Erasmus plus Adventure
Erasmus, Erasmus blogs, Projects

My Erasmus plus Adventure: A Transformative Educational Journey in Malaga

The 4 Cs: More Than Just Buzzwords

I recently returned home from a rich educational journey that I'm certain will have a lasting impact on my further work and personal development. The course, aptly named "The 4 Cs," delved deep into the essential pillars of Communication, Collaboration, Creativity, and Critical Thinking. Generously funded by the Erasmus+ initiative, these aren't merely trendy buzzwords but foundational life skills that are universally beneficial. This Erasmus+ adventure was a deep dive into skills that are not just theoretical but highly applicable in everyday life.

An Erasmus+ Adventure in Malaga: Where Learning Meets Personal Connection

I was fortunate to spend an enriching six days in the picturesque city of Malaga, situated in the heart of Spain's Andalusian region. Orchestrated by the highly competent Idevelop team based in Seville, this Erasmus+ adventure was nothing short of exceptional. Our trainer was not just an expert in the subject matter but also had an uncanny ability to connect with us on a personal level. Given that we were a compact group, the entire learning experience felt incredibly tailored, intimate, and personalized. We engaged in a series of thought-provoking exercises and meaningful discussions, with a special emphasis on honing our critical thinking abilities and mastering the art of non-violent communication. This Erasmus+ adventure was a catalyst for both professional and personal transformation.

Practical Application: The Real-World Impact

What set this course apart was its practical orientation. It wasn't just a theoretical exercise; we had ample opportunities to apply these invaluable skills in real-world teaching and learning facilitation scenarios. The course also served as a reflective mirror, prompting me to introspect about my limitations and biases. Confronting these aspects of oneself is never comfortable, but it's an essential step in personal growth and self-improvement. 

Exploring Malaga: The Cultural Bonus of My Erasmus+ Adventure

When the academic day came to a close, Malaga offered its own set of unforgettable experiences. The city is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, ranging from the majestic Alcazaba Fort to the enlightening Picasso Museum. Exploring Malaga is akin to stepping into a vivid, interactive history lesson. And let's not forget the culinary delights! The local cuisine was a gastronomic adventure featuring almonds, olives, avocados, and an array of aromatic Spanish spices.

Conclusion:

In summary, this Erasmus+ adventure is a must-attend for anyone who interacts with a diverse student body and aims to elevate their pedagogy and effective communication skills. When you combine that educational richness with Spain's cultural and scenic beauty, the result is far more than just an instructional course. It transforms into a life-altering Erasmus+ adventure that will undoubtedly influence both my future professional endeavors and personal growth.

Dženana Kalamujić

 This project was co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme.

Erasmus+ enriching lives, broadening minds.

@Agencija za mobilnost

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Erasmus
Blog eng, Erasmus

Erasmus Experience: Learning and Traveling for All Generations

Erasmus is not only for young people, but also for the elderly

Erasmus+ is a program that is innovative and inclusive, allowing all age groups to join and improve their skills. As life expectancy increases, so does the need for elderly people to receive additional training and education. One area that is particularly challenging to keep up with is rapid technological progress. In order for the elderly to live harmoniously and navigate in the 21st century, they need new skills. Through the "European Senior Exchange" project, we are focused on strengthening the digital skills of the elderly.

Through this project, we are focused not only on strengthening the health and physical abilities of the elderly, but also on mental health, the development of digital and language skills.

Throughout the 3 years of the project, elderly people participated in English language training that enabled them to communicate more easily and better with consciousness in a common and universal language.

Furthermore, in Kranj and Belgium, we learned how to use tools to make traveling easier.

As the last trip and training for our seniors, we visited Ghent. From Croatia, we had a team of 6 members made up of our dear students, teacher Domagoj and me. The training took place from May 15-19, and the topic was improving digital skills. The tools we adopted during the training were: the use of Google maps, and applications for public transport, such as Belgian Lijn, and their application for tracking train schedules.

In addition to digital skills, the social skills and connections we developed throughout this project were much more important.

