Caserta Mobility May 2025

After almost three hours flying from Bilbao to Naples, eight students from Erasmus  and two teachers( the History teacher Eunate Barroeta and the coordinator of Erasmus and English teacher Gemma Gutiérrez)  arrived in Caserta. There, the Italian host families were already waiting , ready to welcome the students into their homes.

The students were excited but also a bit nervous, as this was a new experience for many of them. Meeting their host families and starting a week in a different country felt like the beginning of a big adventure.

The students spent Saturday afternoon enjoying quality time with their host families. They took the opportunity to explore the local area, share meals, and experience daily life in a welcoming and friendly environment. It was a valuable chance for them to connect personally and immerse themselves in the culture.

While the students settled in, the two teachers had the chance to start exploring Caserta. With its elegant streets and impressive Royal Palace, the city made a great first impression. It was clear from the beginning that this Erasmus+ exchange would be an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

The students spent a lovely day with their host families, enjoying a wide range of activities that allowed them to experience local life and traditions in a personal and meaningful way. From exploring the surroundings and sharing meals students had the chance to bond with their hosts and create lasting memories. One of our students was even invited to attend a First ComunionCelebration.  It was a day filled with warmth, connection, and cultural enrichment.

While the students enjoyed their time with the host families, the two accompanying teachers had the chance to explore the stunning Amalfi Coast, visiting picturesque towns such as Salerno, Cetara, Maiori, Amalfi, and Positano. This coastline, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, charming villages, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Each town offered its own unique atmosphere.. The visit was not only a feast for the senses but also a cultural journey through one of Italy’s most iconic and inspiring regions.

As part of the mobility, students enjoyed a full day with their host families, taking part in several  activities. Some visited places like Naples, which was particularly lively and festive as the local football team had just won the Italian league. Others chose to spend a quieter day at home, sharing everyday moments with their host families and experiencing Italian daily life from the inside.

 On Sunday, students had the opportunity to spend the whole day with their host families, partcpatng in a variety of activities that reflected everyday Italian life. Some went to visit Italuan places, while others enjoyed a peaceful day at home, sharing meals, conversations, and traditions. This time together helped strengthen the connection between students and their hosts, offering an authentic cultural exchange. It also allowed students to practise their English in real contexts and learnt about   daily life in Italy.

 We arrived at  Mattei High School  and were warmly welcomed by the teaching staff. The headmaster gave a welcome speech, highlighting the importance of building connections among the students from the three schools which participated in the mobility, the Polish, Italian and Basque school.                  

Afterwards, we watched a video about Italy and headed to Sorrento for our first visit to this city on the Amalfi Coast..

  We headed to Sorrento, where we visited some of the city's most important buildings . We strolled through the historic centre, with its narrow, lively streets, and reached Piazza Tasso, the heart of Sorrento. We also explored  Marina Grande, known for its colourful houses and seaside restaurants. We stopped by the fishing port where some students swam. Thestudents enjoyed every part of this city because of its             beauty  and its coastal atmosphere 

 The students also had some free time to enjoy the city of Sorrento.  Some took the opportunity to walk  through its charming streets, explore its  shops, and try local specialties such as limoncello  ice cream or traditional sweets. Others decided to do some souvenir shopping or relax while admiring the sea views. It was a calm and special moment that allowed them to experience the city by themselves.

 Our day in Sorrento was  special. After the  warm welcome  at the Mattei Institute, we travelled to this beautiful coastal city and visited its most important places of it.

The students were impressed by tmthe city, the  sea views, and the relaxed atmosphere. Many described Sorrento as “peaceful,” and “a place full of beauty.” They especially enjoyed the chance to explore on their own, buy souvenirs, and experience Italian culture firsthand.

It was a day filled with positive emotions, connection, and unforgettable memories.

 We met at the school and, after watching a video about Pompeii and the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, which helped us understand what had happened more clearly,  we set off to visit the volcano. During the visit, a guide explained in detail all the features of Mount Vesuvius: its history, its structure, the different eruptions it has had over time, and how it affects the surrounding region.

  The excursion to Mount Vesuvius was very interesting. The guide gave us a lot of information about the volcano: its formation, its history, the most important eruptions, and how it affects the nearby cities. It was a very pleasant walk as we climbed the path to the crater. Along the way, we enjoyed breathtaking views: from the top of Vesuvius you can see the Bay of Naples, the city of Naples, Pompeii, Herculaneum, Sorrento which we had visited the day before  and,  the islands of Capri and Ischia. The experience was unforgettable.

