During our stay in Helsinki, we had the opportunity to participate in a Job Shadowing at Märsky Athletics and Education, Finland’s largest sports-focused school. This experience allowed us to observe firsthand the flexibility of the Finnish education system and the autonomy students are given to manage their own learning.

At Märsky, the academic year is divided into five periods of approximately two months each, enabling students to plan their curriculum and adapt their studies to their individual needs and abilities. Students can choose subjects, switch courses, and even select their teachers, all under the supervision of the school administration. This flexible structure encourages responsibility, motivation, and self-management, essential skills for long-term learning.

Digitalization as a Learning Tool

One of the most notable aspects of Märsky is its emphasis on digitalization, which complements rather than replaces traditional books. Students use digital textbooks and interactive platforms for nearly all subjects, allowing them to access materials, exercises, and assignments from their own devices. Exams, including the Matriculation Exams, are also conducted digitally, enabling students to work independently even when absent from class.

At the same time, some teachers continue to use paper books, especially for subjects where handwritten notes and reflection are important. This combination ensures that students develop digital competencies while retaining traditional literacy skills.

The Importance of the Matriculation Exam

Another key aspect we observed is the significance of the Matriculation Exam, Finland’s national university entrance exam. While grades from upper secondary school do not determine university admission, the exam serves as the primary criterion, emphasizing competence and essential knowledge rather than just final course grades.

Academic and Athletic Integration

The daily schedule at Märsky combines academic and athletic training. Students train in their sports disciplines each morning while attending general and elective courses. Teachers keep detailed records of each lesson, allowing students to catch up independently if they miss class. The school also provides support and remedial classes for students who need extra help, ensuring that no one falls behind.

During our visit, we attended lessons in English, Art, Biology, and Spanish, observing how students work collaboratively and autonomously, using both digital and traditional materials, engaging in interactive activities, and developing social, emotional, and academic skills. The methodology promotes cooperation, mutual respect, and inclusive learning, contributing to a safe and stimulating school environment.

Excellence in Education and Sport

Märsky is recognized for its commitment to holistic education and elite sports training. Many professional athletes have studied there, and the school maintains strong connections with the Urhea National Training Center, where around 10,000 athletes train and study each year.

Our experience confirmed that the Finnish model successfully combines flexibility, student autonomy, digital integration, and competence-based assessment, preparing young people for both university and an active, athletic lifestyle. Märsky exemplifies how education can adapt to the talents and needs of each student, fostering personal and collective success.

 On  October 16th, we celebrated World Food Day at our school, with 3rd ESO students taking the lead.

This year’s theme was healthy eating, and our students prepared several activities to explore it in depth. First, they reflected on their eating habits ; what we eat, how it affects our health, and how we can make better choices every day.

They also organised a Healthy Pintxo Contest,  the rules were created and agreed upon by the participants themselves, based on the principles of balanced and sustainable nutrition. One of the key rules was that all ingredients had to be brought from home, promoting responsible consumption and reducing food waste.

The result was the elaboration of  healthy, colourful, and creative pintxos, full of flavour and imagination.

This celebration gave students the chance to learn, collaborate, and share the importance of responsible eating.

Finally, here is our video summary of this inspiring day:

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From September 29th to October 2nd, 2025, Gemma Gutiérrez (Erasmus+ coordinator) and Edurne Ruiz (English teacher at Elexalde High School) took part in a Job Shadowing at Mäkelänrinteen Lukio, a secondary school in Helsinki, Finland.

During this stay, both teachers had the opportunity to:

Learn about the organization and functioning of the school.

Attend various lessons in subjects such as English, French, Spanish, and Arts, observing Finnish teaching methodologies.

Participate in meetings with the school leadership team and student counsellors, gaining insight into the Finnish educational system and guidance resources.

Interact with international students and tutors, learning about the experience of studying in Finland.

Explore educational digitalization and innovative teaching strategies.

 new school year brings with it an exciting calendar 

The new school year brings with it an exciting calendar of Erasmus+ activities that will once again connect our school with Europe.

In October, two teachers will travel to Helsinki, Finland, to take part in a job shadowing programme. This experience will give us the chance to closely observe the Finnish educational system, widely recognised for its innovative methodologies, student-centred learning.  Our teachers will gain first-hand insights into the strengths of Finnish education, which will later inspire new practices in our own classrooms.

In spring, two students' mobilities will take place: one to Rome (Italy) and another to central Croatia, in April and May respectively. These mobilities will allow our students to immerse themselves in new cultures, develop their linguistic and intercultural skills, and share enriching learning experiences with their European peers.

Meanwhile, in March, two teachers will attend a training course in Malta focused on Artificial Intelligence in education. The course will provide participants with innovative tools and strategies to integrate AI into teaching and learning.

March will also be a special month of cultural exchange at home. Our school will welcome partner schools from Italy, Croatia and Lithuania, who will visit us as part of the Erasmus+ cooperation. Hosting our European colleagues will strengthen bonds of friendship and collaboration, while also offering our students the opportunity to showcase their culture and daily life.

With these activities, IES Elexalde reaffirms its commitment to fostering internationalisation, innovation and cultural diversity, ensuring that both students and teachers continue to grow in a European learning environment.

Fom May 24th to 31st, a group of eight students and two teachers from the English and History departments travelled to Caserta (Italy), where they were warmly welcomed by the Istituto Mattei. Throughout the week, in addition to living with host families, the students took part in a range of activities focused on developing a critical and responsible digital citizenship.

The programme was enriched with cultural visits to iconic sites in southern Italy such as Sorrento, Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii, and concluded with an original fashion show inspired by Vietnam, designed and organised by the host school’s students.

This Italian experience,  enriched the students’ personal development and strengthen their linguistic and intercultural skills.

Galdaka

Eighty-eight years have passed, but the pain still echoes. Today, Galdakao gathered to remember one of the darkest days in its history: the bombing of May 19, 1937, when 16 townspeople lost their lives at the entrance of the Plazakoetxe shelter during a brutal air raid carried out by Franco's forces.

The tribute, held in the very place where the tragedy unfolded, brought together families of the victims, local authorities, cultural figures, and residents of Galdakao. The siren that once warned of death was sounded again—not to alarm, but to remind. It marked the beginning of a deeply moving ceremony led by Human Resources Councilor Eguzkiñe Gezuraga, who spoke of the lives lost and a future stolen too soon.

