Embedded Files
Erasmus+
A Month in Austria - An Unforgettable Exchange Experience
A Month in Austria - An Unforgettable Exchange Experience
May 2025
May 2025
I spent a month on exchange in Austria, and I would absolutely recommend the experience to everyone. During my time there, I got to experience both everyday life and special activities like an astronomy camp. The landscapes in Austria were breathtaking, and waking up to mountain views each day was a highlight. I saw scenery there that you could never imagine in Finland.
I met many lovely people and learned a lot about different cultures. I was quickly welcomed into a friend group, and everyone I met was kind and understanding towards me as an exchange student. Although there were occasional language barriers, we always managed to find a solution with a positive attitude. My English improved a lot during the exchange, too. Living abroad also made me more independent, boosting my confidence and courage for the future.
Hosting a student in Finland went smoothly and shouldn’t be something to worry about. As long as you include the exchange student in everyday life, hosting becomes natural. While showing them around, I even ended up doing things in Helsinki I had never experienced before. Hosting was a great chance to explore my own city in new ways.
Studying during the exchange is also manageable, especially if you make arrangements with your teachers beforehand. Depending on the class and the teacher, I was sometimes able to participate—helping in group work or joining in PE lessons. If the language of instruction was unfamiliar, I could focus on my own schoolwork during class. I recommend having a lighter course load during the exchange to leave time for new experiences and to avoid unnecessary stress.
A successful exchange starts with the right mindset. Being brave and curious takes you far, but patience and understanding are important, too. Culture can be very different abroad, but if you stay open and trust the process, your exchange will become one of the best experiences of your life. Nothing else compares to it.
- Matias
Partner school:
https://www.brgkepler.at/
Art, Expression, and Connection in Florence
Art, Expression, and Connection in Florence
May 2025
May 2025
Tytty, Special Education Teacher & Verna, Guidance Counsellor
At the end of May, we had the opportunity to participate in the Erasmus+ course Art as Therapy in Florence. The course brought together teachers from various educational levels across Europe — participants came from Sweden, Austria, Germany, Hungary, Poland, and France. The course was led by Monica Ogaz, an inspiring teacher with Mexican roots, who created an open, safe, and encouraging atmosphere right from the start. Thanks to her approach, it felt natural to dive into the world of art therapy.
The course included a wide range of activities: visual arts, photography, drama, creative writing, lectures, and open discussions. We worked in groups, pairs, and individually, and even stepped outside the studio to explore and reflect on the surrounding environment. The variety of methods and the supportive setting made the course both educational and personally meaningful.
Florence proved to be a magnificent course city. Its compact size made everything easily accessible on foot, and our accommodation was just a short walk from the palazzo where the art studio was located. In our free time, we immersed ourselves in the cultural richness of the city. We visited world-renowned sites such as the Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Pitti, Galleria dell’Accademia, Palazzo Vecchio, the Church of Santa Croce, and the stunning Florence Cathedral. The abundance of artistic treasures was overwhelming — we learned so much about European history, art history, and the Renaissance. The ancient frescoes scattered throughout the city left a lasting impression.
The course also included a guided half-day trip to Pisa. We explored the Piazza dei Miracoli, learned about the history of the Baptistery and the Leaning Tower, and visited the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. The combination of structured learning and cultural exploration made the experience truly unforgettable.
One of the most valuable aspects of the course — in addition to the content and the city itself — was the chance to network with colleagues from all over Europe. Through our discussions, we discovered how similar the challenges and experiences of teachers and students are across countries. This sense of shared understanding was both surprising and encouraging.
We hope the connections we built during the course will continue even after the course has ended. It was a week of creativity, collaboration, and cultural richness — one that will stay with us for a long time.
