Learning Exchanging Activities

Collaborative Activities

The implementation of collaborative activities between both schools will contribute to greater involvement of the target groups in protecting the environment. Through practice, students, teachers and the local community will contribute to a more sustainable planet.

Students will gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be global citizens, learning to recognise their rights and responsibilities in an interconnected world. They will become active citizens at the local and global levels.

Activity

Brussels - Transnational Meeting

Between January 23 and 26, the team of teachers from our Erasmus LUGA project was in Brussels, together with colleagues from partner countries Italy and Turkey.

The main pedagogical coordinators participated together in this meeting. Through this meeting, teachers gained professional development, new methodologies, and international networking opportunities.

They established a common understanding: they ensured that all participants had a clear understanding of the project's objectives, roles, and responsibilities.

They promoted collaboration: they encouraged open communication and collaboration among participants to build a strong project team.

They identified needs and resources: they discussed the needs of participating teachers and schools and identified available resources and support mechanisms.

They developed action plans: collaboratively developed action plans and timelines for project activities, ensuring alignment with project objectives.

They also benefited from improved teaching techniques, broader perspectives, and exposure to international projects.

Learning Exchange Activity

Portugal - 15th to 21st March

Portugal Erasmus+ Team

Italy Erasmus+ Team

Turkey Erasmus+ Team

Turkish team and Portuguese families

Arrival- Sunday 15 March, 11 am

Italian team and Portuguese families

Arrival- Sunday 15 March, 4 pm

Today we had the great pleasure of welcoming our partner schools from Italy and Turkey to our school. It was also the moment when students finally met their Portuguese host families — families who generously opened their homes and hearts to receive them with warmth, kindness and genuine enthusiasm.

This first moment highlighted the beginning of what promises to be a truly enriching journey for everyone involved. The day unfolded with smiles, shared moments, cultural exchange and the first steps towards friendships that we believe will last far beyond this project.

It was especially moving to witness the joy and excitement of students, families and teachers alike. The atmosphere was filled with hospitality, curiosity and a sincere desire to discover new cultures and connect with one another.

Moments like these remind us how powerful and meaningful it can be when different cultures come together. They create memories, understanding and bonds that stay with us long after the experience itself has ended.

Portugal

Day 1 -16 March, Monday

The first day of the Erasmus+ Learning Exchanging Activity was filled with enthusiasm, joy, and a strong spirit of cooperation among students and teachers. The morning began with ice-breaking activities led by the music teacher Margarida Rocha, encouraging interaction between students from different countries through rhythm and teamwork.

Participants, then, enjoyed a guided tour of the school, discovering key spaces and learning about the school’s sustainable practices. This was followed by traditional games, led by the PE teacher, Bruno Freitas, beyond the curricular flexibility project of 9Da class, with the collaboration of other PE teachers, Júlia Gomes, Podstawski, Carla Almeida and also the teachers interns, promoting teamwork, inclusion, and respect. Our headmaster, Dr. Carlos Pedro, attended and gave the official start to the activity.

In the afternoon, students from the participating countries presented their schools, countries, cultures, traditions, and educational contexts, fostering intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding. The mascot LUGA was also introduced, along with a creative challenge to develop a collaborative story throughout the mobility programme. All students were challenged to take their best photo and participate in a photography contest “Nature in the City of Porto.”

The day ended with the symbolic initiative “Let Us Green Again in Action,” during which two trees were planted, reinforcing the group’s commitment to sustainability. In the evening, students will continue to spend time with their host families, furthering cultural exchange that makes the Erasmus+ experience so special.

Portugal

Day 2 -17 March, Tuesday

The second day of this unforgettable Erasmus+ adventure began with a burst of creativity and teamwork. Students gathered in groups to bring the project mascot, LUGA, to life, crafting the beginning of its story. Laughter, ideas, and collaboration filled the room as each group contributed its own touch, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the project.