Music opened the gathering, with students from the Máximo Moreno Music School performing Xabier Lete’s haunting “Xalbadorren Heriotzean.” The symbolism was powerful: a song of sorrow, sung by the youth who carry the legacy of memory forward.

Mayor Iñigo Hernando reflected on the larger context of that day, when German planes bombed Basque towns under Franco’s orders in an effort to erase a culture, a language, an identity. “But they failed,” he declared. “The people rose up, and generations later, we are still here—our language spoken, our values alive.”

The only known survivor of the attack, Mari Carmen Tutor, stood quietly among the crowd. She lost her mother, sister, and grandmother that day. At her side were her cousin, Agurtzane Yurrebaso, and Enrique Jugo, whose brother Moisés died at just 11 years old. Jugo, speaking for the families, shared not only the pain of the past, but also a message of solidarity with all those who, even today, suffer the consequences of war. “It’s happening again elsewhere,” he said. “That’s why we must keep telling our story.”

A moment of surprise and beauty arrived when local artist Ángel Díaz gifted the town a hand-carved wooden replica of Picasso’s Guernica. The mayor and victims’ families received it on behalf of the town, and it will now be displayed in the Town Hall’s plenary room—a permanent reminder of both devastation and resilience.

As the tribute drew to a close, dancer June Sánchez performed the Agurra, a traditional Basque dance of respect and farewell, accompanied by the saxophone of Eneko Arraibi and a specially composed poem by Irati Bediaga. A final floral offering at the monument brought the event full circle—each flower a gesture of memory, each hand an act of commitment to peace. BHI has set its sights on 

Elexalde BHI has set its sights on improving the emotional, physical, and social well-being of its entire school community — students, teachers, and staff. With students at the centre, the school decided to take part in Aktibatuz, a project led by Farmamundi Euskadi that promotes community health and personal empowerment. The goal is clear: to make the school a more welcoming and positive place for everyone, embracing its diversity and caring for each individual.

To this end, 1st-year secondary students were given a voice and, over four weeks, they worked on the following:

Understanding and defining what a healthy school means.

Observing and identifying existing strengths (active health assets) in the school.

Discussing how these assets can be improved.

Proposing an action plan for the 2025–2026 school year. Their main suggestion: improving the schoolyard to make it more inclusive and enjoyable. 

Two teachers from Elexalde Secondary School – Marta Gaitero (English) and Naia Gastelu (Technology and 2030 Agenda) – took part in a one-week job shadowing experience at Prezidento Adamkaus Gimnazija in Lithuania. The mobility allowed them to explore an educational model that blends tradition, pedagogical innovation, and a strong commitment to sustainability.

The school stands out for its well-structured organization and its emphasis on student autonomy. During their observations of both primary and secondary classes, the teachers witnessed a range of methodologies: from theoretical and practical lessons to the use of digital tools and project based learning focused on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

One of the highlights of the week was the international event “Eco Ideas for Lithuania 2025,” where students showcased environmentally themed projects and sold handmade products, an  example of youth-led entrepreneurship and environmental awareness.

In addition to classroom observations, the visits to Vilnius and Trakai, along with international exchange forums involving schools from Portugal, Rome, Tenerife, and amusicschoolfrom Lithuania  enriched the experience with opportunities for intercultural dialogue and potential future collaborations.

This job shadowing experience offered valuable insights into innovative, studens ' practices and served as a source of inspiration for developing more approaches to education back home.

From April 27 to May 2, a group of students from Elexalde BHI, accompanied by two of their teachers,TheEnglishteachrrEdurne Ruiz and the coordinator of the project Gemma  Gutierrez   took part in an Erasmus+ mobility program in Kaunas, Lithuania. Together with students from Latvia and Lithuania, they shared an unforgettable week filled with learning, discovery, and cultural exchange.

Hosted by local families, the students had the unique opportunity to experience everyday life in Lithuania while building lasting bonds across cultures.

 Throughout the week, they participated in international workshops focused on renewable energy, cultural diversity, and sustainability topics that encouraged reflection, teamwork, and creative thinking.

The program also included enriching cultural visits to key Lithuanian landmarks such as the city of Kaunas, the historic castle of Trakai, and the vibrant capital, Vilnius. These excursions offered insights into the country’s rich history ,and  traditions 

Beyond the academic and cultural activities, the mobility provided an space for personal growth. Students practiced their English in real-life contexts, developed greater confidence, and formed new friendships that crossed borders.

 One participant summed up the experience beautifully: “We felt so welcomed. It’s an experience we’ll never forget.”

This Erasmus+ exchange was much more than a school trip—it was a reminder that Europe is also built through each students'mobilities    every friendship, and the cshared experiences that bring us closer together.

On Thursday, April 10, from 11:45 to 12:40, Elexalde BHI held its annual Mini-Congress for all DBH EKO-representatives in the main hall. The aim of the gathering was to review the initiatives carried out throughout the 2024–2025 school year and to share the plans for the rest of the academic year. After the event, the EKO-representatives will pass the information on to their classmates and collect feedback, fostering active student participation.

The congress was divided into three main sessions, all connected to the goals of the 2030  Agenda.

Healthy School: Proposals for making Elexalde a more welcoming, inclusive and healthy environment.

Healthy Town: A look back at the actions taken to improve the community and the next steps forward.

Our Erasmus+ project, "Create and Experience a Better Europe," and Elexalde's Agenda 2030 share a common vision: promoting sustainable and equitable global development. Through our project ,     students'mobilities, jobshadowing and training courses in Europe , our students face the global challenges of our society.

Convergence of Objectives: Elexalde Erasmus+ and Agenda 2030

Our Erasmus+ project reflects a commitment to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being: Participation of our students in different  international mobilities—Berlin, Warsaw, Caserta, Lithuania—promotes healthy habits and a greater awareness of physical and mental well-being.

SDG 4: Quality Education: Exposure to different educational systems enriches the training of students and teachers (through job shadowings) and promotes inclusive and quality educational practices.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities: Our mobilities promote social inclusion and equity by providing opportunities for students facing economic or academic challenges to access international experiences.