We became richer for 40 new acquaintances shared across Europe, which enriched our lives and paved the way for us.

This experience was best described by the participants themselves:

Ankica Budimir: "This Erasmus trip to Ghent, for me, was indescribably beautiful, easy, educational, without any stress, even cheerful considering the team I was in." I met wonderful people and cities, learned to use applications that I have never used before."

Sjajna Zemčić: "I was in my own world and I was afraid of the courage with which I agreed to this Erasmus trip. And then Kranj opened up to me, many people for learning, socializing, walking, joy to show me how life is joy and happiness. And now the magic of Belgium, how to be relaxed and enjoy with good people. Most importantly, we learned (we should learn more) how to use computers and mobile phones to make every day easier and more beautiful in the beautiful areas of Kranj and Ghent. Thanks to the people in Kranj, Gent and the team. Lots and lots of praise means that the soul is touched."

Vesna Nikšić: "It was really a great pleasure for me to participate in this project, to see and learn a lot of things. The impressions from Kranj were wonderful, I think we "matched" well as a team and I was really looking forward to Belgium, which exceeded all expectations. I met so many wonderful and interesting people and I consider that the greatest value of the project. I am glad that I had the opportunity to see Kranj and Ljubljana and all the three cities we visited in Belgium, we walked and absorbed a lot, saw how everyday life works (e.g. public transport in Belgium), learned something about characteristic dishes, and especially Belgian chocolate and beer. The opportunity to listen and speak in English is precious to me and it is a big plus of this project. All the skills we learned at the workshops were both useful and fun. I'm sorry that the project is over, but somehow I believe that as a team we will continue to stay in touch and see each other for a coffee."

Katica Budimir: "This trip meant a lot to me, because when a person learns something, he is immediately richer, more satisfied. In addition to my knowledge of English and digital skills, on this trip I was enriched by pleasant human encounters and beautiful pictures of cities. Simply put, this trip was "soul food" for me. She would be overjoyed if there was a sequel."

Domagoj Biondić: "This is my fourth Erasmus trip under Jelena's baton and, just like the previous three times, it was absolutely fantastic. Visiting the country of the best chocolate and beer in the world is a truly unique experience. Every day was filled with adventures, unreal landscapes, fairy-tale buildings, places and events. In addition to all that, I learned how to use interesting, practical and very useful applications, and as an additional precious bonus I single out cooperation, connection, and socializing with other participants of this education. However, the most valuable gift that I personally received were all those wonderful moments spent with Ankica, Zabjana, Katica, Vesna and Jelena, which additionally taught me kindness, simplicity, patience, and living in the moment, and so generously provided me with the opportunity to practice everything those virtues. You are five in 5"

At the end of this trip with our wonderful participants and partners, we are grateful that we had the opportunity to witness the change we see in people during socializing, education and travel, because every new contact and learning enriches us and makes us better. We also remember with joy the memories that were given to us by the project participants who unfortunately left us: Giancarla, Dragica and Edvard. Thank you for everything.

Special thanks to the project managers: HIHSTAS from Belgium, and partners: CDI Ljubljana, LU Kranj, Agora from Italy

Thank you all and we hope to see you again soon.

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Erasmus
Erasmus, Erasmus blogs, Projects, Uncategorized

Erasmus Experience: Learning and Traveling for All Generations

Erasmus is not only for young people, but also for the elderly

Erasmus+ is a program that is innovative and inclusive, allowing all age groups to join and improve their skills. As life expectancy increases, so does the need for elderly people to receive additional training and education. One area that is particularly challenging to keep up with is rapid technological progress. In order for the elderly to live harmoniously and navigate in the 21st century, they need new skills. Through the "European Senior Exchange" project, we are focused on strengthening the digital skills of the elderly.

Through this project, we are focused not only on strengthening the health and physical abilities of the elderly, but also on mental health, the development of digital and language skills.

Throughout the 3 years of the project, elderly people participated in English language training that enabled them to communicate more easily and better with consciousness in a common and universal language.

