Finding Balance: Teachers Build Resilience in Porto

Teaching has always been more than just delivering lessons — it’s about managing emotions, navigating challenges, and staying grounded when the pace picks up. In a profession that often asks educators to give endlessly, finding ways to recharge and strengthen emotional resilience is not a luxury, but a necessity. That spirit shaped the week-long course “Stress and Conflict Management: The Way to Resilience and Satisfaction”, held in Porto from 28 September to 4 October 2025.

The course brought together a diverse group of teachers and education professionals from across Europe, creating a space for open discussion, reflection, and practical learning. Participants included Andreja, Katja Zatler, and Urška from OŠ Blaža Kocena Ponikva in Slovenia; Anna and Gunnhildur from Reykjavik University in Iceland; Anna Paola and Samuele from IC Rossella Casini - Scandicci Florence in Italy; Martina from Liceo Classico G.B. Morgagni, also in Italy; and Tuija from Espoon Seudun Koulutuskuntayhtyma Omnia in Finland.

The week began with introductions and an exploration of what stress means — both personally and professionally. Participants identified common triggers in their teaching lives and discussed the physical and emotional impact of stress. Through guided reflection and group conversation, they learned strategies for recognizing early signs of burnout and understanding the balance between challenge and overload.

The second day introduced meditation and mindfulness as tools for staying centered. Participants practiced simple techniques they could later adapt for use with students. The focus then shifted to classroom management, where teachers shared real-life examples of stressful situations and how they handle them. The atmosphere was open, empathetic, and full of mutual support.

By midweek, the group had built strong connections, making it easier to speak honestly about challenges faced in the classroom. This day was devoted to collective problem-solving — participants exchanged coping strategies and built a shared understanding of emotional resilience. The session ended with an introduction to emotional intelligence, laying the groundwork for the following days.

The morning sessions expanded on emotional intelligence — identifying emotions, understanding their impact on communication, and learning how to respond rather than react. Later, participants stepped outside for mindfulness and outdoor activities, finding calm and renewed focus in the natural surroundings. These moments outdoors reminded everyone how valuable it can be to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the present moment.

The final day centered on conflict management and communication skills — essential components of a healthy, collaborative school environment. Through interactive exercises and role-play, participants explored constructive ways to handle tension and misunderstandings, both with colleagues and students.

By the end of the week, the group had not only learned techniques for managing stress and conflict but also rediscovered the value of empathy and connection in teaching. The sessions in Porto provided more than strategies — they offered space for personal growth, mutual support, and renewed energy to bring back home. Participants left with practical tools, a deeper sense of balance, and a shared commitment to fostering resilience within their schools and classrooms.

Discover more about this course here.