NordPlus Junior Project „Nature’s Harmony – Exploring Cultural Heritage”

The team from „Pažinimo Medis” Gymnasium (project coordinators) had the pleasure of meeting with partner schools from Latvia, Norway, and Denmark in Bergen from 27-30 September 2024. During this preparatory visit, the team collaborated on shaping the vision for the upcoming NordPlus Junior project, setting clear goals and exchanging ideas for engaging activities designed for teenagers.

Meeting in Bergen

During the meeting, the teachers collaboratively developed the vision for the new NordPlus Junior project, focused on exploring the cultures and nature of the Baltic and Nordic countries through hiking. They planned upcoming project activities, including nature hikes and cultural exchanges through literature, music, dance, and food traditions. The main focus will be on fostering general competencies, preparing students for responsible independent living, and promoting a healthy lifestyle. During the preparatory visit, the teachers discussed how hiking and nature exploration activities can help form friendships, encourage collaboration among teenagers, and strengthen their connection to nature.

Key guidelines for the future NordPlus Junior project:

1. Supporting Teenagers’ Mental Health and Personal Growth: Hiking activities will teach teenagers (aged 15–18) how to manage stress, develop emotional resilience, and enhance self-awareness, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones and find inner peace.
2. Exploring Cultural Heritage and Promoting Cross-cultural Understanding: Students will have the opportunity to explore various cultural traditions of Lithuania, Denmark, Norway, and Latvia through music, crafts, and food.
3. Experiential Learning and Life Skills: Students will be encouraged to take personal responsibility during the hikes, engaging in activities related to survival in nature, which will foster their leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
4. Creating Long-lasting Educational Resources: During the project, students will create tools such as the „Mindful Hiking Toolbox” and „Open Diary,” which will help both students and teachers share experiences, encourage self-reflection, and ensure the sustainability of the project.
5. Strengthening International Collaboration and Educational Innovation: The project will promote long-term partnerships between countries, sharing knowledge and innovative educational methods that will contribute to future joint initiatives.