We are thrilled to announce another international success for our teaching staff! Two teachers from our school recently participated in the prestigious training course „Mindfulness for teachers: A hands-on approach”, which took place in the capital of Ireland – Dublin. Their participation in this intensive trip served as a methodology course, as it equipped our teachers with a concrete toolkit, specific techniques, and ready-made lesson plans (methodology) designed to integrate mindfulness practices and mental well-being into the daily curriculum.
The primary goal of the course was not only to explore the topic theoretically but, above all, to build solid foundations for the participants’ own daily mindfulness practice. This personal experience forms the crucial baseline for later successfully introducing elements of mindfulness into classrooms. Our representatives learned, among other things, how to lead seated meditation and embodiment practices. To gain as much as possible from the course, they kept a regular journal of their experiences, which will allow them to continue their practice and retain valuable insights long after returning home.
During the workshops, special attention was paid to the history and scientific evidence behind mindfulness. The teachers analyzed how these techniques affect the human brain and the benefits they bring to both educators and students alike. The course provided a rich „toolbox” of ready-to-use exercises, with particular emphasis on focused attention practices, mindful listening, effective communication, and building peer relationships (interconnection practices). Mastering the appropriate language to use in the classroom when introducing the concept of mindfulness to students who have never encountered it before was also an essential element.
An incredibly valuable aspect of the training was its strong focus on inclusivity. Participants learned how to flexibly adapt individual exercises to different age groups as well as the unique educational and emotional needs of children. The program also included so-called „heartfulness” practices, which develop empathy and kindness. Furthermore, the course became an excellent platform for exchanging experiences and examples of good practice in a multicultural context, thanks to collaboration with teachers from all over Europe.
The trip to Ireland was also a wonderful opportunity for integration and discovering the charms of the local culture. The very first day of the stay kicked off with a fantastic highlight – a food festival, during which participants from various countries prepared traditional delicacies. Our teachers spent their free time after the intensive workshops exploring the historic streets of Dublin, sightseeing, and taking part in organized cultural activities. The trip concluded with an official summary of the acquired competencies and the awarding of Certificates of Attendance.
We are fully convinced that the methodological knowledge gained will directly translate into raising the quality of our school’s work in supporting students’ mental health, classroom management, reducing daily stress, and strengthening self-control and concentration during learning. The implementation of these innovative methods is a direct goal of our Erasmus Plan and marks the next step in developing a safe, supportive educational environment in our school.