SDG 13: Climate Action: Our students have participated in projects organized by our partners related to climate change, increasing their awareness and commitment to environmental protection.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals: Student mobility strengthens international collaboration and global networks, essential for the effective implementation of the SDGs.

Highlighted Cases: Integrating Erasmus+ and the SDGs

Educational Exchanges with Poland, Romania, Estonia, Lithuania: Through job-shadowing activities, teachers and students have shared experiences and methodologies that enrich quality education (SDG 4).

Sustainability Projects in Berlin, Warsaw, Caserta, and Elexalde: These initiatives have addressed sustainability and climate change topics,  SDG 13.

Upcoming Mobility to Lithuania: A visit to an "eco-friendly" center is planned, where topics related to climate action (SDG 13) will be addressed.

Promotion of Active Citizenship: One of the objectives of the Erasmus+ plan is to train active citizens; in collaboration with our partners, efforts have been made to promote peace, justice, and the strengthening of solid institutions (SDG 16).

These initiatives demonstrate how the collaboration between Elexalde's Erasmus+ students and Agenda 2030 is crucial for them. They  are learning to commit to a sustainable and equitable future.

As  in previous years, Elexalde High School participated in the 2025 regional sessions of the European Youth Parliament (EYP) in Bilbao.

Four students from ESO and two students from 1 Bachiller took part in this event. They met students from some prestigious Biscay schools, such as Lauaxeta, Lauro, Jesuitas, Botikazahar and the English School of Asturias

During the sessions held in Bilbaou, pir students learnt how motions are debated before their approval.in the European Parliament. They participated in different committees, each focused on current important  topics , and all actively contributed to discussions. Our students performed well, enganging actively in the debates.

Finally, one of the students Andere Royale ( 4 ESO) was selected to participate in the national sessions which will be held in July in Barcelona.

All the work done bybour students was excelent and their experience was very enriching. The EYP family welcomed new members from IES Elexalde High School.

After three years as part of the Erasmus+ Accreditation 2022-27, our Erasmus family has decided to give new life to our school's murals, transforming them into vibrant expressions of our experiences and values.

With creativity and enthusiasm, we have designed a mural dedicated to the mobilities carried out so far, capturing unforgettable moments from our travels. We have also renovated the volunteerism mural, reflecting the solidarity and impact of our students in various projects.

Our very own Guggenheim has been updated with photos of the visits Erasmus+ has made to Elexalde over the years, and with great pride, we have created the Accreditation Project mural, a symbol of our commitment to Erasmus+.

With great excitement, we welcomed students and teachers from Caserta and teachers from Romania with a special mural, located in the Main Hall of our school, Elexalde.

After three years as part of the Erasmus+ Accreditation 2022-27, our Erasmus family has decided to give new life to our school's murals, transforming them into vibrant expressions of our experiences and values.

With creativity and enthusiasm, we have designed a mural dedicated to the mobilities carried out so far, capturing unforgettable moments from our travels. We have also renovated the volunteerism mural, reflecting the solidarity and impact of our students in various projects.

Our very own Guggenheim has been updated with photos of the visits Erasmus+ has made to Elexalde over the years, and with great pride, we have created the Accreditation Project mural, a symbol of our commitment to Erasmus+.

With great excitement, we welcomed students and teachers from Caserta and teachers from Romania with a special mural, located in the Main Hall of our school, Elexalde.

Erasmus Mobility at Elexalde BHI (December 7th-14th)

Elexalde BHI organized an Erasmus mobility program with students and teachers from Caserta (Italy) and Iasi (Romania). This initiative fostered international collaboration and intercultural learning.

Two teachers from Iasi observed classes at Elexalde to study its methodologies and management system. They attended a history session where content was reviewed through a game, a literature class about Lorca, and a debate on euthanasia. Additionally, they participated in a Physical Education class and an upcycling workshop.

Students from Caserta and Elexalde spent several days together, sharing experiences and immersing themselves in Basque culture. Italian students stayed with Basque families, strengthening bonds. At the school, they were welcomed with a multilingual presentation, followed by a tour of the facilities. They also watched videos prepared by Elexalde students about Galdakao’s historical memory and explored Christmas traditions from both countries.

On the second and third days, they visited the Bizkaia Bridge and Bilbao, where they explored iconic landmarks and learned about their history and architecture. On the fourth day, Galdakao’s mayor warmly welcomed the participants. Later, the students created picture frames from recycled materials, using their favorite photo from the mobility experience.

On the final day, they toured Galdakao’s Iron Belt, where a history teacher explained the importance of learning from past events. To bid farewell, students' families prepared a traditional Basque meal.

The experience was unforgettable, building connections among students and teachers while promoting intercultural learning. 

Hello everyone,

You will spend these days in Elexalde (Galdakao) and when you look back you will remember this experience with joy.

First of all, I would like to thank the school Mattei from Caserta and the National College of Iasi Romania  for accompanying us during these five days that will be so enriching for all of us.

I would  also like to thank all the coordinators and all the teachers from Mattei, Iasi and Elexalde schools who work  hard in the distance and in presence in our Erasmus  project.  My colleagues who support me, the school board, the headmistress, the parents and last but not least, all of you  Erasmus family for your enthusiasm, hard work, effort and cooperation.

Last year in the mobility that took place in Elexalde we learned about the figure of Erasmus Rotterdam, who gives its name to our Erasmus program.

Erasmus of Rotterdam was remembered and recorded in history as "the first citizen of Europe", a lover of freedom and freethinking and a defender of the need to interact with other people to enrich thinking.

And that is why, Erasmus program gives us the opportunity to meet people from other countries in Europe, to learn different cultures from each other all together but at the same time to realize that we have a lot of things  in common which unite us.

But that is why this year I would like to tell you a very close story, about a student who last year traveled to Caserta and  who participates in Erasmus and whose story perfectly summarizes the spirit and essence of Erasmus and  I would like to share it with all of you.

When I first met Chiara, an incredible Italian girl, it was all through messages. We connected instantly, spending hours talking about our common interests. From music to films, our conversations flowed effortlessly, and it felt as we had known each other for years.