Next, Dr. Sandra from LIPOR guided the students through a captivating session on sustainable waste management, highlighting the importance of reducing food waste and consumption and caring for our environment. Students reflected on how these lessons connected directly to the core values of the Be Green project.

The afternoon brought the excitement of exploring Porto. Students wandered through the bustling Bolhão Market, admired the striking Clérigos Tower, and visited the iconic Livraria Lello. They strolled along the vibrant Ribeirinha area, soaking in the riverside atmosphere, before stopping for lunch at the McDonald’s in the Praça da Câmara. Portuguese students proudly stepped into the role of guides, sharing stories and insights about each landmark, creating moments of peer learning and intercultural exchange.

After lunch, the group continued across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia, where they boarded a boat to sail along the Douro River and witness the famous Six Bridges from a unique perspective. They then took the cable car to Jardim do Morro, enjoying breathtaking views before walking across the Infante Bridge. The city tour concluded at the historic São Bento railway station, where students reflected on the sights, sounds, and experiences of the day.

Returning to the school by metro, the students were greeted warmly by their host families. Hearts full of new memories and minds buzzing with ideas, the day ended with smiles, stories shared, and a deepened appreciation for culture, collaboration, and sustainability.

Portugal

Day 3 -18 March, Wednesday

Students began the day with enthusiasm, continuing their work on our mascot LUGA and exploring its story through teamwork and creativity.

This was followed by a visit to the Serralves Foundation, with particular emphasis on its gardens and park, an inspiring example of green spaces and sustainable practices. The journey by metro and metrobus also reinforced the importance of sustainable mobility.

During the afternoon, the Art and Emotions Workshop, led by Professor Ricardo Silva and Pedro Nogueira, provided moments for self-expression and reflection, whilst the teachers visited António Nobre Secondary School, where they were warmly welcomed by the deputy headteacher, Dr Preciosa. After the visit, the group returned to Areosa for a collaborative meeting, continuing the development of the project.

A memorable day, full of creativity, sustainability and a true spirit of collaboration.

Portugal

Day 4 -19 March, Thursday

Farewell dinner party

The fourth day of our Erasmus+ trip was filled with meaningful moments, discoveries and shared emotions.

From learning about sustainability at LIPOR to the simple yet memorable moments around the lunch table, the day reminded us how bonds are strengthened through shared experiences.

One of the highlights of the afternoon was our visit to the Porto Municipal Police headquarters, where the officers welcomed us and gave an engaging demonstration of their work. The police dogs particularly caught everyone’s attention — their discipline and skill left us truly impressed and inspired.

Shortly afterwards, we surprised our Turkish and Italian friends with a trip to the seaside. For some, it was the first time they had ever seen the sea – an exciting and unforgettable moment when they dipped their feet in the water.

We then headed to the Water Pavilion in Parque da Cidade, where we explored the importance of water in an engaging way.

The day ended with celebrations, friendship and a heartfelt farewell, at a dinner held at Escola da Areosa, organised by our families to whom we express our deepest gratitude, who made this experience possible and lovingly prepared this special gathering. A special thank you also to our headteacher, Dr Carlos Pedro Vasconcelos, whose beautiful and sincere speech made the moment even more memorable.

During this closing ceremony, all participants — pupils and teachers alike — were presented with “Let Us Green Again – Portugal” certificates of participation, symbolising the involvement, commitment and spirit of collaboration experienced throughout the entire exchange.

During this closing ceremony, all participants — pupils and teachers — were presented with “Let Us Green Again – Portugal” certificates of participation. At the same time, prizes and certificates were also awarded to the winners of the “Nature in Porto City” photography competition, with the participation of all pupils involved also being recognised.