Furthermore, in Kranj and Belgium, we learned how to use tools to make traveling easier.

As the last trip and training for our seniors, we visited Ghent. From Croatia, we had a team of 6 members made up of our dear students, teacher Domagoj and me. The training took place from May 15-19, and the topic was improving digital skills. The tools we adopted during the training were: the use of Google maps, and applications for public transport, such as Belgian Lijn, and their application for tracking train schedules.

In addition to digital skills, the social skills and connections we developed throughout this project were much more important.

We became richer for 40 new acquaintances shared across Europe, which enriched our lives and paved the way for us.

This experience was best described by the participants themselves:

Ankica Budimir: "This Erasmus trip to Ghent, for me, was indescribably beautiful, easy, educational, without any stress, even cheerful considering the team I was in." I met wonderful people and cities, learned to use applications that I have never used before."

Sjajna Zemčić: "I was in my own world and I was afraid of the courage with which I agreed to this Erasmus trip. And then Kranj opened up to me, many people for learning, socializing, walking, joy to show me how life is joy and happiness. And now the magic of Belgium, how to be relaxed and enjoy with good people. Most importantly, we learned (we should learn more) how to use computers and mobile phones to make every day easier and more beautiful in the beautiful areas of Kranj and Ghent. Thanks to the people in Kranj, Gent and the team. Lots and lots of praise means that the soul is touched."

Vesna Nikšić: "It was really a great pleasure for me to participate in this project, to see and learn a lot of things. The impressions from Kranj were wonderful, I think we "matched" well as a team and I was really looking forward to Belgium, which exceeded all expectations. I met so many wonderful and interesting people and I consider that the greatest value of the project. I am glad that I had the opportunity to see Kranj and Ljubljana and all the three cities we visited in Belgium, we walked and absorbed a lot, saw how everyday life works (e.g. public transport in Belgium), learned something about characteristic dishes, and especially Belgian chocolate and beer. The opportunity to listen and speak in English is precious to me and it is a big plus of this project. All the skills we learned at the workshops were both useful and fun. I'm sorry that the project is over, but somehow I believe that as a team we will continue to stay in touch and see each other for a coffee."

Katica Budimir: "This trip meant a lot to me, because when a person learns something, he is immediately richer, more satisfied. In addition to my knowledge of English and digital skills, on this trip I was enriched by pleasant human encounters and beautiful pictures of cities. Simply put, this trip was "soul food" for me. She would be overjoyed if there was a sequel."

Domagoj Biondić: "This is my fourth Erasmus trip under Jelena's baton and, just like the previous three times, it was absolutely fantastic. Visiting the country of the best chocolate and beer in the world is a truly unique experience. Every day was filled with adventures, unreal landscapes, fairy-tale buildings, places and events. In addition to all that, I learned how to use interesting, practical and very useful applications, and as an additional precious bonus I single out cooperation, connection, and socializing with other participants of this education. However, the most valuable gift that I personally received were all those wonderful moments spent with Ankica, Zabjana, Katica, Vesna and Jelena, which additionally taught me kindness, simplicity, patience, and living in the moment, and so generously provided me with the opportunity to practice everything those virtues. You are five in 5"

At the end of this trip with our wonderful participants and partners, we are grateful that we had the opportunity to witness the change we see in people during socializing, education and travel, because every new contact and learning enriches us and makes us better. We also remember with joy the memories that were given to us by the project participants who unfortunately left us: Giancarla, Dragica and Edvard. Thank you for everything.

Special thanks to the project managers: HIHSTAS from Belgium, and partners: CDI Ljubljana, LU Kranj, Agora from Italy

Thank you all and we hope to see you again soon.

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Erasmus, Erasmus blogs, Projects

Photo and Video Making in your Classroom: The Educational Power of Multimedia

Article also avaliable on EPALE.