Finally, the day came when we met in person, and I can honestly say we clicked immediately. Despite both of having an excellent English level , we often found ourselves searching for the right words. Instead of relying on translators, we decided to speak in our own languages, which not only helped us learn new words but also deepened our bond. We created our own inside jokes that made us laugh, even when we were surrounded by others.

When I stayed at her house, I felt like a part of her family. Chiara and her mother treated me with such kindness and warmth that it made my heart swell. I remember the day I had to leave, and I couldn’t help crying; it was a bittersweet moment because I knew the memories we made would stay with me forever.

Fortunately, we never lost touch. In fact, during the holiday season, Chiara sent me a delightful package filled with typical treats from Italy.

Erasmus is an experience I will never forget. But I truly believe that this journey wouldn't have been half as wonderful without Chiara by my side.

So, as we kick off this new year of Erasmus with open hearts and minds, I encourage each of you to make bonds with your exchange student because it’s really worth it . Who knows? You might find a lifelong friend who will change your world, just like Chiara did for me.

After listening to this moving story we would like to hear many close stories like this again at the end of this  mobility.

Meeting new people, making new friends, being able to participate in workshops, discovering a totally different culture and rediscovering ourselves with abilities, skills and weaknesses that we may not have known about, are some of the things that you are going to experience these days.

For me, Erasmus mobility programs enrich students as people, creating bonds with the students who participate.

So I am glad that those who visit us, the students of  Mattei High School and the teachers of Iasi National School, will be with us this week, learning about Basque culture, participating in our upcycling workshops, meeting our families and living with them.

Finally, for all the students who are with us today, our Erasmus students ,the Italian students and the Romanian teachers.

Welcome to Elexalde and I hope you enjoy your stay.

Best of luck to everyone and remember once  Erasmus Erasmus for ever!!

Thank you very much

Eskerrik asko

Multumesc

Grazie  

Two Romanian teachers arrived at Elexalde High School for a joob shadowing experience. To honor their visit, two Erasmus students performed an aurresku, a traditional Basque dance. The Erasmus program coordinator gave a speech emphasizing cultural exchange and long-lasting friendships, followed by a multilingual welcome from a student in English, Spanish, Basque, Romanian, and Italian. Afterward, the visitors were given a school tour, showcasing various educational projects, and ended the day watching student-created videos on Galdakao’s memorial history.

The Romanian teachers attended various classes, including English, Physical Education, History, and Music, to learn about different teaching methodologies in the Basque education system. In History, they observed an innovative trivia-based exam review, while in Music, students performed both a Basque and Romanian song to highlight cultural identity throughmusic.

On the third day the teachers observed an International Literature class, where students presented lapbooks on renowned writers. They also learned about the Basque education system, comparing it to their own. Later, they attended a Spanish class on Lorca and an English-speaking debate on euthanasia, which showed argumentation skills and interdisciplinary learning.

In the last day the Romanian teachers, along with Erasmus students and Italian teachers from Caserta, were welcomed by Galdakao’s mayor at the Town Hall. The mayor and history teacher explained past and future student projects on Galdakao’s historical memory. Later, they participated in an Upcycling Workshop, organized by the technology department, where students created photo frames using recycled materials. The job shadowing experience concluded with an assessment session, marking the end of a rich week of cultural and educational exchange.

A group of volunteers from the Basque Country has launched a heartwarming initiative to bring joy and solidarity to children in the Valencian Community.The project, which started after a recent disaster( the Dana in Valencia) seeks to deliver not just material gifts but smiles and hope to those in need. The students of 2dbh of Elexalde High School have contact with them to contribute their grain of sand.

The volunteer team has already visited several towns in Valencia, including Paiporta on November 2nd and Algemesí, Catarroja, and Picanya on November 9th. Their next visit is planned for December 14th, where they pretend to introduce Olentzero, the traditional Basque Christmas character, to the Valencia community.

To make this possible, they are calling for donations of toys that will be collected in the Basque Country and delivered directly to children in Valencia. However, the project goes beyond simple gift-giving.

“We want to give more than just toys; we want to bring joy, hope, and solidarity,” say the organizers.

The initiative encourages families ( to whom they were sent a letter explaining all the project) and students to participate by donating clean and functional toys, complete with all their parts. Wrapped gifts are requested, with the possibility of adding a heartfelt message, drawing, or even a sweet treat inside. Books are also welcome, provided they are in good condition and written in Spanish.

The organizers emphasize the importance of fostering connections through these small gestures. Children are invited to include contact details to potentially receive a thank-you message from the recipient family.

The project specifically asks donors to avoid costumes, or clothing, focusing instead on toys and books that can make a meaningful impact.

This act of solidarity serves as a bridge between communities, teaching both Basque and Valencian children the values of generosity and empathy during Christmas.

For those interested in contributing, the volunteers express their heartfelt gratitude: “Thank you so much for your support and for making this project possible!”

This initiative is a beautiful example of how small acts of kindness can create lasting bonds and bring light to those facing difficult times. 

In December, 23 students from the English Speaking class, along with three teachers, were invited by Eurodeputy Pernando Barrena to visit Brussels and learn about the European Parliament and its workings. This trip was a fantastic opportunity for the students to not only experience the culture of Brussels but also deepen their understanding of European politics and the role of the European Parliament.

The students themselves played a crucial role in organizing the trip, using their English Speaking class to research information about Brussels, its culture, and specifically their Member of the European Parliament, Pernando Barrena. They also prepared thoughtful questions to ask him during their visit.

The trip lasted from Monday to Thursday, and during those days, the group visited a number of iconic sites around Brussels. On the first day, they explored the city's vibrant Christmas markets, indulged in delicious Belgian waffles, and enjoyed the festive atmosphere, with the beautiful lighting and music surrounding the Grand Place.

The following day, the group embarked on a cultural tour of Brussels. They visited several important landmarks, including the Grand Place, Manneken Pis, Atomium, and the St. Michel and St. Gudula Cathedral. This gave the students a deeper appreciation for the city's rich history and culture.

On the third day, the highlight of the trip arrived— a visit to the European Parliament. The students learned about the Parliament’s headquarters, its history, and its pivotal role in European politics. They gained insight into the work of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), the distribution of seats, and how MEPs address the challenges faced by Europe today. They were particularly impressed by the Parlamentarium, an interactive museum that allowed them to explore the history and workings of the European Parliament. Through multimedia screens, they discovered the influence the Parliament has on European citizens' daily lives and took a journey through key historical events that shaped the world.

