In S5, students at the European School Saarland complete a social internship. During the internship, they have the opportunity to actively contribute to the work of a social institution and to meet people from a range of different backgrounds and life situations.

Rather than focusing primarily on career orientation, the social internship places particular emphasis on social responsibility, empathy, independence and civic engagement. Our students learn to take responsibility for others, reflect on their own perspectives and gain an understanding of the important role social institutions play in our society.

The social internship is a school-organised activity and is prepared and followed up in class. Students reflect on their experiences particularly with regard to personal development, social responsibility and social learning.

Students independently look for a social institution where they would like to complete their internship. They should consciously choose an area that provides them with opportunities for new encounters and experiences.

Personal interests can play a role when choosing a placement. At the same time, we strongly encourage students to consider institutions and fields of work with which they have had little previous contact.

Students are generally expected to contact the institutions themselves. If they have any questions or encounter difficulties, the teachers responsible for the internship are available to provide guidance and support.