Photo and Video Making in your Classroom: The Educational Power of Multimedia

May in Florence – doesn’t that just conjure up the most beautiful visions. Florence certainly did deliver. A picturesque and historic Italian city, blooming with flowers, alive with locals and tourists alike.

I visited Florence to attend a video-making course in order to learn some new techniques and ideas for our own school’s lessons. As I already create marketing and educational videos, I was really keen on finding out different ways to introduce video into our regular English lessons.

Our instructor was Riccardo, a young and technologically-savvy trainer, who taught us about different apps and special effects. My classmates were high school teachers from all over Europe, and we were all very interested in different methods we could incorporate into our own classrooms. Hearing about everyone’s teaching experiences really enabled us to understand the differences between our education systems, but also gave us an opportunity to connect over the similarities. I have made some great friends over this short course, and we keep in contact through social media. Some of them even follow our school now on Tiktok where we publish educational language videos.

Our course for the week in Florence was very hands-on and interactive. After some warm-up activities and introductions, we got right into shooting and creating our first video so that everyone could get familiar with cutting and editing clips.

The next day, after a fantastic tour of the centre of Florence, a paradise for art lovers, we made our own videos on Nearpod, a fantastic shared platform where teachers can post, share and utilise a great number of interactive videos, lessons and activities. We were given some great tips, like how to automate subtitling, how to simplify the editing process, and how to add quizzes and activities to our lessons. With such an abundance of content on this app, it will definitely be something to introduce into our own classes. Since most of our lessons are now online, it is only natural to expand our way of teaching and cross over more and more into the online world. Each of our teachers can create their own lessons, and then we can share content between ourselves, as well as any other teachers using the platform. It provides an array of ideas, many of which can be used in our own courses, and simplifies the way in which we create and share interesting lesson plans.

Kapwing was our next app, and although I had already used some basic Kapwing for some of my own videos, it was great to learn a few more tips from our trainer. Riccardo really helped us understand how and why to use special effects, stock photos, audio, etc.

On Thursday, we had a field day, trawling the streets of Florence during our ‘Goosechase’. We had downloaded this app which helps run real-world interactive experiences. Our trainer had marked about a dozen significant spots on a map of Florence, and we went on a treasure hunt, taking photos at the scene, and sending them back in real-time. We were competing against each other and had to find a tactic on how to reach every spot before the other teams. If one team reached a spot, we got a notification, which pushed us to speed walk back and forth across the Arno River and through the narrow streets in search of our next post. Florence is not so tiny – I think we walked over 7kms in those few hours! J Unfortunately, my team didn’t win the contest, but we had such a blast playing! This activity would be a fantastic addition to an outdoor learning lesson, which we could incorporate into our own lessons with our students. Not only would they learn more about the history and hidden spots of Zagreb and Split, but they would definitely enjoy the competitive nature of this activity.

Our last day focused on Claymation, the art of moving objects little by little, taking photos and creating videos from them. It is a very meticulous process, taking us nearly an hour to produce a video of only a few seconds. It was my first encounter with a stop-motion exercise, but saw that it could be a great activity for children, requiring a high level of concentration, energy and attention to detail.

Our final task was to make a video about Florence, utilising the skills we had acquired over the week. Some of us used a little stop-motion, some created an interactive quiz embedded in the video. We used our own footage and some online photos, and created mini-lessons as part of the video. This is a very dynamic way to teach any subject, and I think that it will enrich our own students’ learning experience, giving them different ways to immerse themselves in learning languages. As we all know, some of us learn better visually, some of us through audio, some of us with hands-on activities. I can’t wait to introduce some of these techniques into our lesson plans, giving our students a more colourful and proactive approach to learning.

Ema Barbir

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Unlock Your English Potential and Create Unforgettable Memories in Split, Croatia 🌟🇭🇷
Blog, Erasmus, Erasmus blogs, Uncategorized

Unlock Your English Potential and Create Unforgettable Memories in Split, Croatia

Unlock Your English Potential and Create Unforgettable Memories in Split, Croatia 🌟🇭🇷


Are you looking for a quick and efficient way to improve your English language skills? An English Callan course in Split through Erasmus KA1 might be just what you need! With the Callan Method, you'll learn English quickly and easily, all while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Split and making new friends from around the world. And the best part? It's just one week long!