Winners of the “Nature in Porto City” Competition

You can view all the competing photos by clicking:

https://padlet.com/azuleto/nature-in-porto-city-photography-competition-erasmus-let-us--gn8bciilor2ejaea

Portugal

Day 5 -20 March, Friday

Our students continued to engage in collaborative work in mixed groups, giving free rein to their creativity by jointly crafting stories. In this final stage, they excelled in completing the narrative — the Portuguese chapter — developed using digital tools, thereby strengthening not only their language skills but also their digital and collaborative skills.

The day also included an activity at the Faculty of Engineering in Porto, centred on the theme “Rubbish: Waste or Resource?”, which provided moments for critical reflection on sustainability and the impact of our actions on the environment.

To conclude, an evaluation of the exchange activity took place, allowing for the sharing of experiences, lessons learnt and memories that will certainly endure over time.

It was a journey marked by sharing, growth and international collaboration. A finale that leaves all participants feeling a sense of nostalgia and pride!

Dissemination of LEA in Portugal

Italy team, 25 March

Students shared their experiences for the Italy group.

Students sharing their experiences in Portugal with their Italian colleagues.

Teachers sharing experiences and typical Portuguese products with their Italian colleagues.

Learning Exchange Activity

Italy - March 4rd to March 8th

Sunday 3 May

Our students arrived at Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport accompanied by their families and the LUGA mascot. There was time for goodbyes, well-wishes for a safe journey, and hopes for great Erasmus+ adventures.

During the journey, they shared interesting facts, expectations and many moments of excitement — and, of course, our mascot travelled very happily. The journey went smoothly, ending with our arrival at Brindisi Airport, where our Turkish and Italian partners and the host families welcomed us with open arms, giving the students a real sense of warmth and family closeness.

Day 1, Monday 4 May

The activity “LET’S SING FOR A WALK!” was presented, inspired by the themes of the LUGA project, followed by a guided tour of the school, highlighting the sustainable practices in place and the exchange of ideas on environmental awareness. The students adapted and integrated exceptionally well, participating actively and enthusiastically in the activities.

We also attended the 2026 Run Against Hunger, an important school charity event in the fight against hunger, in which the Erasmus students took part in front of a large audience. Later, they watched a short film about the environment, which prompted moments of reflection and discussion in small groups. Using art materials and their creativity, they developed artistic projects to express their ideas and concerns regarding human impact on the environment and the importance of more sustainable practices.

During the afternoon, the students spent time with their host families, who had taken care to organise family activities, enabling them to feel truly integrated into family and cultural life. These moments provided opportunities for sharing, closeness and discovery, strengthening the bonds formed during their stay and contributing to an atmosphere of warmth, trust and personal enrichment.

Some groups also went on outings and visited places of cultural interest, including the village of Alberobello, known for its dis

tinctive buildings, as well as caves and other natural sites of great scenic beauty. These activities allowed the students to engage directly with the local heritage, broadening their cultural knowledge and making the experience even more enriching.

Day 2, Tuesday 5 May

The day began at the school with a discussion of the main urban environmental issues, such as pollution, waste management, traffic and the preservation of public spaces, with particular emphasis on the importance of walking and sustainable mobility. We then walked to Palazzo Nervegna for a meeting with the Councillor for the Environment, who outlined local environmental challenges and the measures adopted to promote a more sustainable city.

Later, the students took part in the activity “Mission Impossible: Discover Brindisi”, exploring the city’s main historical, cultural and artistic landmarks. Organised into teams, they visited different urban areas, observing local daily life and identifying environmental issues affecting the city.

The day ended with moments of socialising and cultural exchange with their host families.

Day 3, Wednesday 6 May

The project continues to promote active learning, inclusion and environmental awareness through collaborative activities such as ‘Sharing is caring!’ and ‘Planting seeds’, emphasising direct contact with nature and the participation of all pupils, including those with special needs.

