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Effective communication and soft skills are essential for teachers and education staff, both in the classroom and beyond. These courses help participants develop emotional intelligence, teamwork, and public speaking skills through a mix of theory and practice. The new edition of the combined courses “Soft Skills and Emotional Intelligence for teachers and education staff” and “Effective Communication and Public Speaking for teachers and education staff” took place in Bologna from 26/01/2025 to 01/02/2025. The participants came from all across Europe, including Callum Mayler from School Street and Thomas Court Bawn Family Resources Centre CLG in Ireland; Ieva Kokareviča, Iveta Hamchanovska, and Kaiva Veita from Siguldas Novada Bibliotēka in Latvia; Aleksandra Korytowska-Maciejewska from the Medical University of Poznań in Poland; Emma Terradellas Rodríguez from Departament d’Educació - Inspecció SGIE in Spain; Pop Adriana, Sabau Diana, Rakos-Ile Simona Maria, and Pop Mihaiela Cristina from Inspectoratul Școlar Județean Maramureș in România; Sara Sánchez from CEPA Gloria Fuertes in Spain; and Charikleia Gouveli from the Regional Directorate of Primary and Secondary Education of Epirus in Greece. Introduction to Soft Skills marked the beginning of the course, emphasizing their importance in both professional and personal life. To foster engagement, participants used a public speech activity to introduce themselves, combining self-expression with an opportunity to practice speaking in front of an audience. The next session focused on Emotional Intelligence, highlighting the ability to recognize and manage both personal and others’ emotions. Through interactive exercises, participants explored empathy, self-control, and self-motivation, essential qualities for building meaningful connections inside and outside the classroom. Continuing with Effective Communication and Assertiveness, participants examined different communication styles--aggressive, passive, passive-aggressive, and assertive—and discussed the importance of expressing oneself clearly and confidently while maintaining respect and professionalism. Developing strong Public Speaking skills was another key aspect of the course. Participants learned techniques to enhance body language, control nonverbal communication, and structure their speeches effectively. To put these skills into practice, they prepared and delivered a short speech, gaining confidence in speaking before an audience. To reinforce what they had learned, participants engaged in another public speech exercise, focusing on different speech structures.  The final session emphasized Conflict Management, addressing the challenges of working with others and handling difficult situations. By sharing personal experiences, participants realized that conflicts do not always lead to negative outcomes but can instead foster growth and development when managed effectively.
Discover more about this course here. Did you know that play is considered a crucial component of cognitive development from birth through adulthood? Think about your favorite games: isn’t it true that you never get tired of playing them? Whether it’s hide and seek, puzzles, construction games, or board games, there are invisible threads linking our memories, experiences, and feelings to playing games—all connected to the intrinsic motivation and engagement they trigger in our minds! The new edition of the course “Discover the power of Game Based Learning and Gamification in Education” took place in Bologna from 26/01/2025 to 01/02/2025. The participants came from across Europe, with Mette Strømfeldt, Angela Foli Andersen, Margit Mosgaard Jensen, and Mikkel Andersen from Hf and VUC Roskilde-Køge in Denmark; Georgia Georgiades from D’ Primary School Limassol KA in Cyprus; and Manica Kolar and Polona Pevec Pungeršek from Osnovna šola Kozje in Slovenia.  Their training week was structured like a game, following a sequence of levels from the very beginning. As if starting a video game, we asked participants to create their own characters to join the game. Using AI-generated avatars, symbolic characters, and new superheroes, participants introduced themselves while sharing their strengths and passions. This activity highlighted the rich diversity of the group, perfectly reflecting the reality of every classroom. In the first level, participants got to know each other, explored course expectations, and discussed the value of playing games in education. They reflected on how the relationship with technology has evolved, the main traits of different generations in learning and approaching technology, and the new skills modern teachers need. The session concluded with brainstorming on motivation in playful contexts. The second level focused on game-based solutions and the gamification framework. Participants clarified the difference between gamification and game-based learning and explored game elements applicable in gamified lessons. Through a storytelling-based group activity, they delved into the Octalysis Model and its core drives of human motivation. They also experimented with creating badges and evaluated their effectiveness as a tool in gamified lessons. The third level was all about Escape Rooms. Participants tested escape room activities, analyzed their key ingredients, and worked in groups on Escape Room Quests. They then learned how to design their own digital escape rooms. The fourth level incorporated gamification into both outdoor and indoor activities, allowing participants to experience firsthand how play-based strategies can enhance engagement in different learning environments.  The final level was dedicated to applying gamification directly to lesson planning. Participants worked in a hands-on workshop to test tools, finalize their escape rooms and activities, and reflect on their learning journey.