The benefits of studying with the Callan Method are numerous. With the dynamic and fast-paced teaching approach, you'll speak as much as possible, building your fluency and confidence. The method is designed to mimic the speech pattern of native speakers, so you'll practice speaking and listening in a natural way. The instant correction and repetition will help you to quickly identify and correct any mistakes, ensuring that you progress quickly and effectively.

And the best part of studying an intensive Callan course in Split through Erasmus KA1 is that you'll be doing it all while enjoying a beautiful holiday in one of Europe's most stunning destinations. Split is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. During your week-long stay, you'll have the opportunity to explore all that Split has to offer, from sampling the local cuisine to taking part in cultural activities and experiencing the vibrant nightlife.

By the end of the week, you'll feel a new level of confidence when speaking English, and you'll be able to express yourself more clearly and accurately. You'll have developed lightning-fast reflexes, allowing you to recall words and phrases quickly and easily. And best of all, you'll have had an unforgettable holiday experience in one of Europe's most beautiful destinations.

So why wait? Sign up for an intensive Callan course in Split through Erasmus KA1 today and start your journey towards improved English language skills and an unforgettable holiday experience!

The Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Join Our Split Erasmus+ English Courses for Teachers

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KA1 Teacher Training: Master English with the Callan Method in Split, Croatia
Blog eng, English, Erasmus, Erasmus blogs, Uncategorized

KA1 Teacher Training: Master English with the Callan Method in Split, Croatia

Boost Your English Skills Through KA1 Teacher Training in Split

Are you a teacher seeking to enhance your English language proficiency? Discover the unique and effective Callan Method in the stunning setting of Split, Croatia, and say goodbye to conventional language learning methods that fall short.

The Callan Method: A Game-Changing Approach to Language Learning

The Callan Method, designed by Robin Callan in the 1960s, transforms language learning into an engaging game, keeping you motivated and focused throughout your journey. This innovative method, employed by thousands of students worldwide, emphasizes spoken English and conversation practice, allowing you to develop your language skills quickly.

Rapid Progress and Improved Pronunciation

One of the key advantages of the Callan Method is the swift progress students experience due to its strong focus on speaking and listening. As you constantly engage in conversation and practice correct pronunciation, you'll gain the confidence to use English in real-life situations.

A Highly Structured and Interactive Learning Experience

The Callan Method's structured approach combines vocabulary and grammar mastery with speaking and listening practice. This unique blend of elements ensures an effective language learning experience for students of all levels.

Maintain Focus and Track Your Progress

The Callan Method's interactive exercises and misdirection tactics help maintain your focus during lessons. Its structured nature also allows you to monitor your progress easily.

Discover the Beauty of Split, Croatia While Learning English

Immerse yourself in the language and culture of Split, Croatia, as you master English through the Callan Method. This picturesque coastal city, with its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, provides the ideal environment for language learning.

Boost Your Confidence and Create Lasting Memories

As you improve your English skills, you'll also gain confidence in your communication abilities, thanks to the Callan Method's emphasis on conversation practice. Moreover, the memories you create while learning in Split will make your language learning experience even more unforgettable.

Conclusion: Experience the Callan Method in Split, Croatia

Embrace the opportunity to learn English with the Callan Method through KA1 teacher training in Split, Croatia. Enhance your language proficiency, grow your communication confidence, and create lifelong memories in this beautiful city. With the Callan Method, you'll be speaking English confidently in no time!

Unlock the doors to a world of opportunity  and join us on a journey of discovery and fun in beautiful Croatia!


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Join us in Split or Zagreb

Our English Course has one goal, and that is to free you from your fear of speaking English! 