On this day, at around 3 pm, we took a guided tour by, Anna Lucia Demilito, environmental educator, Nature hiking guide and tourist guide, of the stunning Brindisi seaside area and the Torre Guaceto Marine Protected Area, a place of rare natural beauty and immense ecological richness. During the activity, participants explored the local flora and fauna and took part in a beach clean-up, paying particular attention to plastic waste. This experience raised everyone’s awareness of the serious danger posed by plastic pollution to marine ecosystems, reinforcing the importance of responsible and sustainable behaviour in protecting the environment and marine life.

Day 4, Thursday 7 May

The day began with a music workshop, featuring warm-up exercises and motivational activities led by Letizia Cassone and Lucia Palmisano, designed to foster creativity, self-expression, team spirit and an understanding of sustainability. This was followed by a cooperative learning workshop, where participants developed a digital storyboard featuring our mascot, which recounted the excursions undertaken and shared the lessons learnt about the importance of protecting the environment, whilst also encouraging the sharing of intangible cultural heritage amongst all participants.

During the afternoon, in the countryside around Brindisi, we enjoyed an enriching agritourism experience, allowing participants to discover local, zero-kilometre produce whilst valuing sustainable practices, local traditions and cultural preservation. We were able to visit the farm, guided by the owners, interacting with the animals we encountered.

After lunch, whilst the students actively took part in a workshop on making fresh pasta, learning ancestral and sustainable practices, those responsible for coordinating the project across the three countries were able to, in the shade of an olive tree, hold a planning meeting for the upcoming activity in Turkey and carry out a mid-term evaluation of the project, reinforcing their joint commitment to active, sustainable and transformative environmental education.

On Thursday evening, we took part in a traditional Italian dinner, where we had the opportunity to sample typical dishes and socialise with our host families in an atmosphere of great camaraderie and friendship. The celebration was enriched by traditional dances, which livened up the evening and engaged everyone present; we not only watched, but also learnt and took an active part, becoming part of this vibrant cultural expression.

This was followed by the certificate presentation ceremony, a symbolic and moving moment recognising the journey we have undertaken. It was a memorable evening of celebration, unity and cultural exchange, marked by joy, a sense of belonging and the strengthening of bonds between all participants.

Day 5, Friday 8 May

As part of the visit to the ecomuseum and the “La Cutura” Botanical Garden in Giuggianello (LE), which is characterised by its natural beauty, biodiversity and the educational value of this unique site.

The visit to the botanical garden proved to be a particularly enriching experience, allowing participants to explore a vast collection of rare plants, Mediterranean species and carefully preserved themed areas. Direct contact with this natural heritage provided moments of discovery and wonder, highlighting the importance of biodiversity conservation and the balance of ecosystems.

During the afternoon, we had the opportunity to visit Otranto, a fascinating ancient town in the province of Lecce, in Apulia. Its rich, millennia-old history is deeply intertwined with the events that have unfolded along the Italian Adriatic coast since ancient times, when it played an important role as a centre of Greek and Roman civilisation.

The town combines heritage, culture and stunning coastal scenery, offering an enriching experience that blends historical insight with an appreciation of its unique seaside atmosphere.

Saturday, 9 May

A day of farewells… and unforgettable emotions.

The host families accompanied the Portuguese students to Brindisi railway station, in a moment filled with hugs, tears, smiles and lots of affection. More than just an exchange programme, truly special bonds were formed.

We then travelled by train to Bari, now with just the Portuguese Erasmus team, taking with us memories, lessons learnt and fond memories. We explored the city’s historic streets, watched the traditional making of fresh pasta, discovered the beautiful beaches of the Adriatic and experienced the celebrations of Saint Nicholas, with music, tradition and a magnificent fireworks display.

It was also a time of great closeness between teachers and students, strengthening friendships, sharing and unique experiences.

The trip ended with the return to Portugal, on 10 May, where families awaited us with great longing and joy. The reunion, full of emotion and warm embraces, brought to a perfect close an experience that will remain forever in everyone’s memory.

Dissemination of LEA in Italy

Portugal Team, 12 to 15 May

Dissemination of LEA in Italy

Turkey Team, 12 to 15 May

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