ENGLISH MATTERS

I am grateful for every moment during the course in Dublin. It was an amazing experience. I met great, friendly and inspiring colleagues. My English has improved and I am no longer afraid of speaking and writing in English. The lecturers were full of optimism and wonderful advice on how to improve our teaching profession.

My experience in this European training program has been truly enriching. I had the chance to meet colleagues from various countries, such as Italy, Bulgaria, and Norway, allowing me to appreciate their diverse cultures. Building connections with these educators enhanced our collaborative spirit and facilitated the sharing of best practices.

The program effectively linked the learning of new techniques to concrete content, including local culture, science, and orientation, which made it easier to apply in our teaching. Additionally, I discovered innovative tools aimed at motivating students in their learning. Overall, this training has provided me with valuable insights and resources that I look forward to implementing in my educational practice.

I spent a very enriching week with two instructors who are truly passionate about sharing their knowledge. I discovered a country I didn’t know before, full of fascinating history that I want to keep learning about. The course content met my expectations, and I’m coming back with lots of new ideas.

One of the most significant learnings of this experience was to promote self-expression in the classroom is to give the student space to be himself with his ideas, emotions, doubts and dreams. It is to create a safe environment where every voice is valued, where making mistakes is not a shame, but part of the learning process. By allowing students to express themselves authentically, whether through speech, writing, art or movement we are helping them build identity, trust and critical thinking. Self-expression makes learning more meaningful, more human and more connected to real life. As a teacher, I learned that listening is as important as teaching.

This was my first Erasmus+ experience and my first European programme for teachers. I would only add very few words. It was simply perfect. Though I already knew about AI and some of the tools presented, I’ve discovered other uses for them; I’ve shared same challenges and found new possible solutions to common problems; I’ve learned to look at things from a different perspective; I’ve shared my time with people from different nationalities and interacting is always precious for me; I’ve got to know such engaging people and learned a lot from them; I’ve met my dream of visiting and living Dublin, even for a little bit. Last but not least, the organisation of English Matters, is wonderfully competent, kind and inspiring. I hope to live another experience with you soon, especially if it’s the Talking to people course

One of the most significant learnings of this experience was to promote self-expression in the classroom is to give the student space to be himself with his ideas, emotions, doubts and dreams. It is to create a safe environment where every voice is valued, where making mistakes is not a shame, but part of the learning process. By allowing students to express themselves authentically, whether through speech, writing, art or movement we are helping them build identity, trust and critical thinking. Self-expression makes learning more meaningful, more human and more connected to real life. As a teacher, I learned that listening is as important as teaching.

This course exceeded all expectations: it was well structured, with a thought-provoking,
high-level, well presented syllabus. I’ll take home new friends, new concepts, new methodologies and a newfound energy and motivation to keep teaching with energy and passion.

I really appreciated the course I attended for three reasons: -The teachers are very knowledgeable and they designed activities that were interesting, stimulating, and aligned with the course’s final objectives. I especially appreciate their kindness in respecting the different needs of all participants at various moments throughout the course.

I was truly happy with the organisation and the content of the course and I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in this kind of education.

This training programme in Ireland was a truly enriching experience. From exploring the beauty of Irish nature and culture to engaging in inspiring workshops, I gained both professional insights and personal growth. I especially appreciated the focus on storytelling, inclusive teaching, and emotional connection with students.
Activities like the Hand Model of the Brain, creative group games, and discussions on student support gave me practical tools I plan to apply in my teaching. Working with colleagues from different cultures helped me reflect on diversity, empathy, and the power of collaboration.
I’m grateful for the chance to step out of the script, present in our own way, and be surrounded by people who genuinely want to make education better. Most of all, I return home inspired to support my students, even when they struggle, and help them grow through meaningful, human-centered learning.

This was my first Erasmus+ experience and my first European programme for teachers. I would only add very few words. It was simply perfect. Though I already knew about AI and some of the tools presented, I’ve discovered other uses for them; I’ve shared same challenges and found new possible solutions to common problems; I’ve learned to look at things from a different perspective; I’ve shared my time with people from different nationalities and interacting is always precious for me; I’ve got to know such engaging people and learned a lot from them; I’ve met my dream of visiting and living Dublin, even for a little bit. Last but not least, the organisation of English Matters, is wonderfully competent, kind and inspiring. I hope to live another experience with you soon, especially if it’s the Talking to people course.

It has been such a great week! Very rewarding both in professional and personal aspects.

Getting to know teachers from all over Europe and exchanging ideals, ideas and best practices was extremely inspiring. Thank you Erasmus+ and thank you EnglishMatters!

