The Erasmus+ Program provided students from the D. JosĂ© I School Group, in Vila Real de Santo AntĂłnio (VRSA), the opportunity to participate in mobility to Poland between October 12th and 19th. The group, composed of six students from the 9th year and four from the 8th year, accompanied by teachers, had the chance to expand their academic and cultural knowledge through a series of educational and interactive activities. During their stay, students not only exchanged experiences with Polish classmates, but also explored Poland’s rich culture and history, visiting significant sites and participating in classes on local culture.
The Erasmus+ program was a remarkable experience for the students of the D. JosĂ© I School Group, in Vila Real de Santo AntĂłnio (VRSA). Between the 12th and 19th of October, a group made up of ten young people from the 8th and 9th years participated in a mobility trip to Krakow, Poland, where they had the chance to expand their academic and cultural horizons. During this week, students experienced moments that enriched their education, interacting with Polish classmates and exploring the country’s cultural richness.
Search for new educational experiences
Erasmus+ is a program that aims to offer young people cultural and educational discoveries outside their country. The initiative aims to promote mobility of students, allowing them to acquire new skills and meaningful experiences. For VRSA students, this mobility to Poland provided the opportunity to immerse themselves in a different culture, learn about local teaching methods and strengthen ties with foreign colleagues.
Sur le meme sujet
Expectations and fears before the trip
When the students shared with their families about the trip, there was some apprehension on the part of parents, worried about safety and the distance of the location. However, this uneasiness soon turned into enthusiasm as the experience had a positive impact on the lives of the young people. Upon arriving in Poland, the host students were eager to welcome their Portuguese classmates, revealing that they had already visited some emblematic cities in Portugal and now wanted to explore the south of the country.
Sur le meme sujet
Cultural and social exchange
During their stay, interactions between VRSA students and their Polish colleagues were surprisingly simple, despite the language barrier. Mastery of the English language, spoken in both institutions, facilitated communication, allowing fluid cultural exchanges during classes and activities. The students realized that, although the Poles were initially more reserved, they gradually became close and created bonds of friendship during the trip.
Sur le meme sujet
Historical exploration in Krakow
The program included a visit to the historic center of Krakow, where students were able to learn about Polish history and culture in a practical and engaging way. The school director welcomed the Algarve students to a History and Culture class that greatly enriched their experience. One of the most impactful moments was the visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial, which led students to a deep reflection on the past and the importance of preserving history.
Sur le meme sujet
Discovering Polish cuisine
The adventure also had a significant gastronomic component. During their stay, students tried typical dishes, such as Żurek soup and the Oscypek, a smoked cheese from the Tatra Mountains region. Many new things have emerged, such as the Polish habit of having dinner earlier than the Portuguese are used to. This generated curiosity and interaction between the two groups, who were able to compare their gastronomic traditions.
Sur le meme sujet
Reflections on the future
After the experience, the Polish students considered the possibility of studying or living in another country, with the certainty that the English language could help them overcome language barriers. VRSA students expressed their preference for life in Portugal, but some were open to the idea of ​​living abroad, highlighting the importance of the experience gained during mobility. The unanimous opinions were that such experience is fundamental for personal and professional development.
Sur le meme sujet
Conclusion
The Erasmus+ mobility to Poland was, without a doubt, a transformative experience for the students of the D. José I School Group. The program not only broadened their academic horizons, but also strengthened intercultural ties, offering learning that goes beyond the classroom and impacting their lives in meaningful ways.
Comparison of Erasmus+ Experiences
| Aspect | Experience in Poland |
| Participants | VRSA 8th and 9th year students |
| Duration | From October 12th to 19th |
| Objective | Academic and cultural enrichment |
| Cultural interaction | Exchanges with Polish students |
| Notable visits | Auschwitz and Zakopane |
| Language | Communication in English |
| Activities | History and Culture Classes |
| Typical foods | Żurek and Oscypek |
Between the 12th and 19th of October, a group of students from the D. José I School Group, located in Vila Real de Santo António (VRSA), participated in an Erasmus+ mobility that took them to the “Kolegium Europejskie” School in Krakow, Poland. This experience was especially meaningful, allowing students to expand their academic and cultural horizons, while interacting with new classmates and learning about the rich Polish history and traditions.
Meeting of Cultures
The students, which included six from the 9th year and four from the 8th, embarked on a journey that provided direct contact with Polish culture. Upon arrival, the enthusiasm was palpable among the host students, who were honored to welcome the young people from Portugal. Visiting places like the Shindler Museum and historic Krakow allowed students to have unique experiences, as well as expanding their friendship networks around Europe.
Challenges and Overcoming
Some parents’ initial fears about the trip were quickly dispelled as students shared their experiences within the program. The language barrier did not prove to be a significant obstacle, as English is widely taught in both schools. Students shared that communication was easy and productive, allowing for an enriching exchange of ideas and a better understanding of teaching methods used in Poland.
Impactful Experiences
One of the most memorable experiences was the visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau, which provided moments of deep reflection on history and the importance of preserving memory. Students reported that the experience was “impactful”, promoting a deeper understanding of topics covered in class.