Experiences from Martinique: Discovering Life and Learning in Finland
Experiences from Martinique: Discovering Life and Learning in Finland
Spring 2025
Spring 2025
This spring, students from Martinique experienced Finnish life firsthand through an exchange program that opened their eyes to new cultures and learning styles. Raphaël and Noah, who spent several weeks at our school, shared their reflections on how different things are here compared to their home country.
School Life and Learning
School Life and Learning
One of the most striking differences was the school environment. In France, students often face long days filled with multiple subjects. In Finland, however, the schedule is more relaxed, with only a few subjects each day. According to Raphaël, this made it easier to manage and focus. Noah appreciated the welcoming atmosphere and engaging activities after school, like basketball, going to the gym, and even trying out a traditional ice bath and sauna.
Both students expressed their admiration for the Finnish school system, which promotes comfort and student well-being as essential parts of learning. Krista explained how this relaxed environment actually enhances learning by reducing stress and making students feel comfortable.
Cultural Experiences and Independence
Cultural Experiences and Independence
While exploring Finland, the students participated in a range of activities, from city tours to campfires with traditional Finnish sausages. They were particularly surprised by the independence of Finnish students, who regularly travel alone using public transportation. This level of self-sufficiency is a contrast to Martinique, where cars are essential due to less reliable public transport.
The cultural experience didn’t stop there. Raphaël and Noah also discovered the Finnish way of family life, work organization, and even picked up some Finnish phrases along the way.
Looking Ahead to October
Looking Ahead to October
In October, Levi and Lucas, their hosts from Helu, are set to visit Martinique as part of the Erasmus exchange. The plans include a week of school and a two-week holiday, allowing them to experience life on the island and catch up on missed holidays. Krista reassured the parents, explaining the trip’s schedule and benefits, and everyone is eagerly anticipating the next chapter of this cultural exchange.
Food and Lifestyle Adjustments
Food and Lifestyle Adjustments
One of the more challenging aspects of the experience was food. Although Finnish cuisine was found to be generally healthy, it posed some difficulties for vegetarians and vegans due to limited options. Nonetheless, the students managed well and appreciated the quality of Finnish ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Final Thoughts
As the visit came to an end, both Raphaël and Noah expressed gratitude for the experience and hoped to return to Finland someday, perhaps as part of Erasmus for university studies.
We are thrilled to see such meaningful connections being made through international exchange, bridging cultures and creating lasting memories. The next adventure is just around the corner—see you in October, Martinique!
Partner school: https://acajou2.com/
Job shadowing in Paris: A Glimpse into the French School System
Job shadowing in Paris: A Glimpse into the French School System
April 2025
April 2025
In April, our special education teacher, Amanda, had the incredible opportunity to job shadow at Collège Hector Berlioz in Paris. It wasn’t just Amanda who got to experience the vibrant atmosphere of French education—four students from Hellu also joined her for a month-long exchange. Together, they immersed themselves in the daily routines and academic culture of a Parisian school, gaining new perspectives and unforgettable memories.
Observing the Classroom Environment
Amanda spent three days observing lessons and familiarizing herself with the French school system. One of the first things she noticed was the active participation of the students. Hands shot up eagerly to answer questions, and classroom discussions were lively and engaging. Despite the high energy, the atmosphere remained calm and focused—students respected the learning environment, and there was a noticeable sense of discipline in each classroom.
Interestingly, from a Finnish perspective, the style of studying seemed quite traditional. There were no laptops or digital tools in sight. Instead, students glued printed worksheets into their notebooks and took notes by hand. It was a throwback to simpler times, where handwritten notes and paper copies were the primary learning tools. While this method might seem outdated to some, it clearly worked well for the students of Hector Berlioz, who followed along attentively and participated actively.
Long School Days and Saturday Classes
One of the biggest surprises was the length of the school days. In Finland, students are accustomed to relatively short school days, but in France, classes at Hector Berlioz began as early as 7:55 a.m. and sometimes stretched until 6:15 p.m. To add to the intensity, students also attended school every other Saturday—a concept almost unimaginable to Finnish students!
