Welcome to the new director in Munich

We are very happy to welcome the new director of the primary school, Mrs Alexia Giannakopoulou, to the ES Munich. One sunny Monday afternoon during the European Hours we had the privilege to get to know her better…

Now you are the director of the Primary School in the ESM. What did you do before you came here?

Before I started at the ESM I was a school advisor and teacher trainer in Athens in Greece.

How did you end up working in the educational system?

I always wanted to become a teacher. I love working with children and I like to share my knowledge and personal experiences.

What was your first impression of our school? If you had three wishes for the new school in Fasangarten what would it be?

It was love at first sight! I would like that our new primary school will be filled with happy children. I wish that we can welcome even more children to our European School and I would be happy if we could teach more European languages.

Describe yourself in 3 words.

Creative. Passionate. Hard working.

What comes to your mind when you think of your own time as a pupil? What kind of student were you?

I have lots of happy memories. I liked going to school. I was very good at school, but I was very shy.

We know that you are from Greece. What in your opinion is the biggest difference between Germany and Greece? What do you miss the most from your country?

I think life is easier in Germany. The system is more flexible. But I miss the food

Complete the sentences:

When I am not at school I like to… go swimming and hiking.

My favourite dish is… stuffed tomatoes and peppers and I would prefer to share it with… my family.

My favourite colour is… Blue. And when I see this colour… it reminds me of the sea and my country.

If I had a million Euros… I would travel around the world.

Life is… beautiful when you dream big and you make your dreams come true. Life is also beautiful when you do simple things like going out in the sun and spending time with family and friends.

Texts and photos : Senta and Marianne / EE Munich