  • native speakers  
  • full immersion course 
  • dynamic and interactive classes

The Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Join Our Split Erasmus+ English Courses for Teachers

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Learn English in Croatia with Erasmus+
Erasmus, Erasmus blogs, Uncategorized

Learn English in Croatia with Erasmus+

A New Language and Adventure Combined

Are you looking for a chance to improve your English while enjoying a sun-soaked Summer adventure? Look no further than the Learn English in Croatia with Erasmus+ program, which provides the opportunity to learn English with Native speakers in one of Europe's most stunning nations. 

Enroll in a Callan Method English course to learn in a lively, engaging setting while being surrounded by beautiful tourist attractions and English-speaking locals.

Why Use the Callan Method to Learn English?

The Callan method is a fast-paced, organized, and effective method of learning English that has been around for more than 50 years. With a focus on improving speaking abilities, this method gives students the self-assurance to actively participate in discussions and increase their fluency.

To achieve optimum retention, the method is led by native English speakers and places an emphasis on repetition and active engagement. To help you overcome your anxiety of speaking in front of others and to enhance your grammar, pronunciation, and sentence structure, the teachers are qualified to offer real-time comments and adjustments.

Have an unforgettable Adventure in Croatia with Erasmus Plus

Have the best of both worlds, while you enhance your English skills, you will also have the opportunity to explore the beautiful tourist destinations of Zagreb or Split. These cities are bustling with locals who are more than happy to practice their English with tourists. Also with so many other tourists around you will have plenty of chances to practise your English.

You'll also have the opportunity to try new foods, immerse yourself in local culture, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Why Split

Split is a city of great beauty and rich history. It was founded as a Greek colony in the 3rd century BC and was later conquered by the Romans. The city is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a wealth of ancient architecture and cultural landmarks. The Palace of Diocletian, an ancient fortress that now serves as a museum and a cultural center, is a must-visit destination. In addition to the historical and cultural attractions, Split is also known for its delicious food and wine. The local cuisine includes fresh seafood, locally grown vegetables, and a variety of Mediterranean spices.

The city also serves as a gateway to some of the most beautiful islands in the Adriatic, such as Hvar, Brac, and Vis, which are known for their pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and lively nightlife. A visit to Split is sure to be an unforgettable experience that combines language learning with adventure, history, and culinary delights.

Read Top 10 reasons to go to Split with Erasmus+

The Perfect Destination for Teachers and Educators

The purpose of this Erasmus+ course is to give teachers and other educators the resources they need to gain confidence in speaking English in a professional capacity. It is also perfect for anyone looking to advance professionally or personally by honing their language abilities.

The training is intended for intermediate and advanced English speakers, and participants will be assessed before the course even starts on their language skills. The course will be adjusted to your level based on the results to make sure that everyone gets the most out of their experience.

Achieving Confidence and Fluency

The course's objective is to provide participants with the knowledge and abilities they need to speak English fluently and with confidence. You will actively participate in English conversations and workshops throughout the course, and you will receive instruction from qualified teachers on how to employ proper pronunciation and sentence structure.

Additionally, you will have the chance to develop your written communication skills for emails and letters as well as your spoken communication abilities for meetings, calls, and presentations. With the help of the Callan Method, you will be able to achieve fluency and confidence in your English speaking abilities in a short period of time.

The Cost of Adventure and Learning

The course participation fee is 480,00 EUR (covered by Erasmus plus fund) and includes all course materials, training and activities in the beautiful tourist destinations of Zagreb and Split.

Find out more about the Erasmus+ program, our organization and trainers, and payment options by visiting our website.

the Erasmus+ program provides a unique opportunity for teachers and educators to improve their English skills and immerse themselves in an unforgettable adventure in Croatia. Join the Callan Method English course and take the first step towards a journey of language and adventure!

Unlock the doors to a world of opportunity  and join us on a journey of discovery and fun in beautiful Croatia!


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Check out our English Language courses for teachers and other Erasmus+ courses

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Split with Erasmus+
Erasmus, Erasmus blogs, Uncategorized

Top 10 reasons to go to Split with Erasmus+

What makes a great Erasmus+ programme? Is it the innovative courses, the breathtaking location, or the inspiring people you meet along the way?