The structure of the school day reflected the rigorous academic expectations placed on students. Lessons were long and demanding, with very few breaks in between. Despite this, students remained focused and committed to their studies, showing remarkable resilience and discipline.
Student Well-being: Room for Improvement?
While the academic environment was impressive, Amanda noted some differences in terms of student well-being. Unlike in Finland, where student support services are highly prioritized, Hector Berlioz had limited resources for student welfare. For example, there was only one nurse available for the entire school of 1,200 students, and special education services were not provided in the same capacity as in Finnish schools. This was a stark contrast to the Finnish approach, where every student has access to well-structured support if needed.
A Learning Experience for All
Overall, the job-shadowing experience offered Amanda a unique glimpse into the strengths and challenges of the French educational system. Meanwhile, our four exchange students embraced the long days, traditional learning styles, and the vibrant city life of Paris.
It’s clear that while the methods may differ, the core of education—curiosity, discipline, and a passion for learning—remains the same, whether in Finland or France.
Grüsse aus Österreich!
Grüsse aus Österreich!
April 2025
April 2025
Hi,
I'm Topi and I've now been on exchange in Austria for just under a week, with three more weeks to go. So far, the most amazing thing in Austria has been the scenery. There are lots of mountains here, and the landscapes are very different from Finland. The food culture is quite similar to Finland’s, but I think the best Austrian treat so far has been Sachertorte.
The temperatures have ranged between 15 and 25 degrees, and it's been mostly sunny. Austrian German is quite difficult to understand, but at school I get along well with the other students in English. However, the parents in my host family don’t speak much English.
My schoolwork back home has gone pretty well. I've been able to get a lot done while here, although I’ll have a bit more to do during exam week because of the exchange.
Partner school:
https://www.ahskoeflach.at/
Physics in France
Physics in France
April 2025
April 2025
Aix-en-Provence, renowned for its historical charm and vibrant academic environment, served as the backdrop for an enriching Erasmus+ study camp attended by a small group from Hellu, including Tobias, Peik, Jyri, and Aino. The program centered on physics and sustainable energy, offering students a unique opportunity to delve into France's energy production methods and scientific advancements.
A significant highlight of the camp was the collaboration with Lycée Saint-Éloi, a distinguished private institution in Aix-en-Provence known for its comprehensive educational programs and commitment to sustainable development. Engaging with local students and faculty, the Hellu group participated in joint workshops and discussions, fostering cross-cultural exchange and deepening their understanding of scientific topics within a European context.
Beyond the academic pursuits, the students explored the picturesque landscapes of southern France, visiting various cities, hiking in the mountains, and immersing themselves in the local culture. The culmination of their journey was a visit to the renowned ITER fusion reactor, providing an inspiring glimpse into the future of energy research.
This Erasmus+ experience not only enhanced the students' academic knowledge but also broadened their cultural horizons, exemplifying the profound impact of international educational exchanges.
Partner school: https://lycee-saint-eloi.com/
Energy-Themed Study Camp in Aix-en-Provence
Energy-Themed Study Camp in Aix-en-Provence
By Tobias Hovi, Jyri Muittari, Aino Nguyen, Peik Pirhonen
On the early morning of Tuesday, April 22nd, at 4:40 am, four sleepy students and two teachers met at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport. The flight departed at 6:50 am, and after a brief stopover in Paris, they landed at Marseille Airport at 1:00 pm local time. The energy-themed study camp in Aix-en-Provence, Southern France, had officially begun.
Comparing Energy Production in Finland and France
Comparing Energy Production in Finland and France
The main theme of the study camp was to compare energy production methods in Finland and France. Part of this comparison was done through pre-study assignments, while the rest took place in the classroom alongside French students. During lessons, statistical comparisons revealed that Finland's energy production is more environmentally friendly than France's, although French electricity generation is nearly as eco-friendly as Finland's.