I’m truly grateful to have the opportunity to participate in this Erasmus+ programme. I was able to enrich my knowledge of new teaching methods and to develop my communication in English in everyday situations. During this week I’ve learned about to work in European Dimension because, discovering the Irish culture, we’ve developed the teamwork, the collaboration between teachers from different countries and comparing our school practises. All this was possible because we’ve used many educational methodologies as digital tools, tableau technique, “Hour” task, Jigsaw method, group discussions, outdoor learning, talks, cultural understanding, cooperative works. In my opinion, these strategies can be used at school and could be very useful for our students to learn how to work together and to improve their knowledge in different ways.

I wouldn’t change anything about the training I attended, as everything was very well organized and delivered with high quality.

My journey starts with a deep belief: that education is not only about teaching subjects, but about nurturing people. It begins in the classroom, in every shared glance, question, silence, and discovery. This journey took a new breath in Dublin — walking through streets full of stories and greenery that whispers learning in different forms. Here, I stepped further out of my comfort zone, letting new methods, voices and reflections reshape the way I see my role as an educator.

I will integrate what I have learned by rethinking how I approach learning as an experience — one that is collaborative, creative and rooted in real-life contexts. I will continue to implement active methodologies such as storytelling, role-play, and project-based learning, using them as bridges between knowledge and emotion. I also plan to share these strategies with colleagues, multiplying the impact of this Erasmus experience across my school community.

I consider the “AI for teaching” course very useful and inspiring. Even though, it didn´t only focus on language teaching, it managed to provide knowledge and develop skills that I need regarding implementing AI tools in my everyday teaching. The activities were meaningful, engaging and very inspiring also from a methodological point of view. The structure of the course was logical, and it was very well-organised. The venue of the course was amazing and easily accessible.

I appreciated every aspect of the course, from the subjects chosen to the incredible skills of all the teachers. I wouldn’t do anything differently because it went beyond my expectations and everything was simply perfect because it really fulfilled my needs.

Very creative trainers Very nice and positive learning climate New ideas of activities and methodology.

I recommend this course not only to improve your English language and communicate in English but above all to learn about different ideas and cultures.

This Erasmus course in Dublin was an enriching experience that successfully combined language development, cultural immersion, and pedagogical growth. I strengthened my confidence in using English for professional purposes, expanded my cultural awareness, and learned how to incorporate authentic, task-based learning into my teaching. The programme fostered cross-European dialogue and opened doors for future collaboration with international colleagues. I leave with new ideas, new contacts, and renewed motivation for my teaching career.

Just a few words come into my mind: What a lovely course and time it was! In the beginning I was stressed, I didn´t know what to expect, what people I will meet and how I am going to survive the week in Dublin on my own (as I came alone). And yes, it was perfect. The classes were so engaging, interesting, full of information and new techniques and methods. My “classmates” were amazing, the community was so powerful and supportive.

My experience in this European training program has been truly enriching. I had the chance to meet colleagues from various countries, such as Italy, Bulgaria, and Norway, allowing me to appreciate their diverse cultures. Building connections with these educators enhanced our collaborative spirit and facilitated the sharing of best practices.

The program effectively linked the learning of new techniques to concrete content, including local culture, science, and orientation, which made it easier to apply in our teaching. Additionally, I discovered innovative tools aimed at motivating students in their learning. Overall, this training has provided me with valuable insights and resources that I look forward to implementing in my educational practice.

It was an amazing experience. This week made me realize that I can do much more than I thought. I overcame my fear and tried to talk as much as possible. The great thing was that during this week we worked in a group of people from other countries, so we were practically forced to use English to communicate. My teacher is a very positive person. She spoke in a way that was understandable to me. It was an interesting experience to become a student again.

This week was a good start to continue learning English. Thanks a million!

I spent a very enriching week with two instructors who are truly passionate about sharing their knowledge. I discovered a country I didn’t know before, full of fascinating history that I want to keep learning about. The course content met my expectations, and I’m coming back with lots of new ideas.

I consider the “AI for teaching” course very useful and inspiring. Even though, it didn´t only focus on language teaching, it managed to provide knowledge and develop skills that I need regarding implementing AI tools in my everyday teaching. The activities were meaningful, engaging and very inspiring also from a methodological point of view. The structure of the course was logical, and it was very well-organised. The venue of the course was amazing and easily accessible.

It was a storytelling day — definitely one of my highlights. As an English teacher, I see so much potential in using stories — especially with younger learners. The session made us think and reflect in a fun, creative way (which actually takes so much effort!).I took many notes and ideas. Stories are such a powerful way to introduce vocabulary and structure in a natural and emotional way.

