Through the implementation of this specific program we aimed at a holistic approach to environmental problems. We aimed to expand teachers' knowledge and adopt innovative educational processes and good practices, in order to transmit the principles of ecology through the lessons. We also sought the smooth integration of students from vulnerable groups by giving them a role in the actions of the program and making them realize the importance of their contribution.More generally, we sought a shift of the school towards the environment and sustainability, reducing the ecological footprint of the school and educating students to be active citizens who realize their place in the world, the importance of their own contribution and the value of solidarity, equality and ecological sensitivity.
Our school is the largest High School in the prefecture of Rethymnon, with 431 students and a total of 50 teachers. Our city is touristic and the rapidly developing construction has affected the natural environment. At the same time, the modern way of life has distanced children from nature, with all the problems this entails. In our school every year an effort is made to deal with problems of social exclusion and inequalities through the implementation of programs that seek the active participation of students, the cultivation of critical thinking and the development of moral, social and ecological consciousness.These activities aim at experiential teaching and the integration of sustainability principles into school and daily life. The results, however, were not the desired ones, we think due to the insufficient training of the teachers. For this reason we implemented this specific project, expecting to acquire the techniques and tools necessary to make our efforts successful.