Educational Visits and Hands-On Learning
Educational Visits and Hands-On Learning
The study camp included several educational visits. One of the stops was Cabassol Elementary School, where solar panels had been installed on the roof in collaboration with the volunteer organization Aveppa.
The most impressive visits, however, were to the Calanques Sugiton National Park near Marseille and the ITER International Fusion Reactor. The majestic landscapes of the national park and the cutting-edge technology at ITER offered unique insights into sustainable energy and environmental conservation.
Observations on the French School System
Observations on the French School System
The French and Finnish school systems turned out to be surprisingly different. In many of the classes we observed, a noticeable amount of time was spent dealing with technical issues, managing classroom settings, and correcting disruptive students at the back of the room. This made the lessons seem rather inefficient, and instructions from teachers were sometimes unclear.
On the other hand, the French students were confident and engaged when participating in class discussions, and their technology lessons were much more hands-on compared to Finnish ones. The 30-student class we spent time with was relatively small in comparison to the entire school, but the students showed genuine respect for their teachers, addressing them as Madame and Monsieur.
A Valuable Experience in Southern France
A Valuable Experience in Southern France
The week-long study camp in Southern France was an incredibly valuable experience. Everyone learned a great deal about the green transition and, of course, about French culture, thanks to the warm hospitality of the host families.
During the trip, we also had the opportunity to explore the Mediterranean climate and the natural beauty of Southern France. The sunny landscapes, the rich cultural exchanges, and the hands-on learning experiences made this study camp truly unforgettable.
Paris & Helsinki
Paris & Helsinki
March & April 2025
March & April 2025
Erasmus+ Exchange Weeks in Paris and Helsinki – Culture, Learning, and Unforgettable Experiences
Two teachers from Hellu and 17 students spent a week in Vincennes, Paris, on an Erasmus+ exchange. Our trip focused on sustainable development, particularly on climate change and primary production. We visited Hector Berlioz High School, where we were warmly welcomed by their friendly staff and enthusiastic students. During the joint workshops, we learned about urban gardening, growing edible plants and flowers—concrete actions towards a more sustainable future.
Although the schedule was packed, we still found time to explore some of Paris's most iconic landmarks. We wandered through the shadows of Notre Dame, admired the grandeur of the Arc de Triomphe, marveled at the Eiffel Tower in all its glory, and explored the treasures of the Louvre. Each day was filled with new experiences and memories that our students are sure to cherish.
At the end of the journey, we returned to Hellu, tired but happy. A big thank you to everyone who participated in the trip—our shared experience strengthened our international cooperation and broadened our understanding of sustainable development.
Partner school: https://www.cite-scolaire-berlioz.org/le-lycee/
Parisians in Helsinki – Friendship and Collaboration
Before Easter, it was our turn to welcome back our familiar group of Parisian students and teachers for an Erasmus+ exchange. During their visit, we had the opportunity to show them the best of Helsinki and introduce them to the Finnish school culture.
The week was packed with diverse activities: playful learning at Heureka, scientific exploration at the Departments of Geology and Geography, visits to exhibitions at the Natural History Museum, and urban farming at Kääntöpöytä. We also enjoyed delicious treats at the Fazer Visitor Centre and experienced the stunning landscapes of Nuuksio National Park. Especially the nature in Nuuksio, grilling sausages by the fire, and trying out a Finnish sauna were highlights for our guests.
The week was truly memorable, filled with shared experiences and cultural exchanges. It was a pleasure to share our culture and learn together with our friends from Paris.
Looking Forward – Eyes on the Future
Although the exchange weeks are now behind us, our cooperation is far from over. We are eagerly looking forward to April when our Parisian friends will visit Helsinki once again. Thanks to the Erasmus+ program, we have built lasting friendships, broadened our worldview, and learned from each other about sustainable development and intercultural understanding.
Thank you to all the organizers, teachers, students, and partners—these experiences and memories will carry far into the future!
