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Education Ministry Backs Continuation of "Garden Teacher" Scholarship in Its Eight Edition

Gardelegen, a Hannseatic city, persists in its effective approach to luring potential educators: The 'Gardelehrer' scholarship—now in its 8th year—is granted to students in teacher training programs. The purpose is to tie future educators to the area early on, thereby securing long-term teacher...

Education Ministry backs thriving venture: "Green Educator" scholarship enters its eighth cycle
Education Ministry backs thriving venture: "Green Educator" scholarship enters its eighth cycle

Education Ministry Backs Continuation of "Garden Teacher" Scholarship in Its Eight Edition

The "Gardelehrer" Scholarship Program: Supporting Future Teachers in Gardelegen

The Hanseatic City of Gardelegen, Germany, is offering a unique opportunity for students training to become teachers through the "Gardelehrer" scholarship program. This initiative, now in its eighth year, provides comprehensive support to students who are committed to working in the Gardelegen region.

Launched in 2018 with the support of the Ministry of Education of the State of Saxony-Anhalt, the program offers a package that includes financial support, personal guidance, insights into school life, and a clear career perspective. The success of the program is based on intensive cooperation with the Ministry of Education, the State School Office, and schools, as emphasized by Sandra Hietel-Heuer, a Member of the State Parliament.

To be eligible, applicants must be enrolled in a recognized teacher training program at a university or teacher training college in Germany. They must also commit to working as a teacher in the Gardelegen area for a minimum number of years after completing their training—often around 3-5 years. Proof of academic progress and good performance in their studies is typically required, and some programs may require a personal motivation statement or reference letters.

The benefits of the program are numerous. Students receive monthly financial support during their teacher training study, additional support such as mentoring, networking opportunities, or career counseling linked to employment in the local school system, and potential guaranteed job placement or priority consideration in schools within the Gardelegen region after graduation. Some programs may also cover travel expenses or educational materials.

Interested students typically apply through the local government office or in collaboration with partner universities. The application deadline for the 2025-2026 academic year is September 15, 2025. Required documents often include proof of enrollment, academic transcripts, a motivational letter, and a commitment declaration for post-study employment. Selection may involve interviews or assessment of academic credentials and motivation.

Currently, seven teacher training students are benefiting from the "Gardelehrer" program. Several graduates of the program are already successfully teaching at schools in the Altmark region, including Sekundarschule "Am Drömling" in Mieste, Wander-Grundschule, Sekundarschule "Karl Marx", and Gymnasium in Gardelegen.

For more detailed information, interested candidates should contact the local education authority or the municipality of Gardelegen directly. The funding guidelines can be found at www.gardelehrer.de.

This program is a model example of how municipalities can address the acute teacher shortage through creative concepts, close support, and reliable assistance, as praised by Bildungsminister Jan Riedel. Through continuous exchange, gaps in teaching supply can be identified well in advance and targeted action can be taken.

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