Interview with teacher Eva Neugebauer: "I want to give the children a lot of optimism."

07.10.2025

20 Jahre

Since 2009, Eva Neugebauer has been shaping the Berlin Süd Campus as a German teacher with her experience, positive attitude to life and enthusiasm for her profession. In this interview, she explains why school should be fun, how working with children has changed over time and what the students give back to her every day.

You've been with us for a long time - since 2009. How did you join Phorms back then?
I applied to Phorms Berlin Süd in 2009, one year after it was founded. I was fascinated by the idea of helping to completely rebuild a school and contributing my many years of experience as a teacher. At that time, we had around 80 students and only taught on the first floor. Everything was new and exciting.

What was it about the job that particularly appealed to you?

Previously, I had only worked at state schools, where the structures are sometimes very rigid. I also like the bilingual aspect. When I was 17, I spent a year in America and later a year in Paris. The principal at the time and I immediately liked each other - I didn't have to think twice about it.

What do you like about your work as a teacher?

I always say that my work is my hobby! After I retired, I initially took a break, but I quickly realized that I wanted to work again. I still feel very fit and am active. And children are just wonderfully spontaneous, honest and open. They tell you when things aren't going well - but also when things are going well and they like your lessons.

What values characterize your work and what do you want to pass on to the children?

I want to pass on some of my life experience, my optimism and my positive attitude to life to the children. My message is: always stay curious and inquisitive, no matter how old you are. I myself am still a spontaneous, curious person.

Children actually love going to school, but unfortunately this enthusiasm often fades over time. School should be fun! That's why I try to make my lessons varied and playful.

How do you do that?

I work a lot with educational games and hardly any worksheets. For example, I play ball games in class. The children throw a ball to each other and answer questions.

What were the particular highlights for you during your time at Phorms?

There are many. Just yesterday, a Russian girl came up to me, hugged me and said: "It's great to have you back!" These are moments that touch the heart.

I was particularly touched by a student who told me after her A-levels that she only really enjoyed German thanks to my lessons. She even invited me to her graduation ball and we are still in contact today.

What are the biggest challenges in teaching these days?

Clearly dealing with media. I have three grandchildren, and it's also a big issue for my own children as parents.

I think it's important to meet children where they are and to take their interests seriously. We can't ignore media and AI today. I try to talk to the children about how to use media sensibly and also question it critically.

Have children changed over time?

Many people berate the younger generations. I see it differently. At least here at Phorms, children are more independent and self-confident than they used to be. The children here learn very early on to speak freely in front of others and to take an active part in discussions or debates, which I think is great.

Do you ever think about quitting?

To be honest: rarely. I like being a teacher far too much for that. And I'm not the only one who is still working in old age. I want to keep moving, physically and mentally. And as long as I realize that I can give the children something for life, I'm happy to stay in the classroom.

Thank you for talking to us, Eva!