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

Leipzig
Part-time
Trainee

General

Job Start: 01 August 2026
Positions: max. 2 (depending on the decision of the City of Leipzig in June 2026)
Location: 
Leipzig International Kindergarten, Karl-Heine-Str. 95, Leipzig, Germany

Our Leipzig International Kindergarten, opened in June 2014, provides over 270 children aged 1 to 6 with a full-day, year-round, early education programme, which aims at supporting each child’s personal, social, academic, physical and emotional development in an international setting.

 

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

  • Care for children aged 12 months to 6 years in a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment
  • Contribute to creating inclusive learning environments in which children can develop their intellectual, physical, social, emotional, and creative potential
  • Plan and implement age-appropriate, child-centred and theme-based learning experiences in line with the Saxony State Curriculum for Kindergarten (Sächsischer Bildungsplan) and the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
  • Observe, support, guide, and actively participate in children’s play, learning processes, and daily routines
  • Support children in developing essential life skills, including dressing, toileting, self-care, and independent eating
  • Assist children in their social-emotional development and support them in managing individual needs and challenges
  • Build and maintain positive, respectful relationships with children, colleagues, and families as part of a collaborative learning community
  • Provide formative feedback to support children’s learning progress and the development of higher-order thinking skills
  • Participate in team meetings and contribute professional observations on children’s development and learning
  • Collaborate with colleagues to continuously improve the quality of care, education, and learning at Leipzig International Kindergarten
  • Support communication with families in collaboration with educators through Seesaw posts, parent meetings, and written documentation/reporting

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)

About us

Leipzig International School GmbH (LIS) is a warm and vibrant non-profit educational community dedicated to fostering learning, growth, and global citizenship. Serving nearly 1,100 students from local and international families, our school offers an enriching experience from kindergarten through secondary school, including integrated before- and after-school care. Guided by our motto, "Learning to be a citizen of the world," we celebrate diversity, internationality, and inclusivity, providing a nurturing environment where students thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Supported by a dedicated team of 250 staff members from 37 nations, LIS ensures a stimulating and supportive learning journey for every child, from their first steps into education to achieving university entrance qualifications. Our symbol, the lion, reflects the courage, strength, and resilience we nurture in our students, qualities that empower them to embrace challenges and transform their lives. At LIS, we are proud to inspire a brighter future through education and to foster a community where every individual belongs and grows.

LIS is an inclusive learning community and does not discriminate on the basis of race, skin colour, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, marital status or sexual orientation.