Welcome to the GISA team!
We are delighted to welcome Annalena Leinauer and Ralph Werner as two dedicated and experienced educators to the German International School Accra.
With their professional expertise, passion for education, and international experience, they will be a valuable addition to our teaching staff and enrich our school community in many different ways.
Annalena Leinauer comes from Bavaria and will take on the role of class teacher for Grade 3/4. With great pedagogical sensitivity, structure, and fresh ideas, she will support and guide her students during this important stage of their learning journey. Creating a positive, creative, and motivating learning environment is particularly important to her.
Ralph Werner is an experienced Swiss educator who has been involved for many years in building up a school in South Africa. At the German International School Accra, he will primarily work as a special education teacher and will also contribute social-pedagogical perspectives to everyday school life with a strong sense for the bigger picture.
We are very much looking forward to working together and warmly welcome Annalena Leinauer and Ralph Werner to the community of the German International School Accra.
Profile: Annalena Leinauer
Name: Annalena Leinauer
Origin: Bavaria, Germany
I studied primary education in Bavaria and most recently worked as a class teacher for Grade 3. At the German International School Accra, I will be teaching and leading Grade 3/4.
During my studies, I also worked as a German language teacher in Indonesia – an experience that strongly shaped my interest in international education and cultural exchange.
Favourite subjects: Mathematics, German and Art
Favourite food: Stuffed bell peppers (in Ghana so far I have only tried Jollof Rice 🙂)
Favourite animal: Cat
Hobbies: Reading, sports, hiking, creative projects and singing
I am especially looking forward to working in an international environment where cultural diversity, multilingualism, and an open-minded worldview enrich everyday school life.
Profile: Ralph Werner
Name: Ralph Werner
Origin: Switzerland
I grew up in a small town in the Swiss Alps, at the gateway to the Grisons ski resorts. I also completed my training as a primary school teacher there and taught for several years at different primary schools.
In my free time, I enjoy skiing, going on safaris, and diving – in Ghana this will probably look a bit different 🙂
I particularly value deep conversations with people who have different experiences, attitudes, and values, where the focus lies on developing one’s own worldview rather than on questions of right or wrong.
Why Accra?
When I planned my first stay abroad around 25 years ago, two countries were on my shortlist: Ghana and South Africa. Without any specific reason, I chose South Africa at the time. Ghana is therefore a long-standing wish that I am now fulfilling.
Life motto:
For me, there is no distinction between work and leisure – there is only life.
I sincerely hope to contribute my experience in a meaningful way to the school and am very much looking forward to the start of the school year and to getting to know all students and staff in person.
