Through the implementation of the project, we aimed to create an inclusive learning environment in the school, deliver engaging lessons in which all students actively participate, improve academic progress, and enhance motivation for learning by developing psychopedagogical and digital competences among teaching staff. Additionally, we aimed to improve the quality of teaching and facilitate the educational and social inclusion of students by acquiring knowledge, skills, and methodological communication and relational competences in line with European standards.
The idea of writing the Erasmus+ project "Open Gates" stemmed from the challenges faced by the school: student migration to other schools, marginalization, bullying, low grades in English, lack of engagement in school and extracurricular activities. The development of this project was preceded by a series of preliminary activities, including meetings and discussions with members of the school community, consultation of statistical data, and surveys to identify the needs of the final beneficiaries and the community in line with the organizational strategy. The next step was to determine how to address the issue and define the project writing team. After funding approval, valuable support was received for project implementation, both from the school leadership (providing suitable space for implementation team activities and document storage, as well as the necessary supplies and equipment) and from teachers interested in professional development, exchange of experiences, transfer of best practices, and improving the quality of school education.