The main goal of the project was to improve performance of special needs students of all partners schools by using various art therapies. We wanted to develop their motor, cognitive and social competences, but also empower students to express themselves, gain self-confidence to use their potential in academic, social and everyday life. We also wanted to reduce our students' stress related to the learning process, prevent early school leaving due to lower achievement and encourage students to build on their strengths during the learning process. Art therapy methods turned out to be perfect because of easy adjustment to the level of development and abilities. The second, but equally important reason was to increase the knowledge, skills and competences of teachers from partner schools in the use of various methods of broadly understood art therapy. We wanted to exchange our experience and the possibility of cooperation with foreign partners increased the dynamics and attractiveness of the project.
We applied to improve school performance of students with special needs (ages 10–20) by using art therapy to develop their motor, cognitive, emotional, and social skills. Many of our students face challenges such as low self-esteem, anxiety, communication difficulties, and a lack of motivation due to limited progress despite great effort. Through this project, we aim to help them express themselves, feel successful, and strengthen their confidence by using creative methods adapted to their abilities. The project also improves everyday life skills, reduces learning-related stress, and supports inclusion in the classroom and wider community. Teachers and school staff gain new tools and insights by learning from partners in Poland, Latvia, and Croatia, strengthening professional capacity and enriching school programs. Key outcomes include 5 international LTT activities, over 100 students involved in regular art therapy, and a multilingual manual of good practices in special needs education.