As part of the European Erasmus Project 2024-1-EL01-KA121-SCH-000228006 of the Evangeliki Model High School of Smyrna, the Mathematician and Vice Principal of our School, Dr. Argyri Panagiota, participated in job shadowing at the Sigtunaskolan Humanistiska Läroverket (SSHL) High School, in Sigtuna, Sweden, from Monday, March 31, 2025 to Friday, April 4, 2025.
SSHL is one of the most renowned boarding schools internationally and one of the leading educational institutions in Sweden, combining academic excellence with a comprehensive student experience. Multiculturalism and quality education make it an excellent destination for students seeking an international perspective in their education.
For this reason, the Erasmus+ KA121 program was a unique opportunity for the teacher to gain valuable experience and knowledge, as well as to develop professional skills. More specifically, through attending courses, a direct insight into the teaching process and the interaction between students and teachers was obtained. Participation in the student organization workshops provided valuable knowledge regarding the development of students’ autonomy and leadership skills, but mainly the cultivation of a culture of youth participation, for the formation of active and responsible citizens. Through the involvement of students in organizations, which include decision-making processes, voluntary actions, student and social initiatives, young people acquire skills, strengthen their voice and actively contribute to shaping their future.
The experience of a different educational system offered valuable knowledge regarding the teaching subjects of the Curriculum and in particular the organization and implementation of the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB DP), the methods of assessing student performance and the methods of utilizing new technologies. Exposure to different cultural and educational environments enhances the understanding and acceptance of diversity, contributing to the creation of a more inclusive school environment.
In particular, staying within the boarding school as a guest teacher offered her a unique opportunity for a deeper understanding of the educational culture, the cultivation of autonomy and the development of self-discipline. Education is not limited to class hours. Students develop skills through group activities, studying in common areas and interacting with peers and teachers in a more informal environment. Experiencing the daily lives of students, she was able to understand the challenges they face, such as adapting to a rigorous schedule. Finally, as a guest teacher at the boarding school, she had the opportunity to interact more closely with colleagues and exchange ideas in a more natural and informal context, such as during meals or shared activities.
In summary, participating in the Erasmus+ KA121 program through job shadowing at SSHL was a transformative experience both professionally and personally. The knowledge, skills and new teaching approaches acquired can be used to improve educational practice and create a dynamic, participatory and innovative learning environment.
For this unique educational experience, the Vice Principal of Evangeliki Model High School of Smyrna Dr. Argyri Panagiota would like to warmly thank the Principal Kerry Browning, the administrative and educational staff at SSHL High School, and Mr. Georgios Savvas for the invitation, the organization of the program of activities and the high quality of the hospitality services provided at the boarding school. Also warm thanks to Dr. Sofoklis Sotiriou, Director of the Department of Research and Development of Hellenic-German Education, for the recommendation to her to do job shadowing at SSHL High School.