Erasmus+ KA1
2024-2026
"Inclusion and digital litteracy through the School Library"
Through this Erasmus project, we aim to enhance the quality of education by integrating digital practices into the school library and fostering inclusion. By implementing best practices, we strive to create an engaging and interactive learning environment that improves teaching methods and promotes digital competence. Our objectives include strengthening students' digital skills, expanding their European awareness, and cultivating a culture of tolerance and openness. Ultimately, we seek to develop a more inclusive and innovative educational setting that benefits the entire school community.
March 2025 - Spain- Basque Country
(Group mobility)
Our school successfully completed its first group mobility activity in Renteria, Basque Country, Spain, from March 14 to March 21, 2025. Fifteen students from the 2nd and 3rd grades participated, accompanied by three staff members, as part of our Erasmus+ KA122 project "Inclusion, Innovation, and Digital Literacy through the School Library."
The visit began in Bilbao, where students explored the Old Town, visited the Bidebarrieta Central Library, engaged in interactive activities at the Guggenheim Museum, and toured the Azkuna Zentroa cultural center. Activities included QR code use, digital poster creation, creative writing, and audiovisual production.
In Renteria, students were warmly welcomed by Egiluze Errenteria Ikastetxea and hosted by local families. They attended lessons, presented their school, and participated in various educational and cultural activities, experiencing Spanish school life firsthand. They also visited key locations such as Pasai San Juan, San Sebastian Aquarium, Monte Urgull, Monte Igeldo, and Hondarribia.
The program aimed to strengthen European identity, intercultural communication, and digital literacy while promoting inclusion. Through active participation, students gained knowledge, developed essential skills, and built confidence.
The journey ended with project presentations and an emotional farewell. Students returned with unforgettable memories, valuable experiences, inspiring images, and wonderful new friendships.
March 2025 - Spain- Basque Country
(Job Shadowing)
The Greek language teacher Ioanna Chatzi successfully completed her job shadowing activity at Egiluze Errenteria Ikastetxea in Renteria, Spain, from March 14 to March 21, 2025. This activity was carried out within the framework of the Erasmus+ KA122 program titled "Inclusion, Innovation, and Digital Literacy through the School Library", implemented by the 8th Gymnasium of Lamia.
During her stay, the teacher followed a rich program of visits to major libraries, including the Bidebarrieta Central Library in Bilbao, the Library of the Azkuna Zentroa Cultural Center, and the Library of the Guggenheim Museum. She also visited cultural sites of interest such as the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and the San Telmo Museum in San Sebastián. There, in collaboration with the staff, she observed the organization, operation, accessibility for people with disabilities, and the use of technology. At the same time, by utilizing digital tools, she created interactive educational activities.
At Egiluze Errenteria Ikastetxea, the teacher participated in meetings with the school administration, teachers, and the school library coordinator. She attended History and Spanish language classes, took part in educational activities both inside and outside the school, and conducted a hands-on activity using a digital application at cultural sites in San Sebastián, in collaboration with the school's History teacher. Additionally, she observed the organization and operation of the school library and discussed topics such as the inclusion of students with disabilities, the use of digital tools and innovative teaching methods, as well as school education and working conditions for teachers in the Basque Country, which has an autonomous education system, like other autonomous communities in Spain.
This experience contributed to the professional development of the teacher, enhancing her knowledge in the use of school libraries, the application of digital tools, the promotion of intercultural understanding, and the strengthening of inclusion practices in the educational process.
June
2025
Finland
(Courses and Training)
In their upcoming seminar in Finland, four teachers from our school will have the opportunity to learn about innovative educational practices and advanced teaching techniques. They will participate in workshops focused on improving teaching methods, integrating technology into the classroom, and promoting active learning strategies. The seminar will also cover the latest trends in education, such as personalized learning and inclusive teaching practices. By engaging with educators from various European countries, our teachers will exchange ideas, discuss challenges, and gain new perspectives on how to enhance their teaching approaches. This experience will contribute to their professional development and help them bring fresh insights and methodologies back to our school.
