The title of our project is “Environmental Art,” and our partner school is La Xavière from Lyon.
We continued our project with the group that had already become familiar during their stay in Tornio. The students stayed with the families of their French friends, getting to experience ordinary French daily life and compare the cultures of different countries. Some of the Finnish students also know the basics of French, giving them an opportunity to use those language skills as well.
We went on excursions to various districts of Lyon. Founded in 43 BC, Lyon offers over two thousand years of history. Among other sites, we visited the Fourvière hill and the Bellecour area. Using public transportation was a new experience for the students. Metros, trains, and trams quickly became familiar while commuting to school and making trips. We were accompanied by one participant with mobility restrictions, who moved partly by wheelchair and partly with walking poles. The city did not prove to be fully accessible.
One day, we headed to Lyon’s historic silk district, La Croix-Rousse, located on a hill of the same name in the northern part of the city. It is particularly known for its silk weavers, called Canuts. Their history is still visible in the area through secret passages known as traboules and traditional workshops, whose high windows were designed to accommodate silk looms. We got to explore these secret traboules, which pass through courtyards and residential buildings to connect streets. These passages are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Exploring this district enriched our students’ awareness of old European culture and art, while offering a glimpse into what it was like to be a European citizen as far back as Roman times.
Together with the students, we also visited a sustainable neighborhood called La Confluence in Lyon’s 2nd arrondissement. We learned that over the past 15 years, energy-efficient buildings for both housing and business have been constructed in La Confluence. The design and construction of these buildings have focused especially on eco-friendliness and low carbon emissions. Residents are able to track their consumption in real time using tablets. La Confluence has also emphasized eco-friendly mobility by offering several options for public transit, including trams, buses, shuttle buses, and city bikes. Additionally, multiple electric car-sharing services operate in the area.
At the Musée des Confluences, we first explored how different cultures perceive the creation of the world, followed by a scientific explanation. We were shown fossils and dinosaur remains from different eras. We were also told that the era of the dinosaurs ended with an asteroid impact, and as a reminder of extraterrestrial phenomena, a meteorite was on display. At the museum, we also visited a room where we ourselves felt as if we were on a theater stage. The concept was to show that we live our lives on a stage: we organize our actions, change our roles according to the situation, and create new things. Amidst all this, we must remember the environment and the finite nature of natural resources. In La Confluence, the students learned a great deal about natural sciences, cultures, and environmental issues.
We traveled to Lyon from Paris and back by train. On the return journey, we spent a day in Paris, exploring its famous sights and history.
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“Crossing Borders” Study Trip to Germany 27/4 – 1/5 2026
Finnish students participated in the “Crossing Borders” language exchange in Übach-Palenberg, Germany, located right on the border of Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Students stayed with host families and used English as their shared language, which improved their verbal and written communication skills through travel diaries and group assignments.
Key Visits and Destinations
European Parliament (Brussels): Students met MEPs Katri Kulmuni and Dr. Sabine Verheyen. The visit strengthened the students’ European identity, encouraged active citizenship, and highlighted the importance of political cooperation.
Former NATO Headquarters (Maastricht): The group explored a secret Cold War-era command center and its tunnels, providing real-world perspective on history lessons learned in class.
Aachen Climbing Forest: Students pushed their personal limits on challenging high-ropes courses, which built team spirit and offered a chance to compare German and Northern Finnish nature.
Project Work and School Life
“Voices across borders” Podcasts: Working in international pairs, students created podcasts about the impact of the Schengen Agreement on border crossings (comparing Germany–Netherlands and Finland–Sweden). They incorporated interviews with German grandparents and researched historical changes.
School Culture: At the Carolus-Magnus-Gymnasium, students took part in Europe Week activities, regular lessons, and an EU simulation game. They also learned about student-led initiatives, such as the school’s first-aid team, mediation program, and vegetable gardens.
The trip successfully enhanced the students’ intercultural competence, digital and language skills, and practical understanding of history and civics. -
13–18 April 2026 (Sicily)
24 Nov 2025 – 12 Nov 2025 (Aachen)
Joint report by the Liceo Scientifico Ettore Majorana and St. Leonhard Gymnasium AachenAs part of an Erasmus+ mobility project, students from both schools met in Scordia (Sicily) to work together on a theatre and performance project and to gain intercultural experience.
The focus was on working with masks designed and created by the participants themselves. Through body language, gestures, and expression, the German-Italian groups developed joint scenes, which were presented in short performances at the end.
In addition to the project work, the students also explored cultural highlights such as Syracuse, Caltagirone, and Agrigento. Living with host families was particularly impactful, offering an authentic insight into everyday Italian life.
The mobility strengthened creativity, teamwork, and intercultural exchange—and remains a valuable experience for everyone involved.
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From 22 to 27 March 2026 and from 19 to 24 April 2026, students from Gymnasium Sankt Leonhards and IZARRAIZPE Azpeitia had the opportunity to collaborate a joint ERASMUS+ project. The focus of the exchange was on participation – that is, the question of how people can actively engage in society, culture, and community.
