Erasmus + Job Shadowing 

9th - 12th March 2026

Our Accreditation Objectives: 

Objective 1 : To develop diverse cultural awareness amongst staff
Objective 2 : To enhance digital literacy amongst staff
Objective 3 : To create awareness on environmental and sustainability amongst staff

Four members of staff from Sancta Maria College had the wonderful opportunity to travel to ISTITUTO COMPRENSIVO BASTIA 1, Umbra near Assisi, Italy, as part of our Erasmus+ programme. During this visit, we engaged in a job shadowing experience in a local secondary school, where we were warmly welcomed and shown exceptional hospitality by both staff and students. Throughout the week, we had the chance to observe a wide range of classes and teaching approaches. These included engaging STEM lessons, coding classes, and art history sessions. We got to see the school's vegetable garden which they use to learn about food production and sustainability. The garden was also a space for student for Additional Needs Needs to use. We were particularly impressed by the school’s drama programme, where students showcased their talents through award-winning performances in the prestigious National Dante Festival.

In addition to classroom observations, we met with key members of the school community, including representatives from the Parents’ Association and the school’s Special Educational Needs (SEN) coordinator. These discussions provided valuable insights into how student support systems operate within the Italian education system. We also visited a local primary school and really enjoyed seeing the learning happening there.

Beyond the school setting, the Irish teachers also had the pleasure of experiencing the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Assisi. While there, we visited the relics of St. Francis, the patron saint of Italy, as well as the remains of St Carlo Acutis, now recognised as the patron saint of technology. Assisi is a beautiful place, steeped in history, with the remains of Roman villas and temples visible at every corner. During our stay, the town was especially busy, with pilgrims lining the streets to honour their beloved saint.

We also had the opportunity to visit the nearby city of Perugia, known for its stunning architecture and art, as well as its thoroughly enjoyable chocolate museum- an experience that was both cultural and fun. We spent a brief time in Rome where we were lucky to see the Colosseum and the Spanish Steps.

We were delighted to present information about our own school to our Italian colleagues, strengthening the connection between our two school communities. This visit followed on from hosting Barbara and her colleagues, along with their students, at our school just a few weeks earlier. Looking ahead, we are excited about plans to return to Assisi later this year with a group of incoming first-year students in September/October. Further details will be shared by their Year Head and Erasmus Coordinator, Mr McGreal.

Having the opportunity to experience a different school system and culture is at the heart of the Erasmus+ programme. Building connections with our European counterparts and celebrating our shared bonds is both the highlight and the lasting impact of experiences such as this. Overall, the trip was both professionally rewarding and personally enriching, and we are very grateful for the opportunity to take part in such a meaningful exchange.