The students then had the privilege of meeting Pernando Barrena, who explained the complexities of European politics and the importance of cooperation across political parties to defend Basque interests. He also discussed the rise of the extreme right, the importance of environmental issues, and the low European participation among citizens who often feel disconnected from the European Union. He also took the time to explain how the European Parliament functions and the critical role of the European Commission, led by Ursula von der Leyen, in ensuring that legislative proposals are debated.

The students had the opportunity to ask Pernando Barrena a series of prepared questions, which he answered thoughtfully, making the meeting a truly engaging and enlightening experience for everyone involved.

This exceptional trip was not only a unique learning experience but also an educational journey that will stay with the students for years to come. It provided them with valuable insights into European politics, culture, and the role of the European Parliament. The visit will contribute to their understanding of the importance of being active citizens within the European Union.

We are incredibly grateful for the invitation to the European Parliament, and we are confident that this experience will significantly contribute to our students' personal and academic growth, preparing them to be informed and engaged citizens in the future. 

As part of the Hedatze program, Erasmus students at Elexalde High School in Galdakao are actively working on preserving and promoting the town's historical memory. Their efforts focus on understanding and sharing Galdakao's rich history while engaging in meaningful and creative activities.

The students also are learning that

What happened in the past in Galdakao serves as a lesson for the present and the future, ensuring that such events are not repeated.

In addition to their historical research, the students are redecorating the school's walls with inspiring artwork and messages related to the project. This initiative aims to spread awareness of the importance of Erasmus project and encourage other students to participate in it becoming embassadors of the project.

During this week the two teachers knew Estonian educational system and above all Viimsi school . They  were guided by two Estonian students through the school and also explained to them the school  values, school paths, organisation and  maturity exam.  This job shadowing was very fruitful as we talk about a different educational approach. Students are prepared to become competent in the real world.  We think that we could learn many things from this school. 

During this week the two teachers carried out several activities; they observed the working of the school, attending different Latin, Computing, History and French  lessons. They also participated in a round table about the Romanian system od education versus the Basque one . At the samke time some students from the National College of Iasi presented them different proyects on active citizenship, volunteering. An ispector of the area who had three hours of class there informed them about the Romanian national exam´s results.

Finally, They were interviewed for Iasi television and for the school magazine. The host teacher Ms Tuscanasu guided them through Romanian and Iasi fhistorical memory.

It was an enriching and  fruitful experience, which meant a lot of new ideas to implement in Elexalde school.

In December two teachers from the National Collegue of Iasi will also participate of a job shadowing in Elexalde high school.

On May 16th May 2024 Sunday marks 87 years since the bombing that had the worst consequences in Galdakao. During the Civil war Galdakao suffered at leat 28 bombings, and on May 19th, 1937 16 citizens were killed when they were hit by a bomb dropped at the entrance of Plazakoetxe shelter by planes under Franco´s  orders. That is why May 19th is an important day for the people from Galdakao , and the City Council organized, as usual. a commemorative event for the anniversary

Some students from Erasmus + and some eco delegates  are preparing a solidarity market, with two objectives. The first one is to recycle and reuse things that we don't use, and the second is to earn money for associations and help people.

Elexalde, Andra Mari, Bengoetxe and Eguzkibegi high schools (those schools are the ones that are located in our city Galdacano) will take care of the different stands of the market, Elexalde is going to ask permission from the city hall and ask for objects to elaborate the market, like chairs, tables…

From 15th April to 3rd  May eco-delegates will collect different objects (clothes, accessories,perfumes, books, video games, toys…) and things that students will bring to the high school.Then, some eco-delegates will classify the collected objects in different sections to know if they are  useful and can be used. 

On 17th May during school hours some teachers and eco delegates will go to the city hall square and will prepare all the stands with the second hand objects so locals can buy them.

When the market finishes, we will collect all the money and we will donate it to the solidarity refrigerator.

The solidarity refrigerator started in Galdacano, on 29th  April 2015 and is used to save food, and give it to people who need it.

After Galdacano city hall tested for a month, they realized that the Solidarity Refrigerator was achieving the goals set, and they saved about 300 kg of food that would otherwise have ended up in a landfill every month.

Actually, the solidarity refrigerator is growing up. There are more than 20 refrigerators in different points of the country: Euskadi, Toledo, Valencia, Zaragoza, Galicia, Barcelona, Madrid… . Other countries, like Mexico, Chile and Argentina are interested in collaborating with this association.

Therefore, our collaboration in the solidarity refrigerator will be a good opportunity for us to share it with the locals who will need it. And the solidarity market will provide us the opportunity to help people that don’t have much money

The students who participated in the Caserta Mobility had 

Hello everyone. Today we are here with Lander Goiri. Lander is a Maths teacher in Elexalde high school. He has gained a lot of popularity among students and teachers because he usually comes to the high school by bike. Hello, Lander.

Hello, good morning.

Before getting into the bicycle related topics, we would like to ask you some questions about your job. For example, what made you think that studying science was the best option?

Well , basically… I didn’t like letters, I used to hate studying stumps of information and I had an advantage in sciences, so I just kept studying that. And I studied engineering. Why? I actually don’t know. That day and age you had to study something and get a degree by choosing it almost blindfolded, without knowing anything about it. Later I managed well in the subject, and that was the main reason for me to go on studying science.

Did you enjoy the studying process during both your high school and university years, although sometimes science can be hard to study?

Yeah, well… that’s what studies are, aren’t they? Either letters or science, any of both are really hard and challenging. People often say that “students live so well”, how well they live, do they? Sure, a student who doesn’t study might live easily, but a student who studies hard has to go through a tough life filled with exams and projects… I believe that studies are very hard. I had many good times with my colleagues but I had to go through moments of loneliness just studying, although it’s worth it.

It is well known by all of us that it takes a lot of time and effort to come by bike to Elexalde. How do you organize and mentalize yourself for this daily challenge?

