First face-to-face project meeting in Spain
From the June 2 to 3, 2025 all Green Cool Schools GROW Europe project partners came together for the first face-to-face meeting in Bilbao, Spain. A total of 26 participants joined the two-day event, which was packed with program points, discussions, and opportunities to connect in person.
Day 1: Project meeting and school visit in Basauri
The first day took us to Basauri Ikastetxea, a school located in Basauri near Bilbao. In the morning, a comprehensive project meeting was held, focusing on updates, coordination, and ongoing tasks within the project.
After a shared lunch, the Teacher Exchange Meeting took place. In between, we had the chance to tour the school premises and explore an inspiring greening project in the schoolyard, where students grow their own vegetables. This visit offered valuable insights into the school’s hands-on approach to environmental education.
Day 2: Collaborative Work and Environmental Education in Getxo
On the second day, we met at Colegio Santísima Trinidad in Getxo. The morning session focused on thematic group work: brainstorming and discussing specific topics related to the project. This collaborative setting fostered in-depth exchange and strengthened the mutual understanding between partners.
In the afternoon, we visited the “AULA AMBIENTAL de Getxo”, an Environmental Classroom and municipal facility accessible to all schools in the region. Its main goal is to raise environmental awareness and promote sustainable development through educational programs and a wide range of weekend activities.
Conclusion: Personal Exchange, Shared Ideas and Looking Ahead
Despite two full days of rainy weather, the meeting was a great success. It was wonderful to finally meet in person, have time to talk, exchange experiences, discuss important issues and set the course for next steps. The face-to-face interaction brought new energy and strengthened our collaboration. Work on the various work packages continues – and we are already looking forward to our next in-person meeting, scheduled for 2026 in Cork, Ireland.
