“The experience of Erasmus in Slovenia”

The international exchange under the Erasmus+ project, which took place from May 27th to 31st, reached Bohinj in Slovenia. Six students from the “Piątka” group demonstrated knowledge and language skills necessary for communicating with their peers from partner schools in Spain, Italy, Turkey, and Slovenia.

Following the main idea of the project promoting reading among youth, participants took part in workshops on handmade paper production, calligraphy, and had an interesting “encounter” with old printing machines. They visited a modern library in Kranj, where a creative action promoting the place due to its functionality was organized. Visitors could not only borrow books but also read newspapers while enjoying a cup of coffee or tea. The youngest ones could make use of the play area connected to the library. Multimedia presentations about different countries and cities titled “Where do we come from?” exchange of instructions for traditional games to play during breaks, collective play, and interpretation of quotes chosen by students from “The Little Prince” filled their time diligently.

Excursions during the stay allowed participants to explore the rich tradition, culture, and beautiful nature of this mountainous region of Slovenia. The hospitable reception in homes and schools decorated with illustrations and quotes from “The Little Prince” ensured that this type of experiential learning and education within an international group brings tangible results. It gives the sense that although there may be differences within the education systems of European countries, when it comes to raising children, everyone strives to teach tolerance, openness, creativity, and a sense of community. These conclusions are evidence of the well-utilized opportunity by teachers involved in the project on the Polish side: coordinator Ms. Justyna Paliga, Ms. Marta Szewczyk, Ms. Ewa Kowalska, and director Elżbieta Gocyła.