In a world that often feels divided, Europe in motion offered something different—unity through movement, creativity, and cultural exchange. This Erasmus+ School Exchange Partnership, which ran from September 2019 to August 2021, brought together students and teachers from Germany, Sweden, Lithuania, and Slovenia to explore what it truly means to be European.
A Shared European Heritage in Motion
At its core, Europe in motion was about discovering shared identity through active learning. The project invited students to dive into their common cultural heritage, while also embracing the freedom and possibilities of mobility in a changing world. Using Drama, Music, and Physical Education as cross-curricular vehicles—often taught bilingually in the partner schools—participants explored the ties that connect their countries and cultures.
Through these subjects, and with the help of modern tools like Padlets, apps, and video sharing platforms, students not only created content but also strengthened their digital and communication skills, using English as the main language of exchange.
Real Connections, Despite a Virtual World
The first exchange week took place in Kinna, Sweden, and marked the start of something special. Students were paired across countries and engaged in a creative, multicultural challenge called “Parkour around Europe.” This sports-based activity fused fun with cultural discovery, with students navigating a series of games and tasks inspired by each partner country.
Then came COVID-19. While the pandemic halted physical exchanges, it didn’t stop the spirit of the project. Teachers and students pivoted quickly, keeping the momentum alive through digital storytelling, video projects, and virtual workshops. One standout activity was the Erasmus+ Distance Challenge, a symbolic mission to “visit” each partner school by covering 2,651 kilometers through sport—whether by running, hiking, swimming, or even skateboarding. Every step, every kilometer became part of a shared journey.
Digital Weeks, Real Experiences
As travel restrictions continued, the second and third exchange weeks moved online—one hosted by Germany, the other by Lithuania. Yet the creativity didn’t stop. Students designed educational games, wrote stories, built virtual tours, and made traditional Lithuanian “Straw Gardens,” all while learning about one another’s lives and traditions in real time via video links. These activities offered powerful lessons in cultural appreciation and teamwork.
The virtual exchange days even included group workouts, award ceremonies, and interactive quizzes—proof that distance doesn’t mean disconnection.
A Joyful Return to In-Person Exchange
Finally, the project came full circle with a much-celebrated in-person exchange in Slovenia. Friendships that began online found real-life depth, and emotions ran high during the farewells. Students collaborated on a drama performance based on local legends, bringing together the myths and stories of all participating countries in a shared stage production.
Learning That Lasts
Europe in motion proved that cross-border collaboration isn’t just about travel—it’s about understanding, empathy, and expression. From digital games to traditional crafts, from bilingual lessons to shared sports challenges, the project gave young people a deeper appreciation of Europe’s cultural richness and their own ability to shape its future.
Explore the full experience and multimedia e-book here: Europe in Motion Project