Actually, it just takes me 5-10… 5 minutes more to come here by bike than by car, in fact, traffic jams are really often created and a lot of time is wasted even if coming by car is more comfortable. When I come by bike I don’t have that kind of problem. And I come pleasantly every morning this way, although when it is Winter it is harder for me to do so.

At the same time, students wonder what’s the main reason behind this way of acting. Is it for environmental purposes, health purposes, sports purposes… or any other?

Well, on the one hand, I’d rather come to my workplace or to anywhere else by bike because not only I love it, but it clears my head too. When you move by bike you are able to take in air, which I like a lot. On the other hand, whenever the weather is good enough for me to take my bike, I don’t pollute. I have taken that into account too. In addition, I am able to save a little money. I’d say those are the main reasons.

Cycling could sometimes be a hard hobby since it is a very demanding sport. Have you always liked it? Or did you start to develop a liking for this sport at an older age?

I have always used the bike, since I was bought one when I was younger. Some times more, others less, but I always try to go everywhere (even Bilbo) by bike.

Taking the bike almost everyday must have had a great impact on your body and health. Do you feel better or more active now that you are doing sport more often?

Well, now the cyclical doesn’t ask me for such a big effort, since I had installed an electric motor in it so I wouldn’t sweat when going up towards the high school. But it’s no lie that it helps a lot in clearing one’s mind. The trip clears my mind and by the time I reach the high school I am more relaxed.

To end our final doubts about sport and health: do you do any other activity apart from cycling?

I have always practiced some kind of sport. I have been climbing for a long time and I try to go some weekends to practice more; and I started boxing last year and during the week I try to go two days at least to the gym to do some sport. But it’s enough with that for me, I don’t want to reach competitive levels.

Thanks for that now, if you don't mind, shall we start with the environment related questions?

Sure, go ahead.

Either directly or indirectly you find yourself surrounded by the environmental world, and even contributing to its causes. Was there a certain problem that concerned you the most and pushed you to make this decision?

Well, last years in general and this last summer have been really hot, which really concerns me, mainly because of the quick pace these climate and temperature changes are starting to develop. Plastic has a big impact on this and the oceans are filled with plastic too. That’s why I am worried about the environment and the situation we are in. I do whatever I can whenever it is possible to. Even if it is a little, a lot of littles make a greater good.

All of us are aware of the recent problems we are facing, such as global warming. Now, after you have experienced one of the hottest summers ever recorded in the Basque Country, would you say you are worried about the situation?

Yeah well, I think I have answered something similar before, maybe I haven’t fully understood the question before but yes, I am really concerned about the situation and a lot of people are too. Actually, it is cause for concern. Mainly, we have to take into account the world we want to leave you young people, because we already have lived our years but we have to be careful with the planet we are leaving to the youngsters: filled with plastic and damaged.

People say extreme situations need extreme answers, but we may have taken this statement too far. During the last years more and more footage has appeared of public groups such as Greenpeace and Just Stop Oil which try to spread their ideas by boycotting events and sometimes doing vandalism. Do you believe this is the best way to do so? And what’s your opinion about this kind of activity?

Well, about Greenpeace and the actions they do, I think they are fine, violent sometimes as they are but it’s also important to make and echo. Apart from that, I think the most important thing is to work on awareness, especially in today's young people, to raise consciousness and to see if the older ones also become aware, since a lot of the think things like “for the time I have left in this world, why bother…” and they really don’t care about the planet they are leaving the youngsters

Related to the question before, what would you do to achieve the same goal?

What would I do? See, I’d especially work on awareness. Us teachers could take this challenge: not just teaching, but raising awareness among young people. Let the young people go home and think about the situation and the future and make their parents aware. And I’d do some more little actions too, such as recollecting bottle caps, recollecting plastic, recycling… and to try not to be consumists, although it is very hard in the society we live on.

Is there any suggestion you would like to make for the high school to improve at?

I’d promote the actions which are being done in the Agenda 30, as they are really important and have a great impact on our awareness, although later each person will do whatever they want.

Well, this has been all. Thank you for having us, Lander. You have been very helpful and we appreciate what you have done for us. It’s been a pleasure to be with you.

Thank you guys, really.

We explained the project to the major of Galdakao as well as we informed him about our mobility planning for those days,

The mayor talked about our Basque identity as a unique but different from other cultures, not woese or better. He also explained to all of us the importance of our language . 

A Polish student also asked the mayor some questions about how Galdakao town recycled and the steps the town was doing in order to be a sustainable town. 

Welcome to our "Green Tour"! Our first stop is this area, where you will see five different bins specifically designated for recycling. The yellow bin is for plastic, the blue one for paper, the green one for glass, (glass can be recycled without losing its quality, making it an environmentally-friendly material).

The  orange for oil, and the gray bin is for all other waste that cannot be recycled. So it goes to the garbage dump, they put all the rubbish in a valley, between two mountains and once is full they cover the hole with land; but when that is done, they have to find another place for that rubbish so that’s why we have to try to put as little rubbish as we can to this rubbish bin and It's very important to use these bins correctly.

Next, we will visit the Txoko Berdea, or "Green Spot". Here, you will find different surveys conducted by students. Additionally, various rubbish bins for items such as bottle caps, dead batteries, empty pens, and collected papers are recycled by classes every month. This exemplifies the importance of recycling various materials, even those that are not commonly recycled. This promotes a more comprehensive approach to recycling and waste management.

The students also organize occasional schoolyard cleanups to remove plastic waste;The schoolyard cleanups organized by students, serve as practical actions to address the issue of plastic waste. Removing plastic waste from the environment helps protect ecosystems while raising awareness about the impact of single-use plastics.

Moving on, we arrive at the Umore Berdea, or "Green Humor" area, where the best ironic jokes related to the environment are showcased. This area adds a fun element to environmental awareness. Humor can be a powerful tool in encouraging people to think critically about environmental issues and their own actions.

Lastly, we will visit Stop Plastiko, which is a place where we put different campaigns. This campaign for example it’s about reducing plastic and was made here two years ago. The Stop Plastiko campaign highlights the importance of reducing plastic consumption because plastic pollution is a significant issue, and campaigns like this serve as reminders to make choices that contribute to reducing plastic waste.

