Fresh teaching ideas, a new perspective on our lessons or a partnership that lasts for years: Erasmus+ brings a great deal to Crescendo CVO. During Erasmus Days, we highlight how international exchanges strengthen our teachers, learners and organisation.
Observing another school also changes how you see your own classroom. In Valencia, our language teachers found inspiration for city-based assignments, digital learning pathways and a warm welcome for new learners. In Tuscany, colleagues discovered examples of project work and learner support. In Lyon and Soria, we explored how education providers and businesses can strengthen each other.
Our workshops benefit from these connections too. Eef Theys and Evi Goovaerts returned from Florence and Prato with ideas about sustainable leather use, repairs and traditional craft techniques. In Carrara, Danny Schelfthout and Marleen Mast explored how stoneworking combines with robotics and 3D technology.
These experiences encourage us to refine our teaching content, explore new possibilities and make more considered choices about what suits our learners.
Colleagues abroad often face familiar questions: how do you support learners with different needs? How do you remove barriers to learning? And how do you use technology effectively?
In La Spezia, we saw how volunteers and childcare help adults attend classes. In Bologna and Pontedera, we exchanged experiences of initial assessments, language support and pathways into employment.
During the visit to Tallinn, the focus was on the role of AI in teaching and learning. Our educational ICT coordinator Stijn summed up one important insight:
“Nobody has all the answers today, but together we learn faster.”
Translated from Dutch.
These exchanges give our staff opportunities to deepen their expertise and take a critical look at their own practices.
We also share what works for us. In Italy, Conny ran workshops on active, playful language learning using Alternative Ways. Stijn shared his knowledge of AI, while Ariane shared her expertise in communication in adult education.
Sometimes, we can see exactly how an idea travels. After his observation week at Crescendo, English teacher Christos Arampatzis, who works at the language school in Las Palmas, developed a teaching activity by Fernando Díaz Ruiz into “Reverse Taboo”. His learners practise speaking by using as many keywords as possible related to a topic.
As our partner school writes:
“Because when we share what we learn, an exchange can reach much further than the person taking part in it.”
Translated from Spanish.
Visitors from abroad also help us recognise our own strengths more clearly. Our individual support, practical workshops and active approach to teaching make an impression. Italian learners described their experience of learning outside the classroom:
“We saw the city differently. You learn by looking, listening and moving. Not just by sitting in a classroom.”
Translated from Dutch.
Visits by learners from Portugal, Italy and Gran Canaria, among other places, bring international exchanges into our classrooms. Attending lessons, practising and sharing experiences together offers everyone new perspectives.
For visitors, the benefits often extend beyond language skills. Paula practised her French in class and during visits she organised independently. Javier described how he came to understand Belgian society better:
“This experience has enabled me to deepen my knowledge of the country, better understand its culture, political system and way of life, and enrich my personal view of Belgian society.”
Javier Expósito, translated from French.
Ignacio highlighted the personal growth:
“The practical concerns will pass, but the personal growth stays with you forever.”
Ignacio Alonso, translated from Spanish.
The value of Erasmus+ grows when experiences are shared: in conversations with colleagues, by trying out a teaching idea or by taking the next step with a partner. Our long-standing relationships lead to return visits, workshops and new learning opportunities.
During Erasmus Days, we celebrate these connections. What one colleague discovers can inspire an entire team. What begins in one classroom can create new opportunities elsewhere.
Discover our Erasmus+ experiences and international partnerships.
What does Erasmus+ mean for Crescendo CVO?
Through Erasmus+, Crescendo CVO exchanges knowledge and experience with European education providers. These partnerships inspire our teaching, learner support and the further development of our centre.
How does Erasmus+ support teachers’ professional development?
Teachers observe lessons, take part in workshops and discuss their approaches with colleagues abroad. This helps them deepen their subject knowledge and discover different ways to support adult learners.
How do learners benefit from Erasmus+ exchanges?
Teachers bring fresh insights and teaching activities into the classroom. Our learners also meet visitors from abroad who temporarily join their classes, creating additional opportunities to practise together and share experiences.
What topics does Crescendo CVO work on with international partners?
Exchanges cover language teaching, technical and craft training, digital education, AI, inclusion, learner support and partnerships with businesses.
Does Crescendo CVO also host teachers and learners from abroad?
Yes. Through Erasmus+, Crescendo CVO welcomes teachers and adult learners from European partner schools. They observe or attend lessons and discover our courses, learner support and practical approach to learning.