Before implementing the project, we set goals that reflect the needs of the school, as well as the European Internationalization Strategy. One of the most important goals was to acquire professional abilities and improve practical skills in one's field. This was closely related to the focus of the receiving organization, so the goal was also to learn about solar systems in another country. We also wanted to strengthen international cooperation with the partner school. We expected that the Zadar school would also sign up for the project, so we would be able to compare the results of our pupils in Zadar and their pupils here. Unfortunately, they have not managed to get the project yet. Another goal was to improve language skills. The main language of communication was English, which the participants had to use at work, and thus they improved especially in professional terminology but also in other areas. They were also supposed to acquire basic communication skills in the Croatian language. An important step was the involvement of students with limited opportunities and talented students. We also aimed to use ECVET principles. All targets were met despite the problems associated with the pandemic.
We applied for the project for several reasons. On the one hand, we wanted to build on successful projects from previous periods - as part of the Erasmus+ program, our students already participated in internships in Croatia in the Challenge 2016 and 2018. Successful previous internships had a great impact on the participants and the sending organization, improved the reputation of the school and ensured the attractiveness of studying at our school. The 2020 challenge was therefore only a logical continuation.On the other hand, as part of the new challenge, we wanted to give an opportunity to talented students, but also to students with limited opportunities who otherwise would not be able to go abroad. Furthermore, we wanted to enable them to try a job in another country, get to know the Croatian education system, culture, history, customs, language and interesting places in the country. Last but not least, the reason was the effort to help more timid students overcome their shyness and not be afraid to communicate.