June 2025 - Finland
(Training)
From July 7–12, 2025, four teachers from the 8th Gymnasium of Lamia participated in the training course “We are all special: Inclusion and Support for Students with Special Educational Needs Inside and Outside the Classroom” in Helsinki, Finland. The course, organized by Europass Teacher Academy, took place within the Erasmus+ project “Inclusion, Innovation and Digital Literacy through the School Library” (2024-1-EL01-KA122-SCH-000217857), co-funded by the European Union.
The seminar was chosen for its direct relevance to the school’s Erasmus+ priorities and its well-established Inclusion Department staffed by permanent teachers. It also reflects the ongoing effort to enhance the School Library as a dynamic hub for learning, innovation, and creativity. The delegation included Principal Georgia Tsouma (French Language), Ioanna Giannakopoulou (Mathematics), Christina Papakostopoulou (Special Education), and Ioanna Chatzi (Philology).
Throughout the week, participants gained valuable insight into the renowned Finnish educational model—recognized worldwide for its equality, quality, and learner-centered approach. In Finland, every child is seen as a unique individual with distinct strengths and needs. Education policies ensure that all students have equal access to learning opportunities, supported by appropriate resources, counseling, and social care.
A core element of Finnish culture and education is the concept of Sisu—a deeply rooted notion of perseverance, inner strength, and resilience in the face of challenges. This mindset underpins the Finnish attitude toward learning: persistence, emotional balance, and belief in every student’s potential. The course also focused on the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework, which promotes flexible learning environments, encouraging participation and success for all learners regardless of background or ability.
Another inspiring aspect was the emphasis placed on school architecture and its role in fostering collaboration, creativity, and well-being. Modern Finnish schools and public spaces, such as the famous Oodi Central Library in Helsinki, are designed as open, welcoming environments that make learning an integral part of community life.
During their visit to Oodi, participants experienced a living example of how Finland links education, culture, and democracy. Far more than a library, Oodi offers thousands of books and digital resources, recording studios, 3D printing labs, collaborative workspaces, and areas for rest and reflection—all freely accessible to everyone. Its symbolic location opposite the Finnish Parliament reflects the nation’s conviction that knowledge, culture, and democracy hold equal value.
This experience enriched the School Library of the 8th Gymnasium of Lamia with new books, translated educational materials, and adapted classroom practices inspired by the Finnish model. Most importantly, it strengthened the teachers’ belief that inclusive education is not only a pedagogical objective but also a daily practice grounded in empathy, cooperation, and respect for diversity.
For additional information, educational resources, and audiovisual material, please visit the school website and our YouTube channel.
March
2026
Poland
In their upcoming visit to a school in Poland, 10 students and 3 teachers will engage in a variety of educational and cultural activities aimed at enhancing their learning experience. They will participate in interactive lessons, explore different teaching methods, and work on collaborative projects with their Polish peers. The visit will provide an opportunity for students to practice their language skills, gain cultural insights, and deepen their understanding of European perspectives. Additionally, the teachers will observe classroom practices, exchange teaching strategies, and discuss ways to improve educational outcomes. This visit will foster cross-cultural connections and contribute to the personal and academic growth of both students and teachers.
October
2025
France
(Job Shadowing)
In their job shadowing experience in France, two language teachers from our school will have the opportunity to observe and collaborate with their French colleagues to enhance their teaching techniques. They will participate in various classroom activities, attend lessons, and explore innovative methods for teaching literature and language. This experience will allow them to learn how to integrate cultural elements into their lessons, improve student engagement, and use digital tools effectively in the language classroom. Additionally, the teachers will engage in professional discussions with other educators, exchanging ideas and strategies to improve their own teaching practices. This visit will contribute to their professional development and provide them with valuable insights to bring back to our school.