Elli's Exchange Experience in Cartagena, Spain
Elli's Exchange Experience in Cartagena, Spain
March 2025
March 2025
Going on an exchange was the best decision I’ve ever made in high school! I spent three weeks in Cartagena, Spain, and they were the best three weeks of my life.
People in Cartagena were incredibly friendly and social – it was a bit of a shock for an introverted Finn like me! But spending time with such outgoing people was the perfect contrast to my usual routines. I made more friends at the exchange school than I’ve ever had before. We talked every day and had fun during lessons. I spent most of my time with my exchange partner, Sandra, and her friends – and I still keep in touch with them almost daily.
School in Spain was very different from ours. There were gates around the school that could only be opened by the doorman. One time we got stuck inside after school because he was gone, and we had to figure out how to get out! One of us climbed over the gate and managed to open it just enough for the rest of us to squeeze through. It was a confusing moment, but also really funny.
Most teachers didn’t speak much English, but I often talked with the English, philosophy, and art teachers. The students were very helpful and translated things for me during lessons. Subjects were more theory-based than in Finland. For example, chemistry was only theory, and students rarely did any lab work. In art classes, we worked on creative design tasks, which I enjoyed a lot.
Even though I enjoyed the Spanish sun, I still had to complete my schoolwork for Hellu. Before the exchange, I made arrangements with my teachers, and they allowed me to do tasks on my own and submit them by the next lesson. Sometimes I couldn’t keep up during the week, but I caught up on weekends. I even had one vocabulary test postponed until exam week. I’m really grateful for how flexible the teachers were.
My host family was wonderful. I lived in a three-storey house with Sandra, her parents, brother, and grandmother. We mostly spoke English, but I also used my Spanish with the grandmother and sometimes with the mother. Luckily, my years of Spanish studies helped me a lot, and we could communicate just fine – even with gestures when needed! At first, living with a new family was a bit strange, but after a week, it felt completely natural. We did a lot together: we went bowling, to the beach, and even spent a weekend in Madrid.
I don’t regret going for one second. I gained new experiences, made unforgettable memories and friendships, and improved my language skills. One of my proudest moments was when I ordered at a café entirely in Spanish and even had a short chat with the waiter. The exchange made me want to learn even more. I miss my host family and friends a lot – which shows how deep the bonds we created really are. An exchange builds friendships that not even distance can break.
Partner school:
https://www.isaacperal.net/
Job shadowing in Denmark: Learning and Inspiration Across Borders
Job shadowing in Denmark: Learning and Inspiration Across Borders
March 2025
March 2025
In March 2025, we—Anna, a guidance counsellor, and Krista, a chemistry teacher—had the incredible opportunity to participate in a job shadowing trip to Denmark as part of the Erasmus programme. Our destination was Virum Gymnasium, a well-regarded upper secondary school located just outside Copenhagen.
During our visit, we observed a wide range of classes, including English, social sciences, and chemistry. It was fascinating to witness the Danish approach to teaching these subjects, and we were particularly impressed by the active student participation and the open dialogue encouraged in each lesson. The atmosphere in the classrooms was both engaging and student-centered, allowing us to reflect on how similar practices could be adapted back home.
In addition to classroom observations, we met with several student counsellors and other staff members to discuss the differences and similarities between the Finnish and Danish education systems. These conversations were insightful, highlighting not only the shared challenges we face but also the unique strategies employed in Denmark. It was refreshing to exchange ideas on student support, curriculum design, and career guidance.
The experience was incredibly rewarding, offering us new perspectives on teaching practices, learning environments, and classroom communication. Job shadowing proved to be an excellent opportunity to reflect on our own work in Finland while picking up fresh ideas to bring back to our classrooms.
We returned home feeling inspired and more convinced than ever that international cooperation enriches our work as educators and opens doors to new professional development opportunities. The conversations we had with our Danish colleagues were inspiring, and we certainly welcome any future chances to collaborate across borders.