Having overcome all the levels of our game, participants discovered new ways to integrate both traditional and modern games into the learning process. They left with a fresh set of online tools, new perspectives on engagement, and innovative strategies to bring a spark into their classrooms! Discover more about this course here. A teacher's role is to educate students by sharing knowledge and helping them develop essential skills. A coach, in contrast, provides support and motivation through active listening, thoughtful questioning, and presenting challenges. While these roles may appear distinct, integrating coaching methods into teaching could greatly enhance a teacher’s ability to inspire and engage students. This concept was fundamental during the new edition of the course “Emotional intelligence and coaching inside the school and educational context” that took place in Bologna from 19/01/2025 - 25/01/2025. The participants came from all across Europe, with Anya Pålsson, Kanarya Veleva, Alba Mayorga, and Ingrid Dageson from Komvux LUND in Sweden. Also Merilin Nigumann from Saku Gümnaasium in Estonia.  The training program began with an introduction to the fundamental principles of coaching, focusing on how these techniques can be applied to personal growth and self-improvement. Participants explored various practical tools to "coach" themselves, gaining insights into their own strengths, resources, and areas for development. Through reflective exercises, they examined strategies for increasing self-awareness and finding balance in different aspects of their lives. This initial session set the stage for understanding coaching as a process that fosters personal and professional growth.
A structured approach to questioning was introduced through the GROW model, a widely used coaching framework that helps individuals set and achieve goals. This model encourages learners to explore their current reality, consider various options, and establish a clear course of action. Alongside this, conflict management strategies were discussed, focusing on the role of self-awareness and emotional control in preventing and resolving conflicts. Participants learned that conflicts do not always have to lead to negative outcomes; when managed effectively, they can foster personal growth and improved relationships. Instead of providing direct solutions, educators were encouraged to guide students through conflict analysis and decision-making processes, helping them develop problem-solving skills. The final part of the training emphasized the use of coaching tools to encourage positive communication, both within oneself and in interactions with students. Participants examined techniques for fostering a supportive classroom atmosphere where students feel heard, valued, and motivated. The discussions and practical exercises throughout the program reinforced the idea that coaching is not just about offering guidance but about empowering individuals to find their own answers and develop confidence in their abilities.  Throughout the training, participants had the opportunity to share experiences and perspectives, gaining valuable insights from diverse cultural backgrounds. This collaborative exchange enhanced the learning process, allowing for a deeper understanding of how coaching principles can be integrated into various educational settings. By the end of the program, participants had acquired a set of practical tools to apply coaching techniques effectively, improving both their teaching practices and their personal development.  Discover more about this course here.
During these past years, traditional education had to leave space for virtual lessons. Because of this, we had to adapt and think about a new way to teach and learn remotely. In this case, using new technologies, digital tools, and interactive learning platforms proved to be a winning strategy. These technologies allowed teachers all over the world to maintain an engaging and dynamic environment in virtual classes. The same tools demonstrated their utility inside a real classroom as well, especially when it came to capturing students’ attention and enthusiasm. |
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By the end of the course, everyone left with a solid foundation in interactive learning and the latest digital tools, ready to apply them to their lessons. Their creativity, collaboration, and enthusiasm will undoubtedly lead to a transformation in their teaching practices, increasing student engagement and making learning a dynamic and enjoyable experience.
A big thank you to all the participants for their dedication and eagerness to embrace new technologies!
Your contributions and efforts were invaluable, and we look forward to seeing how you apply these skills in your classrooms.
