The third mobility of the project “A Happy Life in a Healthy Environment,” coordinated by “Mihai Eminescu” Secondary School in Vaslui, took place in Croatia, on the island of Brač, between September 23–27, 2024. The host was the Elementary School “Vladimir Nazor” in the town of Postira. Participants from the four partner schools from Romania, Turkey, Poland, and Croatia enjoyed a week full of educational and recreational activities aimed at developing both personal skills and ecological awareness.
The first day began with the presentation of the participating schools, followed by an artistic program performed by students from the host school, “Vladimir Nazor,” named after the most famous Croatian poet. Afterwards, students took part in a cooking workshop dedicated to promoting healthy eating. Participants prepared healthy dishes using local and organic ingredients, including local olive oil. During this workshop, emphasis was placed on the importance of a balanced diet and the benefits of healthy eating on quality of life. The school’s chefs offered advice on how to cook in a healthy and tasty way. It was an activity that combined local cultural information with the values of a healthy lifestyle.
The participating teachers had the opportunity to visit the “Sardina” factory near Postira. This visit provided valuable insight into the sustainable production process of fish products, from responsible fishing to packaging. Sardina is renowned for its eco-friendly fish processing methods, promoting the conservation of local marine resources. Teachers learned about best industrial practices and environmental protection measures applied in the food industry.
On the second day, participants had the opportunity to attend classes organized by the host school, experiencing the local educational system firsthand. Teachers and students shared their teaching methods using interactive techniques and modern resources to stimulate learning. Participants also observed how educational values such as cooperation and respect for diversity are integrated into the curriculum. This experience was a valuable opportunity for exchanging best practices and pedagogical ideas, contributing to the professional development of teachers and improving teaching skills within the Erasmus project. Then, the guests explored the town of Postira using a map under the guidance of a local tour guide. This interactive activity encouraged orientation skills and independent exploration of the area. Using the map, participants identified points of interest such as the local port, St. John the Baptist Church, and the picturesque beaches. By discovering the local culture and the natural beauty of Postira, the students learned about the town’s history and traditions, while also developing teamwork and collaboration skills.
On the third day, students and teachers had the chance to explore the island of Brač, one of the most picturesque islands in Croatia, through a study trip that combined nature, culture, history, and local traditions. The first stop was at Vidova Gora Reserve, the highest point on Brač Island, at an altitude of 778 meters. Vidova Gora is known for its biodiversity, providing a protected habitat for many plant and animal species. Teachers and students discussed the importance of protecting these natural areas, raising awareness of environmental conservation. The local guide provided information on the region’s flora and fauna, as well as the historical settlements on the island, linking them to the sustainability topics addressed in the project. In the afternoon, participants visited the Stone Sculpture School in Pučišća, an internationally renowned institution for preserving the traditional stone carving craft. The white stone from Brač Island is known for its quality and has even been used in famous buildings. During the visit, students watched live sculpture demonstrations and learned about this ancient craft, which is an essential part of the island’s cultural heritage. This activity highlighted the importance of preserving traditional trades in the modern era, contributing to cultural identity and the development of local communities. The study trip on Brač Island was a deeply educational and cultural experience for all Erasmus project participants. Each location offered unique learning opportunities—from exploring the biodiversity of Vidova Gora, to discovering the local history and culture in Bol, and appreciating traditional crafts in Pučišća. This trip not only enriched knowledge about the environment and the island’s history but also encouraged new perspectives on the protection of natural and cultural heritage. It also promoted the exchange of ideas and collaboration among participants, reinforcing common values of solidarity, respect for diversity, and commitment to sustainable development.
On the fourth day, students and teachers visited the Brač Island Museum and the Olive Oil Museum in the village of Škrip, the oldest settlement on the island. At the Island Museum, they discovered the history of Brač from the Roman era to the present, exploring artifacts and local traditions. At the Olive Oil Museum, participants learned about traditional olive oil production methods, essential to the local economy for centuries. Guests had the opportunity to taste local extra virgin olive oil as well as jams made from the island’s orchard fruits. This visit offered valuable insight into the connection between cultural history and present-day agricultural practices. In the late afternoon, students practiced kayaking in teams—a very popular sport on the island—in the tourist port area of Postira.
The last day of the mobility was dedicated to sports activities, an essential element for promoting a healthy lifestyle. In a beautiful natural setting, participants took part in various games and competitions meant to develop team spirit and encourage regular physical activity. Among the sports activities were football, handball, and rugby. These not only helped strengthen the bonds between participants but also emphasized the importance of sport for physical and mental health. A local rugby coach led the activities and spoke to the children about the benefits of regular physical exercise and its impact on longevity and quality of life. It was an opportunity for all to become aware of the importance of movement in daily life, even when integrated into simple or recreational activities. Afterwards, guests participated in a culturally rich local activity: an olive-picking contest. This took place in the orchard of “Vladimir Nazor” School, where participants learned about the importance of traditional and sustainable agriculture. In rural areas of Croatia, olive trees are a basic resource, and the olive harvesting process provided a unique experience. Olive picking was not only a manual activity but also an educational one, offering insight into the hard and dedicated work needed to support the local economy and produce high-quality food without harming local ecosystems. At the end of the Erasmus mobility in Postira, Croatia, a festive dinner was held, accompanied by traditional Croatian music, celebrating the local culture. In a friendly setting, participation certificates were awarded, marking the end of a memorable educational and cultural experience. The Erasmus mobility in Croatia, part of the “A Happy Life in a Healthy Environment” project, offered participants numerous benefits. Beyond the opportunity to explore a new country and interact with people from different cultures, the project contributed to developing ecological awareness and practical skills. Participants learned to appreciate the importance of an active lifestyle, healthy eating, and environmental protection. Furthermore, the mobility promoted international collaboration and the development of interpersonal skills, helping create strong bonds between teenagers from the four countries. The experiences lived during this week in Croatia marked an important step in building a healthier and more environmentally responsible future for the four school and local communities.