Moments of Leisure and Coexistence
In addition to educational activities, students also enjoyed leisure time, including tasting typical dishes such as Żurek and the Oscypek. Group activities, such as walks along the Chochołowska Dolina, fostered team spirit and an appreciation for local nature. This combination of learning and leisure created lasting memories and reinforced the importance of experiences outside the traditional school environment.
Future in the Erasmus+ Program
THE Erasmus+ Program continues to be an excellent opportunity for students, not only in VRSA, but across Europe. Polish students expressed their desire to have more experiences abroad, highlighting the relevance of studying in other countries as a way of personal and academic growth. To find out more about Erasmus+ opportunities, visit official program page.
- Opportunity: International student mobility.
- Host institution: School “Kolegium Europejskie” in Krakow.
- Participants: Six students from the 9th year and four from the 8th.
- Objective: Expand academic and cultural knowledge.
- First impressions: Polish students excited to welcome Portuguese students.
- Resilience: Removal of the language barrier with the English language.
- Activities: Polish History and Culture classes in the historic center.
- Notable visits: Auschwitz-Birkenau and Zakopane.
- Cultural experience: Tasting traditional Polish dishes.
- Exchange of traditions: Exchange of experiences between Algarve and Polish students.
Introduction
The Erasmus+ Program provides students from the D. José I School Group in Vila Real de Santo António (VRSA) the chance to participate in mobility in Kraków, Poland. This initiative, held between October 12th and 19th, allows students to experience a enriching educational experience, expanding your academic and cultural knowledge while interacting with colleagues from different parts of Europe.
A Unique Learning Opportunity
Erasmus+ mobility offers students the chance to experience a diverse learning environment where they can become familiar with different teaching methods. During their stay, Portuguese students must attend classes at the host school and participate in activities involving local culture. This practical experience complements the theoretical knowledge acquired in the classroom and promotes intercultural understanding.
Cultural Interaction
Cultural exchanges are a fundamental part of the program. VRSA students have the opportunity to learn about Polish traditions, customs and history. Through visits to historic landmarks such as Wawel Castle and the Jewish quarter of Kazimierz, students not only learn about the past, but also understand the cultural richness that the country offers. These experiences help build bonds and friendships between students from different backgrounds.
Overcoming Language Barriers
One of the challenges faced by students during mobility is the language barrier. However, English language teaching at both schools facilitates communication between students. Many students report that they were able to interact easily with their Polish peers, promoting a collaborative learning environment. This aspect is crucial, as language is one of the main tools for cultural exchange.
Personal and Academic Impact
Participating in the Erasmus+ program is not only an academic learning opportunity, but also an experience of personal growth. Students have the chance to become more independent and responsible when away from home. Living with colleagues from other cultures teaches values ​​such as empathy, respect and adaptation to new realities.
Reflection on History
Visiting sites of historical importance, such as Auschwitz-Birkenau, offers a moment of deep reflection on the horrors of the past. Students experience in practice the lessons that history brings, promoting meaningful discussions about tolerance, human rights and the impact of wars. This type of learning is extremely valuable and stands out in the reports from students, who report feelings of empathy and solidarity.
Gastronomic and Cultural Experiences
Cuisine is another aspect that enriches the Erasmus experience. Students have the opportunity to taste traditional Polish dishes, such as soup Żurek and the cheese Oscypek. These gastronomic experiences not only satisfy palates, but also serve as a starting point for discussions about eating habits, traditions and the cultural differences regarding food between Portugal and Poland.
Formation of New Bonds and Friendships
Exchanges facilitate the formation of new friendships. Students share their experiences, learn about each other’s lives and create bonds that often last after the program ends. These connections are important for building a network of contacts that can benefit students in the future, both personally and professionally.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Erasmus+ Program
What is the objective of the Erasmus+ Program? The Erasmus+ Program aims to provide students and young people with the opportunity to study, intern and gain experience abroad, promoting education, training and international mobility.
When did the mobility of students from the D. José I School Group occur? The mobility took place between October 12th and 19th of the 2024/2025 academic year.
How many students participated in the mobility to Krakow? A total of ten students, six from the 9th year and four from the 8th year, participated in the mobility.
How was the idea of ​​the trip received by the students’ parents? Initially, the parents were apprehensive about the trip, but they quickly changed their minds after hearing more about the experience.
What were the students’ impressions of the host students in Poland? The students found that, although the Polish students were more reserved, they were very welcoming and ended up becoming friends.
What was the activity that coincided with the students’ stay in Poland? During the Erasmus week, the students watched a football match between Portugal and Poland in a café, maintaining a friendly atmosphere among themselves.
What was the communication like between the students from different countries? The language barrier was overcome, as English is taught in both schools, facilitating communication during interactions and classes.
What was the most impactful experience of the visit to Poland? The visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau was particularly moving for the students, providing a deep reflection on the horrors of the Holocaust.
What typical Polish dishes did the students try? The students had the opportunity to taste the Żurek soup and the smoked Oscypek cheese, typical of the region.
What were the students’ opinions regarding the possibility of studying abroad in the future? The Polish students considered that studying abroad could be a good experience, while the students from the Algarve preferred to stay in Portugal, although some saw the possibility of living abroad.
What was the final reflection on the Erasmus+ experience? The experience promoted the development of intercultural skills and highlighted the importance of an education that goes beyond the classroom walls.
