Calendar of Activities

The mobility commenced with a welcome and orientation session at the host school. Students participated in ice-breaker activities and group formation, before being introduced to the project theme and assigned their specific topics. The first day also included initial group work, where students brainstormed ideas, distributed roles, and began their preliminary research.

The projects undertaken by the students focused on critical environmental themes, including:

• Comparative analysis of marine species diversity.

• The impact of climate change on marine biodiversity.

• Overfishing and its effects on marine ecosystems.

• Climate change and sea turtles.

• Marine pollution: sources and solutions.

• Global shark fishing.

• Conservation efforts and marine protected areas.

Day two took students on an educational trip to El Prat de Llobregat. A key visit was to the CRAM Foundation (Conservation and Recovery Centre for Marine Animals), where students attended a workshop titled "Climate Change and Sea Turtles". Acting as researchers, they analyzed a scientific study on the consequences of climate change on sea turtle populations and received a guided tour of the CRAM facilities. This experience informed them about the impacts of climate change on marine turtles. Following this, students took a walk around the 

Llobregat river delta biological reserve, focusing on marine pollution, specifically the issue of plastics ending up in the water. This activity aimed to raise awareness about environmental issues, awaken critical thinking, promote debate, and empower students to become part of the solution.

On day three, students traveled to Somorrostro Beach in Barcelona. Here, they visited Anel Lides – Marine Environmental Services, where they participated in a workshop designed to understand current marine issues, with a particular focus on the use of plastics and the presence of microplastics in the water column. Students learned firsthand about different types of microplastics and their degradation times. The afternoon included a walk around the vibrant areas of Barceloneta and Ciutadella Park in Barcelona.

The fourth day was dedicated to intensive group work, allowing students ample time to delve into their assigned environmental topics. Students conducted in-depth research and prepared their final presentations. This focused time allowed them to deepen their knowledge regarding environmental issues and further develop their communication and teamwork skills through collaborative project work. During break time they had the chance to engage in sports at the gym of the school. 

The mobility culminated on the final day with Group Presentations, where students presented their projects using visual aids like posters. These presentations were followed by a debate session, allowing students to critically discuss their findings and proposed solutions. A "Round Table: Resilience for the Future" session further facilitated discussion before the official Closing Ceremony at Ateneu (St Fost Auditorium). The week concluded with a farewell brunch, marking the end of a fruitful collaborative experience.

Beyond the academic focus, students had ample opportunities to immerse themselves in the rich culture and vibrant life of Barcelona:

• They explored the city's iconic architectural masterpieces, including the breathtaking Sagrada Familia.

• Students also visited significant landmarks such as the Arc de Triomf and Casa Batlló.

• They explored the historic city center.

• A highlight for many was attending an FC Barcelona football match, an unforgettable cultural experience.

• Students also admired the National Palace of Catalonia and its surroundings.

The "Resilience for the Future" mobility provided a wealth of invaluable lessons and experiences, as articulated by the participating students:

Environmental Awareness: Students gained a profound understanding of how human actions impact marine life and the severity of environmental issues like climate change, overfishing, and pollution. They learned about specific threats like overheating affecting turtle populations and the imperative to control fishing to protect marine ecosystems.

Intercultural Communication & Collaboration: A significant benefit was the opportunity to interact and work collaboratively with peers from completely different countries and cultures. This fostered communication skills and a broader understanding of global perspectives and environmental challenges worldwide.

Personal Growth & Independence: The experience encouraged students to step out of their comfort zones, develop independence by navigating a new city, and form lasting friendships. The program offered an "incredible opportunity for every teenager to understand the world and the importance of this world for each of us".

Skill Development: Participants refined essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork through the research, analysis, and presentation of their projects. They learned how to synthesize information and present it clearly and concisely.

The mobility in Barcelona, as the final phase of the "Resilience for the Future" program, successfully provided students with the opportunity to develop crucial skills and knowledge related to sustainable development, while profoundly strengthening their intercultural understanding and cooperation.