Continuing the implementation of the project (Sustainability: Learn, change, live – One future for all) in the Erasmus + program, teachers and the headmaster from our school as well as partners from Spain, Turkey, Portugal, Greece, Poland and Italy met in Altamura, Italy. This meeting was held on March 21-25.
At the beginning, we got acquainted with the Italian school. We had the opportunity to visit the entire school, and learn about their work methods and the tools they use on a daily basis. It made a huge impression on us. We were greeted very enthusiastically.
We participated in the classes and had the opportunity to see the school, including richly equipped classrooms. The subject of the meeting was- “We identify and combat pollution.” The students had a great opportunity to present their works and provided specific solutions on this topic in the form of a decalogue. Then the students showed us around the school.
Then we visited Matera. We started our tour in the historic center, we saw how the inhabitants live. We could also see the old Sassi housing estate, which is a gem of ancient Italian architecture, we met the personalities of the Italian school teacher’s father. He showed us his lithography-related workshop – a vanishing profession – it turned out that he collaborates with artists in Cracow! Our students showed great interest in his works. Later we looked into various corners of Matera, where we discovered the beauty and richness of this European pearl. We will certainly share this information with our students as part of the dissemination of the project results.
Then we trained in the field of integration games and games through workshops. These workshops were led by partners. We have rediscovered that introducing games and activities in the process of integration and team building is the key to effective and efficient learning. We learned interesting methods to increase the motivation of our students. The next day, we witnessed a performance by Italian students at a local theater. It was an evening full of singing and music at a very high level. Our countries were presented to the local audience.
We also had the opportunity to meet Alberobello, Trani and Castel del Monte – real gems of European architecture. We got to know the local culture and saw their way of life closely. Some examples are worth following, especially their leisurely lives and as balanced as the title of our project.
The last day is a summary of the meeting, project activities carried out so far, the degree of achievement of goals, division of responsibilities into future activities, setting the dates of future meetings and an analysis of the threat resulting from the Covid -19 pandemic. We also performed an initial evaluation and identified the strengths and weaknesses of the project. Unfortunately, this great educational adventure was quickly over. During the farewell, the young people were very moved and crystal tears poured down their cheeks. They promised that in a year they would meet again in the implementation of future projects.
This meeting was the second important step in this wonderful adventure. We have proved that despite our cultural differences, we understand each other very well and we chose the right direction for the benefit of our students. We have shown that there are no artificial borders in Europe and that there is only one human race – Homo-Sapiens!