Together with their Basque peers, German students explored in depth the importance of co-determination and civic engagement. Through various workshops, discussions, and joint activities, it became clear how essential it is to take responsibility and to participate actively in social life – both within one’s immediate environment and beyond.
A particular highlight of the stay was participation in the Korrika, an impressive relay race across the Basque Country that promotes and supports the Basque language and culture. Over several days and nights, people run continuously – supported by thousands who collectively send a strong message of cultural identity and solidarity. Our students were not only able to observe this unique event, but also to take part in it and experience its special atmosphere first-hand.
The visit to Aachen also offered many memorable experiences: meetings with politicians and representatives of various associations gave students the opportunity to conduct interviews and learn more about personal motivations for civic engagement. Another highlight was an excursion to Brussels, where the students gained insights into European politics as well as the origins and functioning of the European Union.
Encountering a different culture, working together on an important social topic, and the warm welcome from the partner school made the exchange an unforgettable experience. The project clearly demonstrated how vibrant and diverse participation can be – and how important it is to get actively involved.
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IZARRAIZPE IKASTOLA PUBLIKOA DBH (AZPEITIA)
OCTOBER 8th, Wednesday:
- During the day: arrival of participants at Hotel Loiola
- 19:30: meeting participants at the square of Azpeitia.
- 20:30 dinner in Ertz
OCTOBER 9th, Thursday:
- 8:30: Welcome by the Principal at the school and school tour.
- 9:30: Driving to Aittola and hiking to Xoxote (fit ones) or hiking around Aittola (not so fit ones)
- 13:30: Lunch and AGM at Aittola-zar restaurant.
- 16:00-16:30: Driving back to Azpeitia,
- The rest of the afternoon, free. Recommended visit if not seen yet: Loiola, the train museum
- 19:30: Pintxo pote
- 21:00: dinner in Mendizaliek
OCTOBER 10th, Friday:
- 8:30 – 13:00: AGM meeting at Basazabal. (see agenda)
- 13:30: lunch in Sanagustin.
- Afternoon free. Possible excursions: Ekain cave (Zestoa), Zumaia, Zarautz, Donostia.
- 20:30: Dinner at Maite’s club: Basazabal elkartea
OCTOBER 11th, Saturday:
- Departures
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On January 23 until 25, 2025, school leaders and Erasmus coordinators from the EuroSchoolNet2000 network gathered at Carolus-Magnus-Gymnasium in Übach-Palenberg and St. Leonhard Gymnasium in Aachen for their Annual General Meeting (AGM). The focus of this year’s meeting was the planning of new Erasmus mobility opportunities for students and celebrating the anniversary of the network.
Founded 25 years ago by teachers from I.E.S. Santa Maria La Real (Spain), Charlemagne College Eijkhagen (Netherlands), and I.I.S.S. “Ettore Majorana” (Italy), EuroSchoolNet2000 has grown to include 17 schools across Europe. Since its inception, the network has met annually to coordinate and carry out exchange visits as part of the current Erasmus Programme 2021–27.
The meeting opened on Friday at Carolus-Magnus-Gymnasium. Following a warm welcome and a tour of the school, students from the EF (10th grade) presented their student council activities and peer mediation program. The first working session then focused on the organization of EuroSchoolNet, setting the joint agenda, and electing key positions within the network. In the afternoon, participants enjoyed a group excursion to Aachen, where team-building activities were met with great enthusiasm.
On Saturday, the conference continued at St. Leonhard Gymnasium in Aachen. Together with representatives from Italy, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Germany, and Finland, further exchange projects were planned. In her address, Deputy Mayor Hilde Scheidt praised the dedication of teachers and highlighted the valuable opportunities they create for young people to experience a diverse and dynamic Europe first hand.
A subsequent visit to Vogelsang in the Eifel – a historically significant site as a former Nazi training center – once again underscored the importance of European cooperation. The excursion strengthened the participants’ commitment to providing students with meaningful opportunities to experience European collaboration and to fostering partnerships that are more crucial today than ever.
The meeting achieved its goals: Erasmus project trips abroad for the coming school year were successfully arranged. Students will be hosted by local families, giving them the chance to experience a new school system and daily life in another country. In this way, they gain fresh perspectives on Europe and develop a deeper understanding of the European dimension. Through joint projects, they will also explore how participation is practiced at partner schools, while being encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and engage openly with new families and communities across Europe.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of this event, with special gratitude to Deputy Mayor Scheidt for her words of encouragement. Our appreciation also goes to all schools within EuroSchoolNet2000 for their outstanding cooperation and support. We look forward to many more fruitful exchange projects in the years ahead.
