The aim of the project was to strengthen our school as a place where democracy is lived. In order to take different aspects into account, we took four different training courses for two colleagues each. Democracy is a dynamic and constant task that will always have a global component, especially in the field of environmental protection and nature conservation. That is why we chose a course in this area. In addition, it is necessary for us teachers to think outside the box and leave our curricular comfort zone, to deal with innovative approaches. Finland is very well positioned in this area, which is why we gave colleagues an insight into the educational landscape there. In addition, there were two courses to develop key competences that are extremely important for democracy education. These include creativity, critical thinking, communication, collaboration and problem-solving strategies in the classroom.
We are taking on the task of counteracting the decline in student numbers and making our school fit for the future in a difficult environment for further education colleges. For this purpose, the school development group identifies focal points of work and instructed the coordinator team to propose suitable mobilities. The OSW is attended by students from the most diverse social, cultural and ethnic backgrounds. We not only want to impart knowledge, but also educate our students to become responsible citizens in an increasingly complex world. This includes dealing consciously and sensitively with diversity as well as promoting empathy, respect, esteem and tolerance. We also want to encourage our students to take on responsibility and commitment not only in the school context, but also in the state and society. We understand school as a place of living democracy and in this sense we would also like to try to involve students even more in shaping their educational pathway.