Heidrun Wellmer (Germany), 20 years old. Long term volunteer at École Créative (September 2025 – July 2026).
Hey, my name is Heidrun, 20 years old and I am from the north of Germany. When I think back to the moment I finished school, I mostly remember one feeling: I did not want a “classic” adult life. I wanted to learn… but differently. Not only from books, but through experiences and life itself. That is when I started searching for an opportunity for non-formal learning and I found it in the European Solidarity Corps.
And then I arrived here, at my new home. A small city in the south of France, close to the Pyrenees. My workplace: an alternative primary school surrounded by nature and an impressive view to the mountains. I did not know exactly what to expect. But I knew I wanted to try.
During my first days, I already felt that I had arrived. Even though I did not know anyone, there was this invisible safety of people who welcomed me and made me feel secure. The school is inspired by Montessori and other alternative pedagogies. The children learn mostly autonomously, guided by the teachers, once a week in the forest, through observation and experience, by doing activities and by talking with different people. Nature, creativity and community are part of everyday life here. My days are diverse. During the independent working periods, I accompany the children and support them in understanding tasks or finding materials. And I learn at least as much as they do, about patience, trust, non-violent communication and, most of all, about children. One of the most beautiful parts is building real connections with them. Laughing together. Learning together. Realizing that I am allowed to be part of their journey and their childhood.
Than I help prepare materials, heat the lunches or take care of small practical tasks like cleaning. Every day is different. And every evening I am tired, but in a good, fulfilling way. One of the main reasons why I chose to do this volunteer mission is my interest in education and environmental awareness. I am fascinated by how children learn, how they develop their personalities and how autonomous teaching methods can give them confidence and the ability to find their own solutions to problems. Being part of the school allows me to observe these processes closely and also contribute to them.
But maybe what I have learned the most here is to experience life differently, maybe a little more like a child. Making leaf crowns in autumn. Dancing in the snow or laughing in the rain during winter. And now, in spring, watching the first flowers bloom. I have relearned how to truly feel the seasons.
Speaking French was challenging at first. But foreseeably, it got better. The children are truly my best teachers 🙂
I wanted to step out of my comfort zone. And maybe that is exactly what happened. I have gained new perspectives on education, sustainability and community. And most importantly, I have discovered new parts of myself.
I do not know exactly where my path will lead me next. But I know that I want to stay as curious as I am here. Curious about everything. And I am deeply grateful for this decision.
