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.