More info on this course here.
Have you ever considered how yoga could transform your daily routine and improve your well-being? Starting the day with mindfulness, calm breathing, or a simple stretch can create balance not just for individuals but for entire school communities. Yoga offers an accessible way to enhance both personal and professional lives.
The recent session of the course ''Yoga for Teachers and School Staff: Promoting Wellness in the Classroom'', held in Tenerife from 19/01/2025 to 25/01/2025 brought together educators from across Europe. Participants included Anne from Ecole Privée Marie Consolatrice in Luxembourg, Sari and Minna from OSAO Kontinkankaan yksikkö in Finland, Tobias and Agnes from Turebergsskolan in Sweden, Wera and Anne-Sophie from IGS Fürstenau in Germany, Kristin and Cecilia from Østfold University College in Norway, Jan and Caroline-Maria from Studienseminar für das Lehramt an Realschulen plus Trier in Germany, Claudia and Grazia from NIA.
The program began with engaging icebreakers designed to build trust and create a welcoming atmosphere. Participants also explored their initial knowledge through a digital quiz, connecting yoga concepts with their teaching methods and personal wellness objectives. This fun and interactive start set the tone for an inspiring week.
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A foundational introduction to yoga philosophy and terminology helped participants understand the core principles behind this ancient practice. The group also explored scientific studies highlighting the positive impact of mind-body interventions in educational settings, reinforcing the potential of yoga to create supportive and effective learning environments.
Each day of the course featured practical workshops to help integrate yoga into school routines. Mornings began with yoga and meditation sessions, followed by journaling activities where participants reflected on their experiences and set intentions for the day.
Discussions focused on how yoga can support emotional intelligence and stress management, with techniques for enhancing emotional balance and fostering happiness. Breathing exercises (Pranayama) were a key part of the program, providing participants with tools to manage stress and improve mental clarity. Collaborative yoga activities aimed at trust-building in classrooms added an interactive dimension to the training.
A highlight of the week was the outdoor yoga session, where participants practiced mindfulness in a natural setting. This experience underscored the power of connecting with nature to cultivate a sense of presence and tranquility.
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As the course concluded, participants reflected on their growth and shared ideas for incorporating yoga into their classrooms. A practical session allowed them to create personalized yoga routines, equipping them with strategies to reduce stress, enhance focus, and build trust among students and colleagues.
By the end of the week, attendees left not only with new skills and techniques but also with
a renewed sense of purpose and balance. The potential of yoga to transform schools into thriving, harmonious environments is now firmly within their reach.
Learn more about this course here.
It can be challenging for teachers to keep up with the digital skills needed to make language classes exciting and engaging. Using technology in language learning helps students take an active role and work together with their classmates. These tools can be used in many ways, like introducing new topics, reviewing old ones, personalizing lessons, and assessing students. They also encourage creativity by challenging students to create their own projects and ideas.
This edition of the course “Teaching languages in the digital era: the best apps, web platforms and ICT solutions for learning languages” took place in Bologna from 12/01/2025 to 18/01/2025. The participants were coming from across Europe: with Ana and Borja from Europaskolan Södermalm, Sweden, then Diana from Eesti keel teise keelene õpetajate liit in Estonia; Ellen from Netherlands’ University of Applied Sciences Utrecht, and finally Aurelija and Loreta from Lithuania’s Gymnazium of Prezident Antanas Smetona.
This edition of the course “Teaching languages in the digital era: the best apps, web platforms and ICT solutions for learning languages” took place in Bologna from 12/01/2025 to 18/01/2025. The participants were coming from across Europe: with Ana and Borja from Europaskolan Södermalm, Sweden, then Diana from Eesti keel teise keelene õpetajate liit in Estonia; Ellen from Netherlands’ University of Applied Sciences Utrecht, and finally Aurelija and Loreta from Lithuania’s Gymnazium of Prezident Antanas Smetona.