 After visiting Mount Vesuvius, we went to Pompeii. The visit was very interesting because we learned a lot about what life was like in a Roman city before the eruption in 79 AD. We were able to see houses, temples, theatres, streets, mosaics, and everyday objects that were preserved by the volcanic ash. It was amazing to see how an entire city was frozen in time. The visit helped us understand history and the way people lived in that period much better 

   It was a day full of discoveries. Climbing Mount Vesuvius gave us fantastic  views and a better understanding of the power of     nature. The guide explained in detail how the volcano was formed and how it impacted history. Later, walking through the ruins of Pompeii was overwhelming. We could really imagine what life was like before the eruption. Without a doubt, it was an enriching experience that made us reflect on the passage of time and the force of nature.

 Before our visit to the Royal Palace of Caserta, the host teachers from the Istituto Mattei  gave us a  tour of their school. They  introducedus  us to the various departments and explained in detail the different modules and subjects they teach.  We even saw some students preparing the fashion week It was a great opportunity to better understand their educational approach and the diverse academic paths offered to their students.

    The students began exploring the topic of what it means to be responsible digital citizens. As an initial step, they complete a series of interactive quizzes and assessments designed to raise awareness about the key aspects of responsible digital citizenship within the European context. These activities encourage them to reflect on issues such as online safety, digital rights and responsibilities, respectful communication, and the ethical use of technology. Through this process, they started to develop an  understanding of their role as active and informed members of the digital society.

 After completing the scheduled activities at the school, all participant including the Italian, Polish, and our own students, along with their teachers visited the magnificent Royal Palace of Caserta. Known as the "Versailles of Italy," this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the largest royal residences in the world. Designed in the 18th century by architect Luigi Vanvitelli, the palace is renowned for its grand architecture,  and stunning baroque gardens. During the visit, students and teachers  were caught by the elegance of the royal apartments, the marble staircases, and the enormous  gardens with their fountains, sculptures, and cascades. It was not only an enriching cultural experience, but also a valuable opportunity to reflect on European heritage and  history. 

   While the students spent their free time with their host families, the accompanying teachers had the opportunity to visit the  city of Naples. The city was full of life and it was still decorated with the blue jerseys and banners celebrating Napoli’s recent victory in the Scudetto, a moment of great pride for the locals

During their visit, the teachers explored some of Naples' most important buildings They admired  Naples Cathedral (Duomo di San Gennaro), a masterpiece of Gothicstyle  ,Spaccanapoli street, Piazza del Plebiscito, the Royal Palace of Naples, and the Castel Nuovo (also known as Maschio Angioino). as well as Galleria Umberto I . The visit offered a rich insight into the city's unique blend of history, culture, and modern vibrancy.

Italian, Polish, and Basque students gathered together at the school for a collaborative workshop. Working in multicultural groups, the students first learned what a logo is and how to design one effectively. Guided by teachers, they explored the key elements that make a logo meaningful and memorable.

After this introduction, each group created a logo inspired by the lessons they had received on how to be a responsible European digital citizen. The activity encouraged creativity, teamwork, and reflection on the values of digital responsibility.

   The farewell celebration took place at the school and brought together students, teachers, and staff . One of the highlights of the evening was the delicious buffet prepared by the Italian host families. They brought a variety of traditional Italian dishes, showcasing the richness and diversity of their culinary heritage. From homemade lasaigna, pizza, and typical  regional desserts,.

Tthe food reflected the warm welcome Italian families gave to our students. 

The students had the opportunity to print the winning logo, representing responsible digital citizenship, onto caps. Afterwards, we all gathered for a group photo wearing the caps, a symbolic  way to celebrate the shared values of the project.

Later, the students watched the final rehearsals for the fashion show that would take place that evening. It was a lively and creative moment, filled with anticipation and excitement.

Finally, everyone said their goodbyes to the Polish students and teachers, who were leaving that day in the afternoon. It was an emotional farewell, marking the end of a enriching week together.

   While our students were taking part in their final activities together, the two accompanying teachers took a walk through the bay of Naples. One last stroll to say goodbye to an enriching and fruitful  experience. Surrounded by the city's vibrant life, history, and beauty, it was a reflective and meaningful moment that brought closure to an unforgettable week of learning, connection, and cultural exchange 

As the end  of this enriching mobility experience arrived,   Mattei High School organized a spectacular fashion show themed around Vietnam. The outfits were entirely designed and crafted by the school’s own students, who also took to the runway as models, showcasing their creativity, dedication, and talent.

The event was a celebration of culture, art, and youth expression. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and pride as each look was revealed. To everyone’s delight, the show concluded with an impressive fireworks display. It ws an unforgettable ending to a special week

If we had to describe it in just one word: Bravissimi!

   The time finally came to say goodbye to all the wonderful Italian host families who had so warmly welcomed our students into their homes. It was a  moment filled with gratitude and emotion for all their    generosity,and care shown throughout the week

These families did not just offer a place to stay, they als opened their hearts, shared their culture, and created unforgettable memories for each of our students.

From the bottom of our hearts: Grazie mille! Your hospitality and warmth will always be remembered.