Now, let's reflect on what we have learned today. Every small effort, such as using the correct recycling bins, participating in surveys and cleanups, and promoting awareness through humor, contributes to preserving our planet for future generations. Remember, together we can make a difference and create a better future. 

Thank you for listening and I hope you feel inspired to take action towards a greener world.

Good morning everyone!

It is for us a really great pleasure and a huge joy to welcome our Erasmus+ partners from Tesla Schule Berlin,Szkoła Podstawowa  Warsaw  and Mattei instituto Caserna Italy to our Elexalde high school.

As you can see we are all together in this breathtaking landscape  surrounded by some Basque mountains Upo, Gorbea, Oiz protected by our Andra Mari church.

First of all, I would like to thank all the coordinators and all the teachers from all the schools who have been working hard in the distance and in presence in our project.  My colleagues who support me, the school board, the headmistress, the parents and last but not least, all of you for your enthusiasm, hard work, effort and cooperation.

At the beginning of the school year a student asked me where the word "Erasmus" really comes from. The word "Erasmus" has its origin in a proper name: Desiderius Erasmus Rotterodamus, better known as Erasmus of Rotterdam.

Erasmus of Rotterdam was one of the most important humanists and theologists of the Renaissance and went down in history as one of the first "travelers of knowledge."

Erasmus of Rotterdam was remembered and recorded in history as "the first citizen of Europe", a lover of freedom and freethinking and a defender of the need to interact with other people to enrich thinking.

In this way, "erasmus" word recreates the philosophy of a restless man who fought until the end of his days to create ties of friendship and knowledge between people from other countries and promote a continent free of borders.

That is precisely what all of us have learned in our Erasmus, to open our schools to Europe, to be active European citizens willing to recycle and take care of the environment, to respect different cultures and identities. To be aware of what is different about each of us but also everything we have in common because difference is essential. We have improved our level of English and used it to communicate among us, we have gained personal autonomy, worked as a team and shared different points of view with students from different schools  in Europe.

We have also discovered that although we  come from different countries and speak different languages, our hearts beat as one.

We have built future bridges of brotherhood and peace.

As you know, the Elexalde highschool carried out an Erasmus project with a Greek school in Katerini Greece and at the end of the project we asked the parents, teachers and students who participated in it three words to define their participation in the project and these were some of their words :

friendship, discovery, happiness, creativity, illusion, enthusiasm, eagerness, hospitality, unique, hard work, unforgetful, sharing, interesting, funny, teamwork, enriching and welcoming.

That is what after your mobility in the Basque country, we would like you to be able to keep at least some of these words in your mind and take them with you when coming back to your countries.

When I meet my students from the first Erasmus project who are now at university, I feel very excited, happy and proud when they tell me that they continue to have contact with the Greek students they met and lived with them for a week. Even some of them have seen each other again.

So I hope that all of you can also continue to have contact, and see each other again here in the Basque Country or in another country in Europe.

To finish, I wish you an amazing , pleasant and unique mobility in the Basque Country ,have fun, learn as much as possible, make really good friends and remember

" Once Erasmus, Erasmus forever"

Thank you to all of you for being with us  these unforgetful days and sharing your experience.

Ongi etorri Ekexalde ikastetxera

Welcome to Elexalde school

Bienvenidos a Elexalde

Willkommen bei Elexalde

Benvenuti a Elexalde

Witamy w Elexalde

An aurresku is a Basque dance, solemn and elegant, that is performing as a way of honouring imortant people. We danced honouring our partners.

A volunteer from Italy through Bizkaia had the opportunity to know  how the programme Solidarity European Corps works and they were also given explanaitions of how to apply to it in case they were interested before getting to university or in any moment of their lives ( between 18-30) . They showed them where they could find different projects or any kind of imformation related to it.

Students were really interested and some of them shared emails with the Italian volunteer to keep in contact . 

the s

This initiative aims at raising awareness among Elexalde students about the importance of incorporating healthy eating habits into their lives.

The responsible of the canteen in our school in the breaks twice or even more brings a box of apples  opr any seasonal fruit so that our students can pick up one . 

The Na tional Selection Conference had a duration of 6 days where delegates debated and proposed solutions to actual problems concerning the European Union.  

Two days of committee´s work and two days of General assembly, which took place in the Congress Palace of Marbella.

Our student and the rest of students from different regions of Spain worked a lot during those days. but the best of all was making lifelong friendships and enjoying this unique opportunity that helped all of them acquire crucial skills for the future. 

Our student also gathered with youngers from all over Europe and from various nationalities: people from Germany, Britain, Hungray. Some of them were already in collage studying careers like law, politics... so that made the level be really high.

Delegates selected by the jury in the National Selection Conference will have the opportunity to represent our nation committee in International Session.

In our project projecto 2022-1-ESO1-K121-SCH-000059444

four schools from Europe a Polish, Germand and Serbian school collaborated together to carry out two students mobilities and a job shadowing  as well as a wage range of activities , which are shared on the project website and on the Erasmus platform of results within a multilingual environment. Elexalde students came into contact with different cultures in a playful way and develop their intercultural awareness.

They also learnt to be active citizens, and acquired sustainability habits.

Teachers of Elexalde also improved their teaching methodologies and their experience in  the polish school in Warsaw has started to be putting it into practise in their professional daily life.

It was a unique experience for both teachers and students,  

During our staying in Szkola Podstawowa nr 365 in Warsaw, the teachers in charge of carrying out the Job Shadowing had the opportunity to observe the work dynamics of the individual classes of various subjects, Mathematics, English, Chemistry, Physical education. We also saw a performance of a sketch about the history of democracy and  the celebration of an important day for the school such as Children's Day.

We carried out interviews with members of the teaching Staff in order to find out relevant aspects regarding the curriculum of the subjects, the characteristics of their educational system, their study plans and the working of the school.

We were warmly welcome by the coordinator of the project Renata Kaprika who was our host during our staying in Warsaw.

Szkola Podstawowa is a primary school of about 400 students and it gives classes to students from 6 to 14 years old.

It is important for us to underline that  although we are talking about a primary school and our school is a secondary school,

We  learnt about class management.

Apart from attending  lessons which correspond to our 1, 2 and 3 dbh, we also attended lessons which were aimed at young children because as we have mentioned before the school is a primary school and have students from 7 to 14.