 | During this course, participants explored a wide range of technological tools and learned how to incorporate them effectively into their teaching strategies. These tools are valuable not only for boosting engagement and motivation but also for tracking progress in areas such as vocabulary acquisition, communication, and independent learning. The course offered numerous hands-on activities, allowing participants to experiment with these tools directly. For example, they participated in a live quiz while learning how to design interactive language quizzes using web-based applications. Flashcards, for instance, were highlighted as an effective way to enhance vocabulary and spelling skills. |
| Participants were introduced to various web platforms for creating language-focused presentations. They had the opportunity to develop and showcase their own projects in a supportive and stimulating environment, equipping them to apply these methods in their classrooms. Additionally, the course covered tools that help organize and summarize lesson content, prepare grammar presentations, ask questions, and maintain students’ focus, particularly useful in the current era of remote learning. Platforms for creating worksheets and instructional videos were also explored, making it easy to produce engaging teaching materials. Participants also delved into tools like digital whiteboards for collaborative work, applications for interactive presentations, and resources for creating quizzes and video lessons tailored to language teaching. |  |
The course introduced the role of artificial intelligence in education, featuring tools such as ChatGPT and other AI-driven platforms designed to enrich lessons. These technologies support both students and teachers by enhancing skills like reading, listening, grammar, and speaking.
Interactive worksheets and multimedia resources, including visual tools for designing activities like escape rooms, were also discussed to make learning more dynamic and enjoyable. Participants discovered platforms that enable teachers to add voiceovers, questions, and commentary to videos, turning them into comprehensive learning tools. Tools for editing images and videos were explored, demonstrating how they can be used to create multimedia content, introduce new topics, review previous material, and inspire students to produce their own creative work.
While learning a language can be demanding, integrating the right technological tools into the classroom can greatly improve motivation, engagement, and learning outcomes, transforming lessons into truly immersive experiences.
Discover more about this course here.
Working effectively in a team is often a challenging endeavor. Diverse personalities, miscommunications, and undefined roles can all disrupt group harmony and decrease productivity. To address these challenges, the objective of this course was to provide participants with a range of skills to enhance teamwork efficiency while fostering a positive and collaborative workplace environment. By engaging in this course, participants gained valuable insights into becoming more effective team leaders and members, whether working within classrooms or professional environments.
This course, titled “Effective Group Management in education: building Teamwork among students” was held in Tenerife from 12/01/2025 to 18/01/2025. This event brought together a diverse group of educators from across Europe, including Krista Unt from Tallinn 21st School in Estonia; Giuseppe Gennaro, Patrizia Zummo, and Grazia Valenti from I.C. Luigi Capuana in Italy; and Kaoutar Nidam from NIA in Italy as well.
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Throughout the course, participants explored various facets of teamwork and leadership. The journey began by examining the distinction between a group and a team. Participants learned that not all groups can be classified as teams, as a defining characteristic of a team is its shared objective. This realization emphasized the importance of prioritizing the common goal, a key principle for any team leader. Participants were also introduced to the different developmental stages of a team and the unique characteristics of each phase. Understanding these stages equips leaders with strategies to navigate potential conflicts and challenges effectively.
The second focus of the course centered on the critical role of team roles. Through interactive group exercises, participants experienced the challenges of working without clearly defined roles and responsibilities. This lack of clarity often leads to confusion, miscommunication, and unnecessary tension, ultimately wasting valuable time and leaving team members uncertain about their contributions. By addressing this, participants gained practical tools to establish clear roles and foster a sense of purpose within their teams.
Midway through the week, the course shifted focus to the essentials of effective leadership and the importance of having empathy. Participants discovered that successful leadership requires adaptability and an in-depth understanding of both individual strengths and the dynamics of the group. The course underscored that there isn’t a single “right” way to lead; instead, various leadership style that can be applied depending on the situation and the team’s needs.The class explored the basics of coaching, learning to use a growth mindset approach to motivate their teams and sustain a positive atmosphere.
One of the final topics covered was the implementation of peer feedback and peer assessment strategies in the classroom. Peer learning empowers students to take an active role in their education, emphasizing the learning process over grades. Participants engaged in activities that allowed them to experience these strategies from a student’s perspective, enhancing their understanding and ability to apply these techniques effectively in their classrooms.
