As parents involved in the Erasmus+ program, we had the unique opportunity to experience both sides of cultural exchange: hosting foreign students in our home and seeing our own children welcomed by families abroad.
Hosting students was a deeply enriching experience. It allowed our family to open our home and share our daily life, traditions, and values. We developed a strong bond with the student we hosted, treating them as part of our family. It was rewarding to see how quickly they adapted and became comfortable, and we appreciated learning about their culture and language in return.
When it was our children’s turn to travel abroad, we were initially a little apprehensive. However, the communication between schools and families reassured us. Our children returned home with greater independence, confidence, and an open mindset. They shared exciting stories about their host families, the school environment, and the new friendships they built.
This program provided benefits beyond language learning. It strengthened cultural awareness, empathy, and adaptability—skills that are fundamental for their personal and academic growth. As parents, we are extremely grateful for the support provided by the schools and the Erasmus+ program, which made this experience safe, well-organized, and transformative.
Students’ Perspective on Erasmus+ Exchange
Participating in the Erasmus+ exchange in Le Mans (France) and Ceska (Czech Republic) has been one of the most unforgettable experiences of our school life. Living with host families in these countries allowed us to immerse ourselves in a completely new culture, improve our language skills, and see the world from a different perspective.
In Le Mans, we discovered French traditions, cuisine, and lifestyle. We attended classes in a French school, which was very different from our own, and we were impressed by their teaching methods. We visited cultural landmarks and worked on Erasmus+ projects alongside students from other countries.
In Ceska, the experience was equally enriching. We were amazed by the history and architecture, and we participated in workshops and group activities that strengthened our teamwork skills and cultural understanding.
Hosting foreign students in our own homes later on was equally special. We enjoyed showing them our local area, sharing our traditions, and making them feel welcome. We realized how much we had learned abroad because we could empathize better with their feelings and needs.
This experience taught us independence, flexibility, and the value of international friendships. Many of the friends we met during Erasmus+ are people we still stay in touch with today. It truly opened our minds and motivated us to continue exploring and learning about different cultures.
Teachers’ Reflection on Erasmus+ Mobility
As teachers participating in the Erasmus+ mobility program, we had the opportunity to engage in professional development abroad and witness firsthand the benefits of international collaboration in education.
During our stay, we attended lessons, observed teaching practices, and participated in workshops designed to share innovative methodologies. We exchanged ideas with foreign colleagues and discussed approaches to improve student engagement, language learning, and digital skills in the classroom.
We also accompanied our students during their mobility, supporting them academically and emotionally. It was rewarding to see them grow in confidence, adapt to new environments, and interact with their peers from different cultural backgrounds.
This experience was not only beneficial for our students but also for us as educators. We returned with new perspectives, teaching strategies, and tools that we have since implemented in our own classrooms. Erasmus+ reminded us of the importance of creating a European learning community that fosters intercultural awareness and lifelong learning.
Overall, Erasmus+ has strengthened our schools' European identity and created long-lasting partnerships with other institutions. We are confident that the skills and knowledge gained will continue to enrich our teaching practice and inspire future generations of students.
