“Shaping Europe by working together” is a project funded by the EU. Thirteen students of the last three years of the “Luigi Trafelli” High School were able to participate in the project, as they had passed the English PET Examination (B1).

The aim of the project was to introduce the students to the world of employment on an international level. They also focused on improving their overall knowledge, language competence and personal skills. In those three weeks, the students worked for a total amount of 90 hours. They had the opportunity to deeply understand and explore the environment in which they lived and worked and to experience different cultures and lifestyles. 

The English language, essential in social and working relationships, was the key of this project. The students had time to study and to catch up with their classmates in Italy, thanks to multimedia lessons and on-line materials. Additionally, in order to monitor their progress, they carried out regular tests on the English language and culture.

At the weekends they participated in educational and guided tours in places of cultural interest like Glasgow, Edinburgh and Sterling. These tours gave them the opportunity to come into close contact with the history of the country, its works of art and its scientific and technological contributions to human milestones.

The group attended two different sport events: a basketball game and a rugby match. Sitting on the stands alongside Scottish supporters and breathing a feeling of fair competition were really powerful experiences.

They took part in a “Ceilidh” (traditional Scottish dances) at Glasgow University, where they enjoyed feeling as members of the university community.

In conclusion, the students feel very grateful for this opportunity. Living on their own, away from their families, and working in a foreign country for the first time, have stimulated their personal development and enhanced their maturity, creativity and sense of responsability. Not only did their working and language skills improve, but their respect and appreciation for a multicultural society was amplified.

They strongly believe in their European identity and feel citizens of the entire world. They will surely never forget this fabulous and formative adventure!