Partner school: https://virum-gym.dk/
Four Weeks, Countless Memories: My Time in Austria
Four Weeks, Countless Memories: My Time in Austria
March 2025
March 2025
My 4-week Erasmus+ exchange in Austria was an unforgettable adventure. I stayed in a small village called Köflach, and my host family was incredibly welcoming. They made my experience in Austria truly special.
During my stay, I travelled to Vienna and visited several local highlights, including the Haus des Meeres zoo, the Prater amusement park, and St. Stephen's Cathedral.
The school system in Austria is quite similar to ours, with a few key differences. One thing that took some getting used to was that the school did not serve hot lunches—only small snacks like pretzels were available throughout the day. Also, each class stayed with the same group of students for all their lessons, which created a close-knit and relaxed atmosphere in the classroom. I think this is something that is missing in our own school system.
Managing my studies was not difficult because I had purposely kept my period at home fairly empty. I had plenty of free time, especially during school hours, to focus on my own assignments.
My favorite part of the exchange was learning about the local culture of the town. Because it is a small area, local traditions were clearly visible and easy to observe. The experience was even more enjoyable because I was able to spend time with other Finnish exchange students.
The only real challenge I faced was the language barrier. Most people didn’t speak English well enough to hold a full conversation, which sometimes made communication difficult.
Overall, I’m very glad I took part in this exchange. I gained a deeper understanding of Austrian culture and had the chance to meet many new people.
– Armi
Partner school:
https://www.ahskoeflach.at/
Slovakia & Helsinki
Slovakia & Helsinki
February & April 2025
February & April 2025
Erasmus+ Exchange: Unforgettable Moments in Helsinki and Slovakia
This spring, we had the privilege of participating in a unique Erasmus+ exchange program that took us from the vibrant cityscape of Helsinki to the picturesque mountains of Slovakia.
February: Slovakian Students in Helsinki
February: Slovakian Students in Helsinki
The exchange began in February when we welcomed a group of Slovakian students to Hellu. During their stay, they got the chance to experience Finnish school life, study alongside our students, and explore the many sights of Helsinki. Together, we visited the historic Suomenlinna sea fortress, delved into science at Heureka, and participated in a Workshop of the Future at Amos Rex.
To give our guests a true taste of Finnish life, we spent time ice skating at Braku, relaxing in the sauna, and even trying ice swimming at Löyly. Our exploration of Helsinki continued with stunning views from Kauppatori and Oodi. A heartfelt thank you to all the host families who warmly opened their homes, providing our guests with an authentic experience of Finnish everyday life.
The week was filled with shared experiences, learning, and new friendships that crossed borders. These international encounters help us understand different cultures, broaden our worldviews, and increase empathy and tolerance—skills that are more important than ever in today's multicultural world.
April: Hellu Students in Slovakia
April: Hellu Students in Slovakia
In April, it was our turn to visit Slovakia. We first traveled to Budapest, where we had the chance to explore the beautiful sights of Hungary's capital city, soaking in its vibrant atmosphere before continuing to Rožňava.
The exchange program in Slovakia was both diverse and international, featuring participants from Finland, Slovakia, Spain, Malta, the Czech Republic, and Réunion. Our days were filled with enriching activities, including hiking in the majestic Tatra Mountains, engaging in discussions about sustainable development and mental health, and diving into local culture through games, music, and dance.
We also had the privilege of exploring the historic city of Rožňava, learning about its rich history and connecting with local students. The warm hospitality of our host families made the experience even more special, allowing us to truly immerse ourselves in Slovakian culture.
Before returning to Helsinki, we had one more opportunity to visit Budapest, this time with fresh perspectives and new friendships formed during our time in Slovakia. Strolling through its historic streets and enjoying the stunning views along the Danube was the perfect way to wrap up our unforgettable Erasmus+ experience.
