Students from Srednja škola “Jure Kaštelan” and Gymnázium Hlinská Explore Digital Literacy, Outdoor Learning, and Environmental Awareness through an Erasmus+ Partnership

In a shining example of international cooperation, Srednja škola “Jure Kaštelan” from Omiš, Croatia, and Gymnázium Hlinská from Žilina, Slovakia, partnered in an Erasmus+ mobility project aimed at strengthening education, intercultural understanding, and lifelong learning. These two institutions—each with a rich educational tradition and a modern, student-centered approach—joined forces to give students a transformative experience across borders. A total of 16 students—8 from Omiš and 8 from Žilina—were selected through a rigorous application process at their respective schools and earned their places in the exchange.

Srednja škola “Jure Kaštelan” is known for its adaptability to labor market needs, offering general and language gymnasium programs alongside vocational training in tourism, electronics, gastronomy, beauty, and technical fields. Gymnázium Hlinská, with more than 60 years of tradition, provides extended German, natural science, and general academic programs, with a strong emphasis on language skills, scientific literacy, and extracurricular involvement.

Mobility in Žilina: Embracing Digital Learning in a Mountainous Setting

The exchange began in February, when the Croatian delegation visited Žilina for a week of workshops focused on digital media literacy and outdoor education, combining classroom innovation with cultural exploration.

Croatian students Zara and Lana share their reflections on their week in Žilina: “Our Erasmus+ trip to Žilina, Slovakia, was an amazing experience full of learning, fun, and new friendships,” shared Zara. “We were warmly welcomed, shared presentations about our cultures, and joined a creative workshop on handwriting vs typing. That first day ended with city sightseeing and bowling with our new friends!”

On day two, the group dove into modern tech: “We had a workshop on AI and ChatGPT, debated its pros and cons in education, made posters, and even tried 3D printing to create personalized keychains,” said Lana. “In the afternoon, we did team-building games and won the quiz ‘IQonnect Live’—then finished the day with an adrenaline-filled karting session!”

Day three was all about nature: “We went to the High Tatras, saw ice sculptures at Hrebienok, visited Kvantarium, and played on a frozen lake. It was beautiful and filled with laughter,” Lana added.

The fourth day brought a digital adventure: “We did a geocaching challenge near the University of Žilina, attended a sleep workshop, tried virtual reality, and ended the day with laser tag and a traditional Slovak dinner.”

On the final day: “We visited Budatin Castle, made heart-shaped wire crafts, and had a farewell party with food, music, hugs—and some tears,” Zara recalled. “We even gave our teachers gifts and ended the night with huge smiles.”

Podcast Insight – Slovakia

Croatian students Zara and Luka, along with Slovak students, were guests on a podcast hosted by the students from Omiš, during which they shared their thoughts and experiences about the Erasmus+ program: “The Slovak students were so friendly—we became close,” said Zara in a student podcast. “We even created Snapchat groups to keep in touch. These friendships will last.”
“It was funny how surprised they were that we drink so much coffee at our age,” Luka laughed. “Coffee breaks became a joke, but also the time when we bonded most.”

The podcast also highlighted how the experience brought Croatian students closer to each other. “Before Erasmus, we were just hallway acquaintances. Now, we go out for coffee and hang out like real friends,” Luka said.

Mobility in Omiš: A STEM Adventure by the Sea

In April, Slovak students and teachers traveled to Omiš, where the Croatian team hosted a vibrant and multidisciplinary program combining STEM, digital literacy, and environmental education with the natural beauty and culture of the Dalmatian coast.

Slovak student Lukáš shares his reflection on his week in Omiš:
“Omiš is such a beautiful city—with mountains and lovely beaches,” said Lukáš. “We worked alongside students from Jure Kaštelan High School, who were amazing and friendly, just like their teachers.”

“The main theme was digital literacy, but we also explored robotics, cyber sickness, oceanography, astronomy, and even the history of the Croatian navy and the cities of Omiš and Split. We had a boat tour on the Cetina River and plenty of free time for beach activities. It was an unforgettable week.”

“Thanks to Erasmus+ and our Croatian hosts for making this experience possible!”

Podcast Insight – Croatia

Slovak students Sara and Ema: “On our first day, two Croatian students sang a song for us! It was such a warm and unexpected welcome,” Ema recalled. “And we loved racing robots in the hallway and learning about digital illnesses in psychology workshops.”

“I really liked the workshop before the podcast—it was about cyber sickness. It was fascinating,” added Sara.

The two Slovak students also mentioned cultural surprises: “Croatians are louder and more energetic than us,” Ema noted, “but in a fun way. We got used to it quickly and enjoyed the vibe.”

“I’d love to stay here longer,” she added. “I improved my English, gained confidence, and had a great time.”

Teacher Insight – Omiš Week

The program featured robotics with Sphero Bolt, a tech scavenger hunt, and scientific experiments using natural materials. Students learned to filter water, make soap, and analyze limestone, visited the Oceanographic Institute in Split, and simulated cosmic systems at the University of Split. The program balanced hands-on science with local culture and nature, perfectly aligned with Gymnázium Hlinská’s educational goals.

Cultural Connections and Shared Discoveries

The mobilities also uncovered shared values and endearing contrasts between the two cultures. Students bonded over a mutual love for sports and laughed about differences in drink preferences—Slovaks love tea, while Croats are hooked on coffee.

“Our humor is more direct and sometimes weird, but the Slovak students were open and understanding,” said Zara. “That mutual respect made it easy to connect.”

The podcast highlighted how these moments built lasting memories—and resilience. “It helped me see my school achievements in a different way,” Luka reflected. “Erasmus felt like someone saying, ‘Good job.’”

Conclusion

The Erasmus+ partnership between Srednja škola “Jure Kaštelan” and Gymnázium Hlinská was much more than a mobility—it was an enriching, joyful, and transformative experience. Through STEM workshops, cultural exchange, shared adventures, and deep conversations, students grew academically, socially, and personally.

As Slovak student Ema perfectly summarized: “Whether it’s Croatia, Germany, or anywhere—if you have the chance to do Erasmus, just go for it.”

Students:

Lana Tafra, Luka Srzić, Višnja Burić, Zara Sladojevićv – Srednja škola “Jure Kaštelan”

Lukáš Franček, Ema Mičáková, Sára Doležalová – Gymnázium Hlinská

Teachers:

Patrícia Bajcsiová – Gymnázium Hlinská

Nikolina Babić Mardešić – Srednja škola “Jure Kaštelan”