Well we would like to suggest to go to Split, Croatia with Erasmus+ this Summer for the above reasons. Our Erasmus+ offerings encompass all these elements and more, promising an educational journey that's as enriching as it is unforgettable. Here are 10 reasons why to go to Split for your Erasmus+ programme this Summer


1. Explore Diocletian’s Palace - an ancient Roman palace located in Split. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see and offers visitors the opportunity to explore its many chambers, courtyards, and subterranean chambers. 

2. Taste the Local Cuisine - Split offers a unique mix of regional Croatian and Mediterranean cuisine. Try some of the local specialties such as Dalmatian pašticada, pršut and cheese, as well as fresh seafood.

3. Enjoy the Beaches - the crystal clear Adriatic Sea and its numerous beaches make Split a great destination for lovers of the sun and sea. Relax on the sandy beach at Bačvice or go for a swim at pebble beach, Kašjuni. 

4. Go Island Hopping - Split is a great base for exploring nearby islands. Take a day trip to the picturesque islands of Brač and Hvar, or take a ferry to stunning Korčula. 

Learn to Speak English Confidently with Native Speakers in Beautiful Croatia! 

5. Visit Marjan Forest Park - a large, wooded hill on the west side of Split. Take some time to explore the many trails, scenic views, and churches in this beautiful park. 

6. Try the Local Wine - Croatia is known for its delicious wines, and Split offers some of the best. Visit a local winery to sample the local wines and find your new favourite. 

7. Appreciate the Architecture - Split’s architecture is a mix of old and new. Take a stroll through the old town and appreciate its Baroque and Gothic buildings, and modern structures. 

8. Discover the History - Split has a rich history, from ancient Roman times to the present day. Take a tour of the historic sites and learn about Split’s past. 

9. Participate in Festivals - Split is full of festivals throughout the year. Join in the fun and take part in the celebrations of art, music, food, and culture. 

10. Experience the Nightlife - Split offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of bars, clubs, and pubs. Spend a night out on the town!

Unlock the doors to a world of opportunity  and join us on a journey of discovery and fun in beautiful Croatia!


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Why can’t I speak English?
Blog eng, Erasmus blogs

Why can’t I speak English?

Taking an English training course can help teachers develop their own English language skills, which can be beneficial for their personal and professional development.

There are people who seem like they don’t have any problems when it comes to speaking English. When they speak, it seems they are fluent and not struggling with anything.

On the other hand, when we find ourselves in a situation where we have to speak English, it seems very scary. We understand others when they speak, we can understand everything we have read, but when it comes to speaking, we just can’t - the words just won’t come out! This is one very common, frustrating situation that anyone who has ever tried to learn English has found themselves in.

The Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Join Our Zagreb Erasmus+ English Courses for Teachers

Why does this happen? If you think that the right approach to learning a language is the classic, academic way, then the chances of you succeeding are going to be very small. Why? You know everything in theory, but in practice, when you need to express your thoughts in certain situations, you just can’t. You translate from Croatian, Spanish, etc. into English, you can’t apply the rules of grammar in practice, and let's not even talk about speed and how unnatural it all sounds. How to put an end to this?

At our school, we emphasise the fact that learning a language is going to be much more productive if you look at it as acquiring a new skill. However, in order to acquire this skill you have to practise a lot, study regularly and be patient. In the beginning, you will make a lot of mistakes, but don’t be embarrassed or get discouraged. Allow yourself to make mistakes and let other correct you - that is the best and quickest way to learn. A language needs practice - the more you speak, the better and easier it will be. Through guided conversation and learning with native speakers we encourage you to think in English and speak spontaneously, without translating. You are going to learn English 4 times faster through this repetition, having your mistakes corrected and real-life examples. Also, you are going to start speaking with confidence! Inicijativa also makes sure to make it possible for its students to access extra programs and activities alongside their regular classes, in order to have them constantly surrounded by English. Everything we do works towards one goal - that is for you to learn English and be able to use it as soon as you walk out of the school.