The week concluded on a high note, with participants reflecting on the wealth of knowledge, practical tools, and best practices they had gained. The atmosphere throughout the course was dynamic andcollaborative, with plenty of opportunities for networking and cultural exchange. Each participant left with a refreshed perspective and a toolkit of strategies they can confidently implement in their educational settings.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the participants for their enthusiasm and commitment. It was a pleasure to share this journey with such passionate and dedicated educators. We are confident that the skills and experiences gained during this week will have a lasting impact on their classrooms and professional lives.
More info on this course here.
The traditional role of a teacher is to impart knowledge and help students develop essential skills. However, a coach adopts a different approach: they support and inspire learners by listening, asking questions, and motivating them to reach their full potential. But what if teachers incorporated coaching principles into their classrooms and became motivators too?
This concept was central to the recent edition of the course " Coaching skills for teachers, school and adult education staff", held in Tenerife from 12/01/2025 to 18/01/2025. Participants from various corners of Europe came together for the training, bringing a rich blend of perspectives. Among them were Friederike and Sabine from Europaschule am Friedenspark in Germany, and Sandra from Berufliche Oberschule Wasserburh also in Germany; Merris from Tallin 21st School in Estonia; Dercia and Herminia representing Exemplos Sábios in Portugal; Zulfija, Birgita, and Kristina from Šiaulių sporto gimna in Lithuania.
This concept was central to the recent edition of the course " Coaching skills for teachers, school and adult education staff", held in Tenerife from 12/01/2025 to 18/01/2025. Participants from various corners of Europe came together for the training, bringing a rich blend of perspectives. Among them were Friederike and Sabine from Europaschule am Friedenspark in Germany, and Sandra from Berufliche Oberschule Wasserburh also in Germany; Merris from Tallin 21st School in Estonia; Dercia and Herminia representing Exemplos Sábios in Portugal; Zulfija, Birgita, and Kristina from Šiaulių sporto gimna in Lithuania.
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The first topic covered during the course was Emotional Intelligence, which refers to the ability to recognize and understand not only one’s own emotions but also those of others. Emotionally intelligent teachers can connect with their students on a deeper level, helping them better manage their feelings and navigate challenges.
Coaching, on the other hand, is about empowering individuals to become the best versions of themselves. To build coaching skills, participants learned how to set SMART goals—specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound. They practiced crafting these goals to improve both personal and professional development.
Coaching, on the other hand, is about empowering individuals to become the best versions of themselves. To build coaching skills, participants learned how to set SMART goals—specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound. They practiced crafting these goals to improve both personal and professional development.
| Participants also delved into the power of questions. Thoughtful questions can spark reflection, foster creativity, and inspire meaningful action. The course emphasized crafting learning-focused questions by inviting engagement, proposing specific content, and encouraging cognitive exploration. |  |
Conflict management was another crucial coaching skill explored during the training. Self-awareness and emotional regulation are key to preventing conflicts from escalating. Rather than being inherently negative, conflicts can lead to growth and positive change. A coach’s role is to facilitate dialogue and guide students in analyzing the situation, identifying solutions, and reflecting on their actions—without imposing their own solutions.
This week-long training allowed participants to share experiences, learn from diverse cultural perspectives, and enhance their coaching skills while discovering how to implement them effectively in their classrooms.
Learn more about this course here
This week-long training allowed participants to share experiences, learn from diverse cultural perspectives, and enhance their coaching skills while discovering how to implement them effectively in their classrooms.
Learn more about this course here
It is not always easy to keep the classroom motivated, engaged and enthusiast when it comes to teaching. This is when ICT tools such as apps and web platforms become essential in helping teachers to communicate and transfer knowledge while also maintaining their students’ full attention. Nowadays it is fundamental to know our way around interactive learning so that we can offer our students an alternative and non traditional style of learning and keep them engaged.
