KIRKGUNZEON Primary School is currently hosting a student teacher from Berlin as part of her initial teacher training programme.
Selma Holdack, 21, is doing her degree in Germany and chose Scotland for her first compulsory teaching placement.
It comes after she spent a voluntary year working with the inclusive Camphill community at Loch Arthur.
Selma keen to explore how education is delivered in a different country and to understand the Scottish approach to learning. She is particularly interested in experiencing various school types in Scotland and gaining insights into classroom dynamics and pedagogy.
So far Selma, above, has been supporting pupils through guided reading sessions, offering one-on-one learning assistance, and observing day-to-day classroom activities.
She is inspired by the strong sense of community at the school and the collaborative spirit among both staff and pupils. “It truly feels like a learning family,” said Selma. “Everyone contributes to each other’s success—through support, cooperation, and a lot of creative problem-solving. Learning here is joyful, purposeful, and full of energy.
“Pupils not only learn from one another, but they also quickly develop the ability to self-organise and manage their learning. It’s preparing them so well for the future.”
Her placement runs until March 21, after which she will return to Germany.
Headteacher Aleksandra Stores praised the value of international placements, saying: “Hosting student teachers like Selma is an enriching experience for everyone involved. It fosters cross-cultural learning, broadens perspectives, and encourages professional dialogue. Our pupils and staff benefit enormously from the exchange of ideas and fresh insights.”
