We focused on improving the quality of the school's work and the competences of our employees, creating development opportunities for students and teachers. We wanted to improve language skills for more efficient interpersonal communication, acquire new teaching tools and methods (CLIL and ICT, mediation techniques) in order to prepare students to function in 21st century Europe. The staff training was intended to improve qualifications: acquiring knowledge and materials for conducting lessons in English, getting rid of the language barrier, increasing language competences thanks to conversations in a natural environment, we wanted our teachers to establish contacts with teachers from European schools in order to cooperate on various levels, giving our institution a European dimension, shaping attitudes tolerance and constructive dialogue. The project was also intended to create an opportunity combating school failure by acquiring good practices used in Europe. Moreover, by implementing our project, we wanted to raise awareness of lifelong learning, making it easier to plan the future career of our students.
The project entitled "Open School" was developed for 12 teachers of King Sigismund Augustus 6th Secondary School in Białystok and is a continuation of the previous project entitled "International school". Our teachers took part in international courses and trainings, seminars, workshops, field projects and educational visits. The program of project activities enabled them to learn specific aspects of education systems in the Scandinavian countries, understand the principles of Global Education, learn the "Design Thinking" methodology, use innovative ICT technologies and non-traditional methodologies. Our secondary school focuses on the holistic development of our students (14-19 years old), preparing them to function in modern Europe. During the project, the main focus was on achieving set goals, leading to increased teacher involvement in improving the school and local community. Learning new tools and methods was also emphasized. These efforts enhanced teaching quality, developed essential skills, and integrated best practices into school activities.