The objectives of the project were: 1) to improve the competences of science teachers in the organisation of integrated science education in grades 5-8, by developing teaching materials focused on learning by exploration; 2) to adopt good practices and innovative methods in science education; 3) to strengthen experiential and problem-based learning in science education at the primary level, enhancing learning motivation; 4) to optimise the educational process by applying integrated science education. The aim was to provide the participating teachers with theoretical knowledge on science education, integration and the application of new methods; to transfer good practices; to analyse and assimilate the possibilities and methods of using the science laboratory and interactive educational tools through field observation visits in other partner countries, observing inquiry-based teaching methods and activities; to develop a variety of teaching methods and forms (inquiry-based learning, project-based learning, educational coaching, creative thinking, collaborative action, etc. ) by taking part in 2 courses at the Esmovia Training Centre (Valencia, Spain) ("4 Tools for innovative education"; "Positive education: happy schools").
According to the objective and priorities set in the Strategy 2013-2022 of the European Development Programme, it was important to: 1) achieve a higher level of quality in education; 2) strengthen the organisation of science and integrated science education by expanding the variety of learning methods, forms and activities, adapting and modernising the learning environment, and making the best use of the already available non-traditional education spaces; 3) strengthen the motivation of children with learning difficulties by using non-traditional educational methods. The following areas for improvement have also been identified: science teaching in primary and secondary classrooms; feedback in the educational process; cooperation between teachers of different subjects as a prerequisite for integrated education; diversity of teaching and learning methods to increase motivation and self-directed learning for students with learning difficulties. To meet these needs, it was necessary to upgrade teachers' competences, as there was a shortage of teachers who were prepared to work in integrated science education (which the school started to implement on 1 September 2018) and to use a modern science laboratory.