted from her presence and input."Kelso High School

It can lead to bigger things…

Hosting a teacher from Germany could open up further opportunities for activities or a possible link between the two schools.

After hosting a teacher from Löhne, Spalding High School set up an orchestra exchange, which is still going strong.

A new pen pal scheme was set up between Year 7 pupils at a school in Hertfordshire and their German visitor's school.

"The visit has made the partnership real and personal to both pupils and staff." Bishop Hatfield Girls’ School

• Plan your visitor's timetable in advance, so that as many classes or year groups can benefit.
• Speak to the teacher before they come to ensure that you have broken the ice beforehand.
• Get them involved in all aspects of the school, not just the German department.
• Ask the German teacher to prepare a presentation of their school/local area or bring photos.
• Ask the German teacher to bring letters from their pupils introducing themselves as well as authentic materials.