Language learning has dropped throughout the UK, but many still hold on to the belief that “Everyone speaks English”. Is this really true in Germany? If so, why do so many Germans find English native-speakers so hard to understand?
All in Education
Kindergarten Chaos
Having children in #Germany presents some unique challenges for parents, more so for those of us who struggle with umlauts. What are some of the obstacles, and why might the government be less than supportive?
How Fair is German Education?
German education often sees itself as one of the best systems in the world, but how fair is education in Germany and why might it lead to social stigma of children and adults?
The Right Kind of English
It's no surprise to find Germany in the top ten for English Language proficiency, given the high levels of English spoken here. However, does the focus on British English in schools cause problems, and why do certain British accents lead to miscommunication?
Don’t worry, everyone speaks English
Language learning has dropped throughout the UK, but many still hold on to the belief that “Everyone speaks English”. Is this really true in Germany? If so, why do so many Germans find English native-speakers so hard to understand?
What's The Problem With Childcare In Germany?
Finding reliable day care in Germany is not always easy. Around the country there are thousands of children who will not get the chance to join a Kita or Kinderkrippe before they start primary school. Why does Germany still have a blindspot for professional childcare?
The Language Gatekeepers
English language proficiency can be used to assert power or simply humiliate in Germany. Whether you work in an office or happen to a be a minister of state, you will still face trial by language gatekeepers. How has English been weaponised in daily life and why are some praised and others criticised?
The Truth About English Training in Germany
There are many reasons people end up living in Germany. Some may already have a job waiting for them but for many the first step on the ladder of employment is working as an English teacher. What can a new English trainer expect from work in Germany and is it all as good as it seems?
Don’t worry, everyone speaks English
Language learning has dropped throughout the UK, but many still hold on to the belief that “Everyone speaks English”. Is this really true in Germany? If so, why do so many Germans find English native-speakers so hard to understand?
The Two Sides of Germany's Cutting Edge
From outside, Germany appears to be a hub of technology and innovation. However, the everyday experience of life here suggests that may be wishful thinking. Is Germany as modern as it seems and what might the pandemic change about how technology is used?
Kitas, Krippe & the Rabenmutter
Finding day care in Germany is no mean feat. Around the country there are thousands of children who will not get the chance to join a Kita or Kinderkrippe before they start primary school. Why does Germany still have a child day care blind spot?
How Fair is German Education?
German education often sees itself as one of the best systems in the world, but how fair is education in Germany and why might it lead to social stigma of children and adults?
Germany: Memory and Memorials
When discussions turn to how nations remember and the role of public spaces in national memory, I can’t help but think about Germany. How does Germany confront the past and what might other nations learn from it?
German Police State or: Why Can't Little Maxi go to the Ballermann?
Bavarian Police stopped parents at airports, to check if children had permission to be out of school. Is this the state overreaching or is it simply a case of enforcing the law?
Learning German: Four Types of Language Learners
Are you "The Local" or "The Adviser"? There is more than one way to learn a language, which type of learner are you?
Understanding the UK: How Germans see Britain
British expats rarely fufill the German stereotypes of the UK, but we are often called on to explain our former island home. Can Germany ever see passed the tropes, especially when there is so much evidence for them?