Four teachers from our consortium schools (Experimental Primary School of Florina, 5th Primary School of Florina “Theodoros Kastanos”, Primary School of Vevi) recently participated in an enriching job shadowing experience at the Agrupamento de Escolas Madeira Torres in Torres Vedras, Portugal. This mobility gave them the chance to explore innovative teaching practices and exchange ideas with Portuguese colleagues across a wide range of activities.
Our teachers began by observing daily educational practices at EB Carlos Bernardes, a rural primary school, and explored teaching methods in mainstream classrooms. They also visited a special education class, focusing on the development of fine motor skills for students with disabilities, and observed an inspiring animal-assisted therapy session led by a psychologist.
The visit included hands-on experiences in the school garden and animal farm, highlighting how experiential learning can engage students in nature and responsibility. At Escola Secundária Madeira Torres, our teachers observed creative uses of art in education during a student art exhibition and participated in a robotics workshop, collaborating with students on programming and construction activities.
The mobility also fostered creativity through a “Story Factory” workshop, blending visual arts with creative writing, and an “Art Factory” session at the Torres Vedras Municipal Library, encouraging cultural exchange and expression.
Collaborating with their Portuguese colleagues, the teachers co-designed ideas for future Erasmus+ and eTwinning mobility activities, laying the groundwork for future projects and partnerships. They also attended a Cinema Club session, learning how film projects can empower students to become digital storytellers.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the staff and students of Agrupamento de Escolas Madeira Torres for their warm hospitality, insightful guidance, and inspiring examples of inclusive and innovative education. This job shadowing experience not only strengthened our teachers’ professional development but also reinforced our shared commitment to fostering creativity, inclusion, and intercultural dialogue in our classrooms. We’re excited to bring these fresh ideas and perspectives back to our schools and to continue building bridges across Europe.
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