Erasmus

Community and Culture

Our Erasmus project continued throughout this academic session and involved sharing and receiving examples of Scottish and European culture. We’ve learned about European culture, for example, Italian Infiorata and Liberation Day, we’ve taught our partners about national celebrations including Bonfire Night and Pancake Day and we’ve had virtual calls to learn about the similarities and differences growing up and going to school in Italy, Austria and Scotland.

St George’s students in Upper 4 and Lower 5 thoroughly enjoyed hosting our partner students from the English International School of Padua (the EISP) in June to share a taste of Scottish Culture. We were pleased to be able to include our Austrian partners at the St Georgen Middle School (NMS St Georgen) digitally for parts of the week too.

Monday included some time spent in school learning Ceilidh dancing and recreating a mini-Highland Games as well as time spent in lessons and touring St George’s. Comparisons were drawn between the two schools throughout the day. Highlights included the open space, sports facilities, and the choices available at lunch.

Tuesday was spent exploring the Pentlands; team games, map reading, and stunning views were enjoyed by both our hosting and visiting students. Our visitors enjoyed learning about rural Scotland and hobbies such as ‘Munro bagging.’

Wednesday was time to explore Urban life. A group of Upper 4 students became tour guides for the day and led a walking tour of Edinburgh, teaching about sites including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile and Greyfriars Kirk.

We were thrilled to be able to host our visitors after long delays due to covid and even more delighted to hear what a happy and memorable experience they’d had. The countdown to our visit to Italy has begun!

Grazie mille per tutto, EISP. See you soon!