I’ve been wanting to do this for a while — a monthly newsletter to share what’s been going on, what’s coming up, and some handy tips and fun facts about learning German and life in Germany. I think it’s a great way to build a bit of community, keep you updated on what’s new around German with Nadia, and share any tips, ideas, or resources I come across along the way. If this kind of update isn’t for you, feel free to unsubscribe anytime — no hard feelings at all. But if you’re curious or just love all things German, scroll down and enjoy what’s inside this month’s edition!💛
Exciting News: New Kindy Group Starting!
I’m super happy to announce that we’re launching a brand-new group for kindergarten-aged children in Erina on the Central Coast!
It’s perfect for little ones with a German background — whether they’re just starting to speak German or already a bit confident.
The spots are limited, so don’t miss out and get in touch soon!
Spotlight: New Website & Self-Paced Online Preparation Course for IB German B Students Launched
Over the past few months, lots of exciting things have been happening! I’ve just launched a brand-new website, making it easier than ever to explore all the resources and courses I offer.
Plus, there’s now a self-paced online German course available for purchase — perfect for learning anytime, anywhere, and at your own pace.
I’m really proud of these steps forward and can’t wait to share more with you.
What else is happening?
For the second year now, our well-loved Sunday groups for Years 1–7, are still going strong at Erina Library, filled with fun, learning, and friendship. Each 45-minute session includes games, interactive activities, grammar practice, reading and writing exercises, plus a taste of German culture and celebrations.
It’s a wonderful space where kids not only learn the language but also connect with their heritage — and they genuinely look forward to every weekend! As do Milena and I 😊
Success Story
In the last two terms, all Year 11 students did really well on their assessments and are now preparing confidently for their Yearlies and Prelims.
Year 12 students have just completed their trial exams and are focusing hard on preparing for their final exams — especially working on their speaking skills, with the oral exam coming up first in August and September.
It’s inspiring to see such dedication!
Hidden Gems of Germany: Cochem on the Mosel
This month’s spotlight is on Cochem, a charming little town nestled along the Mosel River in western Germany. With its half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and the stunning Reichsburg castle towering above the vineyards, Cochem looks like something straight out of a fairy tale.
It’s a perfect destination for relaxed strolls, wine tasting, and enjoying breathtaking views of the Mosel valley. Not as touristy as other regions, Cochem is a true hidden gem — full of history, charm, and that cozy small-town feel.
German Dish of the Month: Eintopf
While it’s summer in Germany, it’s winter here in Australia — the perfect time for warm, hearty meals. One of the most traditional German comfort foods for the colder months is Eintopf. The word literally means “one pot,” and that’s exactly what it is: a simple, all-in-one meal made by simmering vegetables, potatoes, lentils or beans, and often sausage or meat, in one big pot.
There are countless regional variations, and every family has their own version. It’s filling, nourishing, and full of flavour — ideal for chilly winter days!
Grammar Fact of the Month
German long words can look pretty scary at first — but honestly, they’re just made by stringing together smaller words, like building with Lego blocks!
For example:
Donaudampfschifffahrtsgesellschaftskapitän (Danube steamship company captain) — yeah, it’s a mouthful, but if you break it down, it’s actually just a bunch of little words stuck together.
Handschuhmeans glove — it’s just hand + shoe.
So whenever you see a super long German word, don’t stress. Just try to spot the smaller words inside — it makes them way less scary and even kind of fun!
Fun German Words for August
August in German is “August” (pronounced ow-goost). Did you know the month is named after Augustus Caesar?
Also, the phrase “Sommerloch” (literally “summer hole”) describes the slow news period in August when many people are on vacation, so not much happens in politics or business. It’s a funny way Germans talk about the quiet summer days!
That’s it for this month’s newsletter.
Thanks for sticking with it – I hope you enjoyed the updates and found something helpful or interesting.
If you’d like to get in touch, feel free to reply or give me a call: 0431 980 370.
Talk soon – and keep up the great work with your German!
All the best,
Nadia 💛
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