Students’ comments about the exchange:
"The best part was getting to know new people and cultures—you also get to show your own world to others during the exchange."
"Even though I got sick during the trip, I still have amazing memories of the exchange week. Everyone should apply!"
"I learned new things, improved my language skills, and made friends from all over Europe. Surprisingly, the car rides to school were the most memorable—mountains, music, and the vibes created the perfect moment."
Lasting Memories and New Friendships
The Erasmus+ exchange program gave us more than just a glimpse into life in another country—it created lasting memories and friendships that span across Europe. Our shared experiences, whether in the snowy landscapes of Finland or the rolling mountains of Slovakia, have brought us closer together and deepened our understanding of our global community.
We eagerly look forward to continuing these international connections and creating even more unforgettable moments in the future. A big thank you to everyone who made this experience possible!
Grüsse aus Österreich & Deutschland!
Grüsse aus Österreich & Deutschland!
February 2025
February 2025
Hellu's Exchange Students Spending February in Germany and Austria
Just like the local students who spent last autumn at Hellu, our exchange students are now spending the month of February in Germany and Austria. Ella, Elsa, and Armi headed to Köflach, Alvar to Graz, and Siiri to Schweich.
Graz is Austria's second-largest city, known especially for the Schlossberg hill, from which the clock tower offers stunning views over the city. Köflach is a small town about 40 kilometers west of Graz. Austria is famous for its beautiful Alpine landscapes, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities and hiking.
Elsa, Ella, and Armi also visited Vienna, where they visited everything from the aquarium and food market to the shopping street, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and the Prater amusement park. Alvar's host family took him on a hiking trip.
Schweich is located right near the border with Luxembourg and close to the historic city of Trier, the oldest city in Germany, founded over 2,000 years ago during Roman times. The city boasts several UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the famous Porta Nigra, an ancient city gate, as well as well-preserved Roman baths and an amphitheater. Trier is also known as the birthplace of philosopher Karl Marx.
Luxembourg, one of Europe's smallest yet wealthiest countries, is known for its multilingual culture, beautiful old town, and EU institutions. It offers an interesting blend of modern city life and historical fortresses.
"The first week of the Erasmus exchange is now behind us. We have created many fun memories, and I have had the chance to meet so many wonderful people. With my host family, we have been exploring nearby towns and enjoying the carnival atmosphere." – Siiri
Partner schools:
https://www.ahskoeflach.at/
https://www.brgkepler.at/
https://hlw-weiz.at/
Greetings from Spain!
Greetings from Spain!
February 2025
February 2025
¡Saludos desde Madrid! 🌴
Half of the exchange is already behind us, and everything has gone smoothly despite the language barrier with the host family. Fortunately, the exchange student speaks fluent English. The daily rhythm here leans much more towards the evening, and mealtimes are much later. We have seen many different sights and explored the metro-filled city.
– Ninni
¡Saludos desde Lleida! 🌞
Half of the exchange has passed incredibly quickly. The host family has been extremely friendly and welcoming. I have also had the chance to meet their relatives and spend time with them. The host family has introduced me to Catalan cuisine and its delicious dishes. The daily rhythm is quite similar to Finland, except dinner is eaten much later.
– Paavo
¡Saludos desde Cartagena! 💃
Our Spanish partner school, IES Isaac Peral, gave our exchange students Elli and Noa a warm welcome, and the weather wasn’t bad either. 😎 Reuniting with their hosts, Sandra and Irene, was joyful, and now it's Sandra's and Irene's turn to introduce Elli and Noa to Spanish culture and everyday life. The first days were filled with learning new things and getting accustomed to everything. After three weeks of exchange, Elli and Noa will undoubtedly return with many happy memories and valuable experiences.
By the way, the partner school is named after the Cartagena-born engineer Isaac Peral, who invented the first electric-powered submarine.
