FAQ

Generally, yes. However, if support is arranged on short notice, the initial introduction may take place on their first day on the job.

This depends on the total number of hours approved by the funding provider and how those hours can be most effectively distributed to benefit the child.

In general, overall responsibility and the duty of supervision always remain with the teachingstaff. While our school companions naturally act responsibly and proactively, any temporary supervision they provide remains subject to the ultimate oversight of the school's educational staff.

No. The school companion can help make the curriculum accessible to the child and adapt the approach if needed, but they are not responsible for – nor should they be assigned to – the core content, delivery, or results of the lessons.

The companion’s participation in extra curricular or after-school activities depends entirely on the approval of the funding provider and may need to be applied for separately.

Generally, the school companion is there exclusively to support their assigned child. However, they can interact with and be approachable for other children, as long as their primary duty is not affected. Here, too, the core educational domain of the teachers remains entirely untouched.

If our companion is unable to attend, we will do our absolute best to arrange a substitute as quickly as possible. If a replacement cannot be found, further arrangements must be coordinated between the teachers and the parents or legal guardians.

As a school companion, you support children with special educational needs during class, enabling them to actively participate in daily school life. The exact form and extent of this support are uniquely tailored to each individual child.

This depends on the total number of hours approved by the funding provider and how those hours can be most effectively distributed to benefit the child.

While a background in pedagogy or social work is certainly an advantage, we warmly welcome career changers. If you bring the right mindset, capability, and motivation, you can absolutely succeed in school support.

Our compensation is based on your qualifications and experience. We offer competitive hourly wages even for those new to the field, alongside additional employee benefits.

Generally, your working hours are aligned with the child’s school schedule and the approved hours of support. Weekends and school holidays are entirely free.

Yes. We support you through classroom observations, regular training opportunities, and continuous close communication within the team and with your manager.

Yes. We set up anannualized salary account (Jahres-Gehaltskonto) where any extra hours worked beyond your contract are recorded. This ensures you receive a steady, continuous income even during school holiday periods.

In the event of aplanned or unplanned absence (such as doctor’s appointments, rehabilitation, orillness), you may be asked to support another child who is currently without acompanion. This is a vital and highly rewarding responsibility that allows you to expand your professional experience.

By nature, individual school support is initially tied to the temporary funding approved by the local authorities. However, based on the duration of your work with BegleitLichter, our ultimate goal is always to transition your position into a permanent contract.

You submit the application to your local Youth Welfare Office (Jugendamt) or Social Welfare Office (Sozialamt). You will need medical documentation (diagnoses, expert assessments, etc.) to support your claim.

Yes. In this case, you can seek legal advice and file an appeal. If you have any uncertainties or questions before applying, please feel free to contact us. We are happy to support you and help streamline the approval process.

Once the funding is approved and we have met you and your child, we immediately begin searching for the perfect companion. Based on your child's specific needs, they will start their support as quickly as possible.

Before the support begins, there will be a personal introduction with the potential companion, either at your home or at our office. Together, we will then decide if we feel the match is right for a successful collaboration.

A change is fundamentally possible at any time. If you notice any issues, feel uncertain, or perceive changes in your child’s behavior, please reach out to us for a confidential conversation. We will work immediately to find the best solution for your child.

A school companion supports your child during the school routine to help them participate as independently as possible. The focus can be on structuring their workspace, maintaining focus, encouraging social interaction with peers, or de-escalating conflicts. Every instance of support is individually tailored to your child’s unique needs.

In the event of illness or absence, we make every effort to send a qualified substitute as quickly as possible. For this purpose, we utilize on-call relief staff or available team members. However, for short-notice absences, an immediate or seamless replacement cannot always be guaranteed.

Yes. As a rule, the need is re-evaluated each school year and must be re-applied for. The funding provider will supply you with all specific details regarding your individual approval.