This European training programme was very valuable, especially in deepening my understanding of mindfulness and wellbeing. It showed me how important these practices are for improving both personal and professional life.
It has been a highly enriching experience. It expanded my professional skills, deepened my cultural understanding, and inspired me to apply new approaches in my work. I feel motivated and better prepared to support my students and colleagues.

This week was more than a course—it was a personal and professional turning point. It reminded me why I chose education in the first place. I return home not only with new tools, but with a heart full of gratitude, connections that go beyond borders, and the renewed certainty that teaching, when grounded in purpose and humanity, truly has the power to change lives.
Thank you! 💚

This European training programme in Dublin has been an incredibly rich and inspiring professional journey. Each day offered new insights – from practical mindfulness tools to deep cultural and emotional reflections. I am happy that now I know how to introduce mindfulness in my classroom in a meaningful way, through breathing techniques, reflective writing, storytelling, and sensory awareness. The activities we practised — like walking meditation in Glendalough, slow art viewing in the National Gallery, and interactive SEL games — showed me how mindfulness can support both learning and wellbeing. I have been inspired and plan to apply several creative methods from this course, especially in my Intercultural Communication classes. Exercises such as “The Labels We Carry,” “The Half-Painting Story,” and storytelling through images of shoes allowed me to see how empathy can be taught and nurtured. What I appreciated most was the strong European spirit — sharing experiences with colleagues from different countries reminded me that we face similar challenges, but also that we are stronger together.

I believe that all aspects were planned to ensure that our role as teachers and students is felt, both active and interested in improving our profession. The course values our mission, and participating in such a course is an investment in the school, the students, and the other teachers who will be present during the dissemination in various countries. Finally, we value the moments of sharing between teachers from different countries and the connections created for future projects in Europe, providing our students with a closer and more inclusive view of Europe, expanding their knowledge and learning experiences.
A happy brain is a learning brain!

This course was not only an opportunity for me to improve my language skills, but overall, for a deep reflection on my role as a teacher. I met fantastic people from different countries who helped me understand that there are no borders in education and that inspiration can come from every corner of the Europe. I’m returning to Poland with new energy, ready to implement fresh ideas and strive for continuous development. This experience will certainly have a lasting impact on my work and life.

I learned that collaboration between teachers is important because every teacher is an important resource. I’ll incorporate what I learned introducing new methodologies about coworking. I will never forget this experience that enriched me and made me happy.

I really appreciated the course I attended for three reasons: -The teachers are very knowledgeable and they designed activities that were interesting, stimulating, and aligned with the course’s final objectives. I especially appreciate their kindness in respecting the different needs of all participants at various moments throughout the course.

I wouldn’t change anything about the training I attended, as everything was very well organized and delivered with high quality.

I believe that all aspects were planned to ensure that our role as teachers and students is felt, both active and interested in improving our profession. The course values our mission, and participating in such a course is an investment in the school, the students, and the other teachers who will be present during the dissemination in various countries. Finally, we value the moments of sharing between teachers from different countries and the connections created for future projects in Europe, providing our students with a closer and more inclusive view of Europe, expanding their knowledge and learning experiences.
A happy brain is a learning brain!

Participating in this European training programme has been a rewarding and insightful journey, expanding both my teaching practice and cultural perspective. I appreciated the focus on 21st-century skills and innovative teaching methods, which encouraged me to reflect on my role as an educator in today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape.

The program provided valuable insights into cooperative learning and cultural integration, reinforcing the importance of empathy, well-being, and critical thinking in the classroom. Meeting and collaborating with teachers from across Europe was inspiring and underscored the diversity in our approaches and the unity in our goals as educators. This network will continue to be a resource as I implement and adapt these ideas to my own teaching.

This training programme has been a truly enriching experience for me. I had the opportunity to improve my English skills, explore Irish culture, and share ideas with people from different countries. The lessons were interactive and engaging, and the visits to cultural sites like Glendalough, the art gallery, and the theatre made the learning even more meaningful. I also enjoyed working on creative tasks, like describing photos and recipes, which helped me gain confidence in using English in everyday situations. I return home with new knowledge, unforgettable memories, and a strong motivation to continue learning.

This week was more than a course—it was a personal and professional turning point. It reminded me why I chose education in the first place. I return home not only with new tools, but with a heart full of gratitude, connections that go beyond borders, and the renewed certainty that teaching, when grounded in purpose and humanity, truly has the power to change lives.

