From March 17th to 21st, 2025, eight students and four accompanying teachers from the Experimental Primary School and the 5th Primary School of Florina participated in an unforgettable group mobility experience hosted by Thomas Moore School in Palermo, Italy. The students were warmly welcomed into local families, immersing themselves in the vibrant culture of Sicily and engaging in a diverse range of activities designed to promote intercultural understanding, creativity, and responsible citizenship.
The program began with a Welcome Concert and Official Welcome, where participants experienced live music and formal speeches, setting the tone for a week of intercultural exchange. The students then had the opportunity to share their own passions through Student Presentations, strengthening their public speaking and communication skills in a truly international setting.
The mobility also included an interactive visit to Museo Pasqualino, where students observed a live puppet-making demonstration, deepening their understanding of Sicilian cultural heritage. A highlight of the week was the Presentation of the Stop-Motion & Digital Comics Project by the Greek Students, which showcased their creativity and storytelling skills to their peers.
Collaboration and creativity were at the heart of the Interactive Storytelling Workshop, where students co-created narratives with their international peers. Playful learning continued during the Traditional Games Exchange, allowing students to learn new games and respect each other’s traditions through cooperative play.
Cultural exploration was a key part of the mobility, with a guided tour of Palermo’s historic center and a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Cefalù Cathedral and town, where students experienced the region’s rich multicultural history and architectural diversity. They also took part in a photo treasure hunt, sharpening their observation skills and teamwork abilities.
The experience also emphasized environmental responsibility. During a beach picnic and environmental awareness discussion, students reflected on marine pollution and sustainability, followed by a beach cleanup activity that allowed them to put their environmental commitment into action.
The most exciting creative challenge of the week was the Storyboard Creation and Stop-Motion Trial activity. Working in international teams, students crafted storyboards, built characters and scenery from recycled materials, and experimented with stop-motion animation to bring their collaborative stories to life.
The week concluded with a certificate ceremony and multicultural party, a joyful celebration of new friendships and achievements. Participants reflected on their experiences, shared traditional foods, and strengthened bonds that transcended national borders.
Throughout the week, students developed a wide range of competences and skills: they honed their communication and public speaking abilities, gained deeper intercultural awareness, practiced teamwork and environmental responsibility, and explored new creative methods. This mobility fostered not only knowledge and skills but also a sense of European identity and appreciation for cultural diversity.
We’re proud of our students and teachers for embracing this opportunity with open minds and hearts—and we extend our sincere thanks to the wonderful hosts in Palermo for their warm hospitality and inspiring program!
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