Experience Environment, Health and Nature Activities

This Erasmus+ course offers a unique opportunity for teachers and educators to combine professional development with personal wellbeing, outdoor experiences, and cross-cultural exchange.

Professional Relevance:
Participants gain ready-to-use content for subjects such as biology, geography, environmental education, health, and physical education. The activities are designed to be directly transferable to the classroom, with a strong focus on interdisciplinary and experiential learning.

Environmental Awareness & Sustainability:
The course deepens participants’ understanding of ecological systems, sustainable practices, and the importance of environmental education — empowering them to inspire the next generation of environmentally conscious citizens.

Health & Wellbeing:
Time spent in nature, movement-based sessions, and a focus on nutrition and gut health contribute to both physical and mental wellbeing. The course offers tools to promote a healthy lifestyle in and beyond the school setting.

Digital Competence:
Through the creation of videos, photos, and reports, participants strengthen their digital skills, learn creative ways to share educational content, and explore the use of media for communication and reflection.

European Exchange & Networking:
Teachers from across Europe come together to share ideas, experiences, and cultural perspectives. This builds long-lasting connections and fosters collaboration beyond the course.

Inclusive & Accessible:
All outdoor activities are tailored to different fitness levels, ensuring that everyone can participate fully and comfortably.

Erasmus+ Eligible:
The course is fully eligible for Erasmus+ funding, making it an accessible and cost-effective option for professional development abroad.

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Practical Information

Getting Here: Hittisau is well connected via public transport to the nearest cities Bregenz and Dornbirn, from where you can find train connections to major European cities, with Zurich and Munich just a short train ride away.

Accommodation: From luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses and modern apartments, Hittisau offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. However, we offer a special package of accommodation with breakfast or half-pension at the course venue Pension Bals.

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Methodology
This course is built on an experiential, hands-on approach that encourages learning through direct interaction with nature and practical activities. It combines field-based exploration, workshops, collaborative group work, guided reflection, and digital documentation. By actively engaging in diverse outdoor environments — from mountains to lakeshores — participants experience first-hand the connection between environmental education, health, and sustainable living.

Participants learn by doing: whether it's collecting and analyzing biodiversity data, visiting ecological sites, or experimenting with fermentation, every activity is designed to be immersive, interactive, and rooted in real-world relevance. The course also integrates digital storytelling and media creation, empowering educators to communicate their learning creatively and bring innovative tools back to the classroom.

Objectives

• To strengthen educators' knowledge of environmental issues and sustainability practices
• To promote outdoor learning and nature-based education as tools for student engagement and wellbeing
• To explore the relationship between health, nutrition, and environmental awareness
• To provide practical, classroom-ready activities for various school subjects
• To enhance digital competence through creative media work and content sharing
• To foster intercultural exchange and professional networking within the Erasmus+ community
• To support the development of inclusive, adaptable teaching practices that are sensitive to different learning needs and physical abilities

By the end of the course, participants will have expanded both their professional toolkit and personal insight, returning home inspired and equipped to implement engaging, sustainability-focused education.

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On Monday and Saturday of your Erasmus+ week, we are pleased to offer complimentary cultural activities centered around the course venue. You will have the opportunity to take part in a city tour that provides captivating insights into the people, traditions, and culture of Vorarlberg.

Additionally, we will arrange an excursion to a nearby attraction, landmark or mountain area, tailored to the season and weather conditions. Detailed information about these activities will be provided during the welcome event on Sunday evening. We look forward to sharing these enriching experiences with you!

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