Since February last year, 11 Spanish specialists have started working in the daycare centres. None of them ended the project prematurely. On the contrary, all 11 specialists have settled into their tasks well and enrich the centres. The city of Rodgau is now offering all Spanish specialists the opportunity to be taken on. So far, 5 colleagues have already been permanently integrated into the team. There are plans to take on a further two colleagues next July. The specialists were carefully selected through a selection process in Spain. All of them have the necessary qualifications with recognised Spanish professional qualifications. Different language levels posed a challenge, but were overcome through targeted language support. Irene San Jose López, who moved to Rodgau from Madrid, says: "It was difficult to speak German at first. But it got better every day and improved a lot, especially with the help of my colleagues and the children. After a few weeks, I was even dreaming in German." The specialists received comprehensive preparation for the German education system as well as cultural training from Helmeca, a company commissioned by the city. "A common understanding of how to support children's development, many similarities and new ideas from our Spanish colleagues are advantages for everyone involved," says Sandy Zaha, head of Kita15. After 9 to 15 months, the specialists can be taken on permanently. This makes an important contribution to combating the shortage of skilled labour. The town of Rodgau is still planning to recruit skilled workers from Spain and other countries and employ them in the centres. Helmeca is again providing support with its services, including the provision of accommodation. Julia Spahn, Head of the Children and Family Department, is confident: "We are proud of the success of this project and look forward to continuing our fruitful collaboration with our Spanish colleagues."