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Erasmus+ Ka01 – I.S. “E. Majorana” Scordia – IES Santa Maria La Real Aguilar de Campoo
Nell’ambito delle attività di partenariato internazionale del nostro istituto, dal 30 Marzo al 6 Aprile, abbiamo ospitato una delegazione composta da 23 studenti e da due insegnanti provenienti dall’IES Santa Maria La Real di Aguilar de Campoo in Castilla Leon, Spagna.
Nei giorni di permanenza presso la nostra istituzione scolastica, gli studenti della scuola spagnola hanno partecipato ad una serie di attività scolastiche volte a consolidare la convivenza pacifica tra i popoli e lo spirito di inclusione nell’ottica di un rafforzamento dei valori legati alla cittadinanza europea; la musica, lo sport e il rispetto dell’ambiente agevoleranno il raggiungimento di tali obiettivi.
Con la IES Santa Maria la Real facciamo parte del network internazionale euroschoolnet2000 ed effettuiamo scambi culturali da oltre 20 anni.
La settimana si è aperta, giovedì 31 Marzo, con un incontro di benvenuto presieduto dalla Dirigente Scolastica, prof.ssa Ornella Sipala, del coordinatore delle attività internazionali, prof. Salvatore Di Stefano, degli insegnanti coinvolti nel progetto. All’incontro ha partecipato il sindaco Francesco Barchitta.
Durante la settimana la delegazione ha visitato i luoghi di maggiore interesse artistico e culturali della nostra aerea: Piazza Armerina, Caltagirone, Siracusa, Parco dell’Etna, Taormina, Catania, sempre con uno sguardo particolare alle problematiche della convivenza civile nella società attuale e nel passato.
Assai interessante la visita al centro di accoglienza per minori non accompagnati “Nelson Mandela di Carlentini”.
Gli studenti stranieri sono stati ospitati dalle famiglie dei nostri alunni.
Gli alunni della nostra scuola coinvolti nello scambio culturale, partiranno per Aguilar de Campoo il 27 Aprile 2022, ospiti a loro volta delle famiglie spagnole.
Il Coordinatore delle attività Internazionali
Prof. Salvatore Di Stefano
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AGM 2020-2022 PROGRAMME:
DAY/TIME ACTIVITY PLACE/ROOM WEDNESDAY
28-09-2022ARRIVAL AND WELCOME HOTEL VALENTÍN THURSDAY
29-09-2022AGM MONASTERIO SANTA MARÍA LA REAL 8.30 Arrival at school 9.00 Meeting:
Welcome
Apologies
Minutes of previous meetings
Situation in the different countries
Website update
Membership developments
Naming a new secretary
Next AGM date and venue
AOBREFECTORIO 11.30 Coffee break 12.00 Application for Accreditation and other possible projects. Contacts with schools. REFECTORIO 13.30 End of the meeting 14.00 Lunch and informal contacts “EL SOCAYO” BAR 17.00 Visit to the monastery and Rom museum. Walk to the castle and Santa Cecilia. 20.00 Dinner EL CONVENTO DE MAVE FRIDAY 30-09-2022 DEPARTURES -
In Memorian
It think it was Lyon where I first met Graham. Then many times in Newport, Tornio, Lezno, Scordia, Catania, Langraaf, Aguilar, Azkoitia, Azpeitia… with all the other colleagues of Euro School Net 2000. We hit it off right away. Not so difficult to get on great with Graham though. Graham was a historian and a teacher by trade, and a great conversationalist and amusing fine gentleman by character. A perfect blend. He loved football, cricket, golf… We always enjoyed a pint and a good laugh together while talking about history, sports, teaching, European projects, nonsense… Never missed to send me long e-mails at Christmas or whenever I wrote to him for whatever reason. He told me about his Pat, his parents, his sister… Persons I didn’t know but he told me as if I did, and I thank him for that. He always left a hint of his humour and his views on history or politics. All that is gone now, and I can’t help thinking I will no longer be able to share all those things with him again.
I remember some time ago I read “A Short History of Nearly Everything”. In a chapter about atoms you could read: “They are also fantastically durable. Because they are so long-lived, atoms really get around. Every atom you possess has almost certainly passed through several stars and been part of millions of organisms on its way to becoming you. We are each so atomically numerous and so vigorously recycled at death that a significant number of our atoms – up to a billion for each of us, it has been suggested – probably once belonged to Shakespeare. A billion more each came from Buddha and Genghis Khan and Beethoven, and any other historical figure you care to name.” I am quite certain that Graham’s atoms came from nice persons and will pass on to make nice persons again.
Wherever you are, Graham, you are in the hearts of everyone who was so lucky to meet you in ESN2000 as a colleague and as a friend. You are part of the net and thank you for being so.
Rest in peace, dear friend.
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AGM is taking place on 21st September at 13.30 Central European Time (12.30 UK time)
Agenda:
- Welcome
- Apologies
- Minutes of previous meetings
- Situation in the different countries
- Treasurer’s report
- Secretary’s report
- Website update
- Future projects
- Additional network activities
- Membership developments
- Date & venue for next AGM
- AOB