From 1 to 6 December 2024, the GROW project partners travelled to the stunning island of Madeira, Portugal, for an inspiring week of learning, culture, and environmental education.

Hosted by the Escola Básica com Pré Escolar Bartolomeu Perestrelo in Funchal, the mobility brought together students and teachers from all partner countries for a rich programme blending hands-on workshops, teacher training, and cultural discovery.

🏫 Day 1 — Welcome and School Activities

The mobility kicked off with a warm school reception, followed by a dynamic rotation of workshops: ceramics, collective and mathematical games, and creative activities. Students immediately bonded through an ice-breaking session, while teachers attended the Official Opening with presentations of each school's projects. The day ended with a fun city orientation activity through the streets of Funchal.

🌱 Day 2 — Nature and Non-Formal Education

A highlight of the week: students visited the Ecological Park of Funchal, where they took part in a reforestation activity — planting trees and learning about local biodiversity firsthand. Meanwhile, teachers attended a stimulating training session on Non-Formal Education and Active Learning, exploring innovative teaching methods through sample activities and workshops. In the afternoon, everyone enjoyed a guided cultural visit including the iconic CR7 Museum and the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers' Market).

🏔️ Day 3 — Exploring the Island

The third day was dedicated to discovering Madeira's breathtaking landscapes and culture. The group embarked on a tour of the island's most important sites, visiting Câmara de Lobos — the picturesque fishing village loved by Winston Churchill — and the dramatic natural pools of Porto Moniz on the northern coast. Students from São Vicente joined the group at the Escola Básica e Secundária Dona Lucinda Andrade, where they shared schoolyard entertainment activities and learned about each other's cultures.

🎓 Day 4 — Environmental Education and Farewell

The final programme day focused on environmental education in schools. Teachers attended a dedicated training session: "What is Environmental Education and how can it be applied in Schools", with a focus on problem-solving approaches in primary education. Students explored the FunArt Museum and marvelled at the spectacular Cabo Girão — one of Europe's highest sea cliffs, with its famous glass skywalk. The day also included a visit to Funchal's Town Hall and the innovative GeoLab.

The mobility concluded with a memorable farewell dinner at the Pestana CR7 Restaurant overlooking the sea, where participants received their certificates of participation and celebrated the bonds formed during this unforgettable week on the island. 🌊🌺