The best ever learning experience in a unique location!
Transitional Leadership provided by Europass in La Laguna, Teacher Academy was the most memorable methodology course I’ve ever taken part in. My aim was to brush up my leading skills and to learn new strategies how to empower followers and communities. Working as a deputy head I felt I needed it to motivate colleagues, students and myself.
The course content was tailored to the needs of participants; the theory was always put into practice while interacting and cooperating with others; mindfulness elements were incorporated to ensure the most effective ways of studying contributing to our personal growth and well-being. We practiced emotional intelligence, active listening and empathy within the framework of NVC (Non-Violent Communication). We got some guidelines on how to apply the principles of the growth in mindset to create a culture of innovation and growth. The standard of the course was risen by the limited number of participants (there were only five of us from Cyprus, Poland and Hungary) and by the additional professional coaching skills of our trainer. I was in the fortunate situation to be joined on the course by my colleague Tünde, the principal of our school, so that we could start planning straight away what and how we will put into practice what we have learned there for the benefit of SZLI.
The breath-taking environment, the beautiful nature around us with its rich and different culture also added to my learning experience. A three-hour walking guided tour around La Laguna, the formal capital of the island, enriched my historical knowledge while a trip to the Teide, the greatest dormant volcano of the island, catered for my scientific interest. Both programmes were organised by the training association with excellent activity leaders.
As the island offered much more we tried to make the most of our stay. When in Tenerife it is a must to swim in the ocean. The best beach I tried is Las Teresitas, not far from the capital. Its location, the mountains nearby and the safe beach with fine yellow sand brought here from the Sahara desert provided an unforgettably relaxing time. We also made a round-the-island day-trip, during which we visited all the most famous places, stopped at a banana plantation and the local ‘factory’ of storage, enjoyed the view of Los Gigantes and the beauty of Orotava and tried different typical local food.
All in all, it was time well-spent on nourishing the brain, getting equipped with leading skills, contributing to personal growth while absorbing a unique culture. Thank you for the opportunity.