The job shadowing was an enriching  experience for us, as they worked their subjects using projects,  and this was one of the topics we were interested in and asked the Polish school to organise before going there. We could observe working in teams using different strategies to organise them, taking decisions and creative original projects in different subjects, active learning. 

The reason of it is because we tried to raise awareness among students of the first year of secondary school about the importance of breakfast, taking into account that it provides students with the necessary energy to start the day and will also nourish our body after many hours without eating.

The benefits of a good breakfast for students: stimulates concentration and improves performance. The secondary school students should learn how a healthy breakfast should be and the reasons of it. With this question we aimed  at promoting appropriate habits.

It is known that the lack of breakfast or not eating it properly influences the physical state of our students. They are more tired and depressed.

Psychologically , they are more irritated, and they also have a greater lack of concentration and a bad mood.

Regarding the medical problems that may arise, there are low blood sugar and dizziness….

The capacity for expression, memory, creativity and problem solving are particularly affected by the lack of breakfast.

Therefore,  all this has an impact on the academic results of the students.

As we can see on the table

Students had to answer to that question ion, according to it ,

1. Well, fruit, dairy products and cereals.

2. Improve: only two

Fruit and dairy productd

Fruit and cereals

Daily products and cereals

3. Poor only  one ( only fruit, only daily products and only cereals)

4. Bad he/ she doesn't have breakfast

mutilak= boys

neskak,= girls

Nahastea Mixture

Orokorra In general

83% has breakfast every day 78% are girls and 88% boys. Considering the ones who have breakfast 9% 

Our students arrived on Sunday and they met their Polish families with whom they lived for seven days, learning about Polish culture.

On the second day all the students from Warsaw, Berlin and Serbia broke the ice and socialized with sport activities, then they were guided by Polish students around school and surroundings.

They all together celebrated Erasmus Day and tasted typical food from different countries. There was an exhibition of lapbooks about different types of democracy prepared by Polish students.

On the third day, they had a democracy guide tour around Warsaw in which they visited

places connected with the history of Polish democracy ( The Royal Castle, The Old Town, Łazienki Królewskie – park).

On the fourth day , they met a representative of local council and discussed about local democracy and Polish citizens’ projects.

They also participated of a presentation of a real-life citizens’ project already created by the Polish student who is a member of the Youth Local Council.

There were workshops in which our international teams created projects alike the one presented. There was a  planning of  activities: building teams, choosing the subjects of the projects and ways of presenting them to the public.

Students also did a trip to Copernicus Science Centre to get ideas for their project.

On the fifth day , students had workshops in Wednesday-prepared teams. Each team produced a product - a model with the usage of waste materials like cardboard, plastic bottles, cloth, etc. They also prepared a computer presentation and a poster for Friday presentation.

Then they had a trip to Wilanow Palace and cooking workshops with lunch.

On the sixth day, all students celebrated Democracy Day: there were presentation of sketches portraying the history of European democracy prepared by Polish students.

There was a manifesto of students against breaking democracy.

The students' projects were displayed and voted the first project.

The mobility ended with a closing event: bowling and shuffleboard.

The last day was saying goodbye to the Polish families and a see you in the Basque Country. 

The schools and students selected at the Regional Session of the EYPE held in Bilbao to take part in the 18th National Session of EYP Spain in Marbella are:

The English School of Asturias

-Carlota Fernandez Escudero

-Jaime Fernandez-Trabadelo

-Carlota Piney

Individual delegates

-Ainhoa Rey (SanJoséJesuitak Ikastetxea)

-Izaro Rioja (Lauaxeta Ikastola)

-Laura Saiz (IES Botikazar BHI)

-Olatz Villamayor (IES Elexalde BHI) 

The Jury has taken into account several aspects to select the schools and the students which are going to participate in Marbella 2023– The 18th National Selection Conference of EYP España.

1.Motivation and Participation

2.Evolution and Personal Development

3.Open mindedness and Cooperation

4.Delegates representing EYP España in sessions abroad, or the RSC at the National Selection Conference, require a good level of English that allows them to express themselves correctly and fluently.

5.The Jury must evaluate the delegatesʼ understanding of current political and social structures of their environment.

6.  Knowledge about European institutions, history, competences and activity is highly valued. Delegates are meant to have conveyed research prior to the session and have informed themselves on their topic, toward the well-functioning of Committee Work. 

The European Youth Parliament ( EYP) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to address the needs of young people in Europe. EYP facilitates the acquisition of social and political skills that are crucial to their futures and encorages young people to think critically and independently. It is now one of the largest platforms in Europe for political debate, international meetings, education, and young people´s ideas exchange.

Our students met in Bilbao  Konekta- La Perrera and BBK Kuna for the Teambuilding, Comitte Work and General Assembly.

The schools which participated were :

Lauaxeta ikastola, Lauro ikastola, San Jose Jesuitak Durango, Uribarri BHI,  Botikazahar BHI, the English School of Asturias,  Ayalde ikastetxea and Elexalde BHI.

During the first day, students broke the ice and got to know each other , playing different types of games.

On the second day,  students were divided between different committees. These committees had a subject on the agenda and they had to agree on a resolution that they would present later in the general assembly .

The subjects our students had were:

Women´s rights And Gender Equality

Industry  , Research and Energy

Envirotment, Pubic Health and Food Safety.

International Market and Consumer Protection.

Culture And Education.

Envirotment, Public Health And Food Safety 

The last day the  General Assebly took place. There were seven different debates . All finished with the Closing Ceremony.

Resolution booklet 

drive.google.com/drive/u/0/my-drive 

Today one of our Erasnus students' mother who worked as volunteer came to explain to us what the programme European Solidarity Corps meant. It  is an EU funding programme for young people to encorage them to work in  solidary activities as well as contributing to health and envirotmental action in the EU.

It is a good opportunity for young people from 18 to 30 years old to help vulnerable people and help build a more inclusive society.  It is an experience which ispires and empowers young people to learn and develop themselves personally.

Participants can volunteer abroad or in their own country  in areas which cover social inclusion, envirotment and culture.

Volunteering can be individual or teams who volunteer for a period of time. 

As the programme is more focused on bachiller students, the coordinator of the project explained to the students of bachiller.