Smart teachers play more

The course was held in Reykjavik, Iceland and it was organized by “Smart Teachers Play More ehf”.

The objectives of the course were:

• to increase awareness of the physical and mental health of all the participants in the educational process

• to enrich the educational process with new methods and contents

• to strengthen inclusion and expand the ways of teaching

Jasna and Koraljka proudly introduced our school to the participants of the course with all its differences that make our school inclusive and rich. During the 7 days course they shared the “good practice”, activities and games that we use in our school with children who have special needs.

We become familiar with the ideology behind STPM (Smart Teachers Play More) project with real examples of how the STPM projects are working in Icelandic and Spanish schools. We experienced and used the activities of the STPM methodology which provide well-being through play, movement and all the senses. These activities included movement games, sensory play, storytelling techniques – all which provide opportunities for subject specific learning. We also learned how to use eco-friendly homemade resources as alternatives to the plastic versions that we often find in schools.

We visited the local school in Iceland to witness learning in action and get to know the Icelandic education system.

Iceland (Island) is a Nordic island country in the North Atlantic Ocean and the most sparsely populated country in Europe. The population is 371 000 inhabitants. Iceland's capital and the largest city is Reykjavík, which (along with its surrounding areas) is home to over 65% of the population. Official and national language is Icelandic. The climate of Iceland's coast is subarctic with the annual average temperature from 0 - 7°C.

Iceland is the only part of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge that rises above sea level, and its central volcanic plateau is erupting almost constantly. The interior consists of a plateau characterized by sand and lava fields, mountains, glaciers and many glacial rivers. Iceland is highly geologically active and has hundreds of volcanoes with about 30 active volcanic systems. There are many geysers (Geysir), rivers and waterfalls. Because of all these natural sources, availability of geothermal power and hydroelectricity, most residents have access to inexpensive hot water, electricity and heating.

Beautiful and unique country!