From 2–4 March 2026, Ivana Bokavšek, lead educator at Lina Edu Erasmus+ Courses, was invited to deliver professional development workshops for teachers at IES Suárez de Figueroa in Zafra (Badajoz), Spain.
The visit highlighted the power of Erasmus+ collaboration in education, bringing together educators committed to innovation, student engagement, and international knowledge exchange.
Innovative Teacher Training Workshops in Spain
During the workshops, teachers explored a variety of modern teaching strategies and learning approaches designed to improve classroom practice.
The programme included activities focused on:
- media literacy development
- creative writing techniques
- mindfulness strategies for students
- improving concentration and reducing study fatigue
Teachers discovered practical ways to integrate mindful learning techniques into their classrooms, helping students improve focus, manage stress, and maintain motivation during learning activities.
Adapting Teaching Methods for Today’s Students
Another important focus of the workshops was adapting teaching methods to meet the learning needs of the new generation of students.
Participants explored free digital tools for teaching and learning that support:
- critical thinking
- classroom debates
- democratic participation and voting
- argument-based discussion and civic awareness
Teachers also practised key reading strategies, including skimming, scanning, and intensive reading, and discussed how to design activities that encourage students to read with genuine curiosity and persistence.
Lesson Planning and Learning Outcomes
The programme included a detailed demonstration of effective lesson planning aligned with learning outcomes and pedagogical standards.
Participants examined how well-structured classroom activities lead to successful educational results and ensure that lessons meet both methodological and curricular requirements.
Ivana Bokavšek presented a best-practice example of cross-curricular collaboration between Art and English, illustrating how interdisciplinary teaching can strengthen creativity and student engagement.
The example showcased a carefully designed extracurricular programme for a full school year, integrating multiple educational goals.
Teachers explored how to:
- prepare students for creative writing tasks
- design motivating classroom environments
- guide students toward entrepreneurial thinking
- incorporate volunteering activities into projects
- strengthen presentation skills
Special attention was given to using cultural heritage as inspiration for student projects, encouraging learners to recognise its value and importance for future generations.
Creativity, Reflection, and Formative Assessment
During the practical workshop sessions, teachers participated in creative writing and art-based learning activities. The art workshop was led by creative Art teacher, Mr Joaquin Montero.
Through self-reflection and peer feedback, participants experienced the importance of formative assessment, a key strategy that helps students understand their progress and continuously improve their work.
Discovering a Leading Erasmus+ School in Zafra
During her stay, Lina Edu educator Ivana Bokavšek also explored the host school’s educational initiatives and projects, including its impressive Erasmus+ experience.
She visited the school’s developing Future Lab, guided by IT teacher Mr Enrique Agudo, which aims to create innovative and technology-rich learning environments.
Ivana was also interviewed by the student journalism team at the school’s professionally equipped radio station, managed by French teacher Mrs Sandra de Venda.
Promoting the Center of Excellence of Split-Dalmatia County
One of the highlights of the visit was a meeting at the Zafra City Hall, where Ivana Bokavšek was welcomed by the Mayor of Zafra.
During the meeting, she presented the work of Lina Edu Erasmus+ Courses and the Center of Excellence of Split-Dalmatia County, a highly equipped educational institution offering advanced programmes for teachers and highly motivated students.
The Center of Excellence focuses particularly on STEM and STEAM education, providing innovative learning opportunities and supporting talented learners.
The meeting reflected mutual respect and opened possibilities for future international cooperation between educational institutions.
Strengthening Professional Development for Teachers
Ivana Bokavšek also visited the Centro de Profesores y de Recursos de Zafra, where she met education adviser Ms Almudena Jiménez.
Their discussion emphasised the importance of continuous professional development for teachers, highlighting the dedication required to improve educational quality and support teacher growth.
Erasmus+ – Building Bridges in Education
This experience demonstrates how Erasmus+ programmes create valuable opportunities for teachers, schools, and educational organisations across Europe.
Through international cooperation, educators can exchange ideas, share best practices, and develop innovative teaching approaches that benefit students and learning communities.
For Lina Edu Erasmus+ Courses, such collaborations represent a key part of its mission:
to provide high-quality teacher training, practical classroom strategies, and meaningful international learning experiences.
Together with partners across Europe, Lina Edu and the Center of Excellence continue to strengthen educational cooperation, innovation, and professional growth in education.