THE MAIN GOAL AT INICIJATIVA IS FOR YOU TO ACTUALLY START SPEAKING ENGLISH

We teach you how to speak English using the Callan method - a fast method for learning English. The method itself is based on certain questions that the teacher asks and the students answer. Learning grammar and new vocabulary is a bit different. The teacher first explains the new words or grammar, gives you examples, and then asks you questions so you immediately start using what you have just learned. The teacher answers alongside the students to make sure they are using the correct grammar and order of words in a sentence. This means you are practising English using real life examples you will be able to use outside the school. 

1. SPEAKING WITHOUT TRANSLATING

During the lessons we speak very fast so you get used to the way native speakers speak, and  become familiar with the language. It is natural to speak fast - you need to be prepared for real-life situations where you won’t have time to think in your own language. There is no time to stop and think about grammar, we teach you to speak spontaneously. In this way, you will be able to understand TV speech, radio shows, job interviews, etc. You will be able to communicate fluently and confidently. We don’t have any boring exercises. Only talking, talking and more talking.

2. REPETITION

We are going to repeat everything many times to make sure you remember it. If you repeat a lot you will learn how to speak without translating. You will speak automatically, without translating. 

3. CORRECTION

We are going to correct you every time you make a mistake. This will help you improve your English. You will feel more confident, improve your pronunciation and learn how to speak properly. 

If you are done with paying for regular classes after which you are still terrified of speaking, and are looking for new English courses, we have a suggestion for you!

You don’t have to believe us, come see for yourselves how fast you can start speaking English. 

The Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Join Our Split Erasmus+ English Courses for Teachers

Dowload our new eBook: 10 Tips for a successful KA1 Erasmus+ experience





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Erasmus blogs, Projects

Leadership and Management in Schools – Valencia Experience

The Teacher Academy training course 'Leadership and Management in Schools' held in Valencia in October 2022 was intended for members of educational establishments who wish to further their management skills and serve as leaders to their schools to the best of their ability.

The training participants were school principals and vice-principals, head teachers, and administrative staff from different European countries who have multiple years of experience behind them. Their passion and pride in being part of educational establishments that help elevate personal and social life was prominent in everyone.

There was a sense of togetherness bound by the love of our job, but also a sincere curiosity for others' experiences and feedback, as everyone there had surprisingly different school organisation, approaches, and roles inside the school system.

This diversity made the program more enjoyable, as it proved the point that there is no one (perfect) way of managing a school. Flexibility, adaptability, creativity, and compassion for the needs of others are all crucial skills for a good manager. It isn't always just about logic and chasing goals.

We were also lucky enough to have a representative of the praised Finnish school system among us, whose take on student integration and the challenges coming from the current political events were highly educational and thought-provoking.

Setting goals and overcoming differences 

The program touched upon the methodologies of setting goals and their completion. A well throughout, measurable, and relevant goal is half the success. We were given tools, e.g. Trello, that are a practical representation of the lessons learned.

The majority of the material was focused on working with people, understanding the differences in personality, character, and the general sense of work dynamics and culture. We discussed possible managing styles and their perceived outcomes. Every new topic fell back on introspection and defining our identity as a leader now and the ideal we strive for.

Taking the time to get to know your team properly and being aware of their weaknesses and strengths, establishing quality, open communication lines helps tremendously in proficient work assignment and execution. To achieve that, we discussed possible meeting tactics, negotiation, and conflict resolution principles. One interesting and fun activity was taking the 16 personality test, which led to some surprising results.

The week-long training on leadership and management in schools gave us a lot to think about and further explore in the future. The culturally rich, welcoming, and architecturally breathtaking city of Valencia made the whole experience that more enjoyable.

Mobility of course participant is enabled within the project "Step up", code number: 2021-1-HR01-KA122-ADU-000018329. 

The project is funded by the European Union. 

Erasmus +: Enriching lives, opening minds.

Monija Škriljevečki

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