Partner schools:
https://www.educa2.madrid.org/web/centro.ies.manuelfragairibarne.madrid
https://iestorrevicens.cat/
https://www.isaacperal.net/
Jobshadowing in Martinique
Jobshadowing in Martinique
January 2025
January 2025
The Erasmus+ coordinatores, Krista & Jenni, visited Martinique to get to know our partner school, plan future exchanges, and sort out practical matters such as public transportation and sightseeing spots. 🏝🐬
This spring, two students from Martinique will come to Hellu, and next autumn, two Hellu students will go on a return visit. In addition, a group exchange is planned for the next school year!
Read the whole story here (in Finnish).
Partner school: https://acajou2.com/
Individual exchanges
Individual exchanges
Autumn 2024
Autumn 2024
Day Trip to Tallinn: An International Adventure! 🍂✨
The day trip to Tallinn was a great success! Joining the adventure were Hellu's Erasmus+ exchange students from Spain, France, Austria, and Germany, along with their Finnish host students.
Even though the weather was chilly, it didn’t dampen the spirits—everyone had a fantastic time and got to know each other even better. The Old Town impressed everyone with its stunning beauty, and the KGB Museum was especially interesting, offering a glimpse into history.
Shared moments and activities helped to build a strong sense of community, making the trip both memorable and meaningful.
Our Spanish exchange students saw snow for the first time today! That’s how a snowman named Juan was born.
Erasmus+ Project Development in Iceland
Erasmus+ Project Development in Iceland
November 2024
November 2024
The Erasmus+ project requires a great deal of paperwork, but every carefully prepared application and report opens up new opportunities for increased funding and valuable learning experiences.
In November, Hellu's Erasmus+ coordinator, Krista, participated in a special course in Iceland focused on enhancing the management of Erasmus+ projects. The course instructor has 15 years of experience with the Erasmus+ program, and their expertise is set to help us take Hellu's Erasmus activities to the next level.
Although the coursework is intense, there is still time to explore Iceland's breathtaking landscapes. The weather here is often rainy and quite windy, but the stunning scenery makes it all worthwhile.
Hellu is actively involved in its second year of Erasmus+ projects, and we are excited to see what the future holds!
Job Shadowing: Journey to Slovakia via Budapest
Job Shadowing: Journey to Slovakia via Budapest
October 2024
October 2024
In October, a group of teachers, representing 11 different countries, traveled to Slovakia for a job-shadowing experience. Our journey began in Budapest, where we had a few hours before continuing by train to Rožňava, Slovakia. During our stop, we visited the Szépművészeti Múzeum (Museum of Fine Arts), where we had the chance to see Pazuzu, the king of the wind demons in Assyrian and Babylonian mythology, famously known from movies like The Exorcist. We also admired the sculptures of Franz Xaver Messerschmidt (18th century). Hopefully, we’ll get the chance to visit this remarkable museum again in the spring with Hellu students!
After our visit, we continued our journey with a four-hour train ride, followed by an additional hour by car to reach our destination. Before planning the group trip with the students, we are considering finding a smoother route for next time.
At the Slovakian school, we had the opportunity to observe their modern and high-quality education system. Over 90% of the students there continue to higher education, which speaks to the school's strong academic standards. The school also offers an English-language program and a wide range of language studies
Partner school: https://gymrv.edupage.org/
One of the best things about this job-shadowing experience was getting to meet colleagues from Spain, Cyprus, Tenerife, and Lithuania . It was truly inspiring to share ideas, teaching methods, and best practices with such passionate educators from across Europe. We exchanged insights about our respective education systems, discussed challenges and successes in international projects, and even started planning joint activities for the future. The diversity of perspectives enriched our conversations, and it was clear that, despite coming from different countries, we shared the same commitment to improving education and promoting intercultural understanding.
The visit was not just about observing; we also participated in planning future exchange programs. Our time in Slovakia was inspiring and filled with meaningful connections, paving the way for even more enriching Erasmus+ exchanges in the future.
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