Thank you! 💚

This European training programme was very valuable, especially in deepening my understanding of mindfulness and wellbeing. It showed me how important these practices are for improving both personal and professional life.
It has been a highly enriching experience. It expanded my professional skills, deepened my cultural understanding, and inspired me to apply new approaches in my work. I feel motivated and better prepared to support my students and colleagues.

I learned that collaboration between teachers is important because every teacher is an important resource. I’ll incorporate what I learned introducing new methodologies about coworking. I will never forget this experience that enriched me and made me happy.

I recommend this course not only to improve your English language and communicate in English but above all to learn about different ideas and cultures.

This Erasmus+ training course in Dublin was a truly inspiring and meaningful professional development experience. It offered a perfect balance between theory and practice, combining classroom-based learning with cultural immersion and real-world exploration.
The structure of the course was clear and effective: every morning session provided theoretical input, practical tools, and group discussions, while the afternoon field learning projects allowed us to connect what we learned with the local context.
What I appreciated most was the intercultural exchange: meeting colleagues from different countries, learning about their education systems, and discovering similarities and differences helped me broaden my perspective and feel part of a larger European teaching community.
Finally, the course reminded me that being a teacher means being a lifelong learner, open to innovation, and ready to inspire students not only with knowledge, but with values.

A wonderful experience with well-paced times and lessons that allowed me to improve my knowledge in the field of AI.

The course was very stimulating. I really liked the idea of working in different groups, and I appreciated the European dimension. I deepened my knowledge of Irish culture and AI.

It has been such a great week! Very rewarding both in professional and personal aspects.

Getting to know teachers from all over Europe and exchanging ideals, ideas and best practices was extremely inspiring. Thank you Erasmus+ and thank you EnglishMatters!

The course was very structured but there was enough free space to do it in my own way. I learned so much about AI-tools with all their advantages and limits, Irish culture and history, improved my English language skills and made new friends. I felt the European spirit every minute during the whole week. I am proud of my self to present my results in front of professionals in English.

A wonderful experience with well-paced times and lessons that allowed me to improve my knowledge in the field of AI.

I am fully aware of the great opportunity I had by participating in this course, not only for what I learned about the English language, but also for the richness of the relationships established, the comparison with classmates, and the in-depth knowledge of Irish culture, history, traditions and music.

Our teacher guided us with competence and kindness, through an engaging and stimulating methodology.”

The course has completely fulfilled my expectations. It was well organized, rich in contents and with excellent
professors and has enabled me to learn about Ireland, practise my English and meeting new people.

Participating in this European training programme has been a rewarding and insightful journey, expanding both my teaching practice and cultural perspective. I appreciated the focus on 21st-century skills and innovative teaching methods, which encouraged me to reflect on my role as an educator in today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape.

The program provided valuable insights into cooperative learning and cultural integration, reinforcing the importance of empathy, well-being, and critical thinking in the classroom. Meeting and collaborating with teachers from across Europe was inspiring and underscored the diversity in our approaches and the unity in our goals as educators. This network will continue to be a resource as I implement and adapt these ideas to my own teaching.

The reality as our textbook! А brilliant approach to learning: you stay on all the time!

I will bring all the good things from the course program to the reality of our country: how to structure the lesson to be effective and desirable.

Once you visit Ireland, it never leaves you!

This course was not only an opportunity for me to improve my language skills, but overall, for a deep reflection on my role as a teacher. I met fantastic people from different countries who helped me understand that there are no borders in education and that inspiration can come from every corner of the Europe. I’m returning to Poland with new energy, ready to implement fresh ideas and strive for continuous development. This experience will certainly have a lasting impact on my work and life.

Very creative trainers, very nice and positive learning climate. New ideas of activities and methodology.

I was truly happy with the organisation and the content of the course and I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in this kind of education.

Integrating mindfulness through storytelling allowed me to experience how powerful stories can be when combined with awareness and intention. As we slow down to listen, or tell, a story with presence, we begin to notice not just the words, but the emotions, the pauses, and the underlying messages. In the classroom, storytelling becomes more than entertainment, it becomes a mindful practice that helps children connect with their inner world, identify emotions, and build empathy. Through mindful listening and reflective dialogue after the story, students learn to stay present, regulate emotions, and relate to others with kindness and curiosity

I am very happy about my stay in Dublin. So many new impressions I could take home with me!!!

It was a valuable change of scene and has encouraged me again to try things out – and not give in too easily if they do not work right away. New methods need practice.

I have also experienced that the exchange with colleagues (which often is only short during busy school days) reveals a lot of ideas, thoughts, but also doubts we have in common. This gives me more energy as I feel that I am not alone with the whole topic.