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Erasmus+ in Action: Students from IES Ginés Pérez Chirinos Driving the SDGs in France
The Erasmus+ programme continues to establish itself as one of the most valuable initiatives in the holistic education of European students. Beyond academic learning, such experiences play a crucial role in shaping more responsible, independent young people who are increasingly aware of their belonging to a wider community: Europe.
In this context, twenty Year 11 students from IES Ginés Pérez Chirinos, accompanied by three teachers, took part in the second mobility of the HEROES project (Helping the Earth Restores Our Environmental Sustainability), held in the French town of Quimper from 8th to 13th March.
During their stay, the students worked collaboratively on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), alongside pupils from La Sablière school, Paraclet lycée, and their Dutch partners. This international cooperation enabled participants to exchange ideas, perspectives and proposals within an enriching academic and personal environment.
Divided into eleven groups, the students represented different SDGs —namely goals 3, 4, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and 17— reflecting on their importance and developing practical measures for their improvement. Their work culminated in the presentation of final projects during a simulated Conference of the Parties (COP), held at the Finistère Department Council. This activity helped students to understand the origins, functioning and current relevance of such international conferences in addressing global challenges.
Furthermore, throughout the mobility, students engaged in hands-on activities related to several SDGs.
Concerning SDGs 11 and 15, they explored Quimper, discovering its parks, green spaces and initiatives aimed at enhancing urban sustainability.
In relation to SDG 14, they visited Océanopolis, where they gained deeper insight into marine species and the challenges posed by habitat degradation. They also took part in a scientific workshop, collecting river water samples and analysing them, thereby applying key aspects of the scientific method.
A valuable opportunity to broaden minds
Undoubtedly, this experience has provided a valuable opportunity to foster teamwork, encourage active engagement with environmental challenges, and strengthen students’ commitment to the SDGs. It is also worth highlighting the significant improvement in their communicative competence in English, the working language of the project, which enabled a genuine linguistic immersion.
In conclusion, Erasmus+ not only opens geographical borders but also broadens minds, helping to shape more prepared, committed and socially aware citizens, ready to contribute to a more sustainable future.
Co-financed by the European Union. The opinions and points of view expressed only commit their author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Spanish Service for the Internationalization of Education (SEPIE). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
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