Pädagogischer Austauschdienst (Educational Exchange Service)

"Exchange Creates Education” is the motto of the Pedagogical Exchange Service (PAD) of the Secretariat of the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs, based in Bonn. International exchange in the school sector promotes European and international competence, openness to the world and tolerance, language learning, and an appreciation for the German language and culture abroad among participants. PAD programs enable cross-border cooperation between institutions and individuals in the school sector at European and international levels and contribute to improving the quality of teaching and learning.

The PAD operates on behalf of the Länder. It connects and coordinates their interests and maintains close relationships with partner organizations in numerous countries worldwide. Thanks to the professional competence and pedagogical expertise of its staff, it serves as a point of contact for schools not only regarding individual programs but also on topics related to school exchange. In addition, it advises ministries, authorities, and foundations on the development and enhancement of exchange programs.

The PAD primarily promotes school exchanges and school partnerships, professional development and training for teachers, students - especially those studying to become teachers (as foreign language assistants) - and voluntary services for young adults, as well as outstanding pupils. Participation by interested individuals from Germany in these exchange programs is decided by the education ministries or senate administrations of the federal states, or by the PAD itself.

The PAD is responsible for providing information, advice, and placement for interested parties and program participants. It is also in charge of managing funding, as well as evaluating and further developing the programs.

As an intermediary in Germany’s foreign cultural and educational policy (AKBP) and a partner of the Federal Foreign Office, the PAD is involved in initiatives such as “Schools: Partners for the Future” (PASCH) and the voluntary service program “kulturweit.” As the National Agency for EU programs, it implements the Erasmus+ program in the school sector. Within the Erasmus framework, the PAD also promotes digital exchange through eTwinning.

The work is financed through funds provided by the federal states, the Federal Foreign Office, the European Commission, and other cooperation partners. These include or have included the U.S. State Department, the Deutsche Telekom Foundation, the German UNESCO Commission, and the American Association of Teachers of German (AATG).

The funds are administered by the PAD and distributed to participants or grant recipients—primarily schools. In some programs, funds are provided directly by the federal states or cooperation partners.

The PAD currently employs around 85 full-time and part-time staff members