The new edition of the course “Integrating ICT and new technologies into teaching and education” took place in Bologna from 12/01/2025 - 18/01/2025The participants came from all across Europe, with Claudia Friesecke and Kristiane Karlovic from Steinbeisschule Stuttgart (Germany), Primož Potočnik and Črtomir Čelan from Knjižnica Ivana Potrča Ptuj (Slovenia), Ana Paula Barbosa Samarão, Cristina Maria Pereira Cândido and Maria Manuela Antunes Teixeira from Agrupamento de Escolas Emídio Navarro (Portugal), Paula Saastamoinen and Hanna Sova from OSAO (Finland), Paolo Pozzi from OŠ DANTE ALIGHIERI IZOLA (Slovenia), Bartosz Juzyk from Poznan University of Medical Sciences (Poland).
During this course, the participants learnt how to use a vast range of technological tools and to put them into use by integrating them into their teaching methods.
The new edition of the course “Integrating ICT and new technologies into teaching and education” took place in Bologna from 12/01/2025 - 18/01/2025The participants came from all across Europe, with Claudia Friesecke and Kristiane Karlovic from Steinbeisschule Stuttgart (Germany), Primož Potočnik and Črtomir Čelan from Knjižnica Ivana Potrča Ptuj (Slovenia), Ana Paula Barbosa Samarão, Cristina Maria Pereira Cândido and Maria Manuela Antunes Teixeira from Agrupamento de Escolas Emídio Navarro (Portugal), Paula Saastamoinen and Hanna Sova from OSAO (Finland), Paolo Pozzi from OŠ DANTE ALIGHIERI IZOLA (Slovenia), Bartosz Juzyk from Poznan University of Medical Sciences (Poland).
During this course, the participants learnt how to use a vast range of technological tools and to put them into use by integrating them into their teaching methods.
First, they explored interactive and collaborative whiteboards, which allowed them to get to know each other and begin sharing best practices. These tools foster engagement and provide a platform for teachers to create dynamic and collaborative learning experiences.
On the following day, the focus shifted to tools for creating interactive presentations and video lessons. Such tools are highly effective for teaching and can serve various purposes: preparing multimedia content, introducing a new subject, or summarizing an old one. Video presentations, in particular, are extremely helpful for energizing students and capturing their attention.
Midweek, participants dove into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence, including the use of ChatGPT. This session offered insights into how AI can support teaching by generating ideas, creating engaging content, and enhancing overall classroom interaction.
On the following day, the focus shifted to tools for creating interactive presentations and video lessons. Such tools are highly effective for teaching and can serve various purposes: preparing multimedia content, introducing a new subject, or summarizing an old one. Video presentations, in particular, are extremely helpful for energizing students and capturing their attention.
Midweek, participants dove into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence, including the use of ChatGPT. This session offered insights into how AI can support teaching by generating ideas, creating engaging content, and enhancing overall classroom interaction.
On the fourth day, the group worked with tools designed to create engaging quizzes, emphasizing their use in formative assessment. Practical activities included experimenting with virtual quizzes to make assessments both fun and educational for students.
The final day was dedicated to exploring tools that integrate AI, focusing on how these can transform classroom practices. These advanced tools allow teachers to enhance creativity, improve efficiency, and support personalized learning experiences.
Throughout the course, participants also engaged in hands-on activities such as creating social media content, organizing graphics, designing posters and collages, and much more. These practical experiences allowed them to dive into the technological world and discover tools that make learning more dynamic.
The final day was dedicated to exploring tools that integrate AI, focusing on how these can transform classroom practices. These advanced tools allow teachers to enhance creativity, improve efficiency, and support personalized learning experiences.
Throughout the course, participants also engaged in hands-on activities such as creating social media content, organizing graphics, designing posters and collages, and much more. These practical experiences allowed them to dive into the technological world and discover tools that make learning more dynamic.
This course enabled participants to exchange ideas and learn from one another’s experiences. They left with new knowledge of interactive learning and a fresh set of tools, ready to implement them in their classrooms. There is no doubt that this approach will boost students’ creativity, engagement, attention, and motivation, transforming learning into a fun and dynamic activity!
Discover more about this course here.
Discover more about this course here.
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