The main objective of the project was to support the social inclusion of Ukrainian war refugee pupils through creative, learner-centered methods. We aimed to empower teachers and youth workers in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania by providing them with effective, practical tools to foster inclusive classroom environments. Specifically, we sought to collect and test inclusive educational practices, enhance the professional skills of educators, and create sustainable teaching resources—such as a handbook and video materials—that can be used both locally and across Europe. Ultimately, the project aimed to reduce exclusion, promote empathy, and strengthen the integration of refugee students into their new school communities.
We applied for this project in response to the urgent need to support the social inclusion of Ukrainian war refugee students in the Baltic countries' school systems. Following the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, schools in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania experienced a sudden and significant increase in refugee pupils. Teachers and educators lacked clear, practical guidance on how to create inclusive environments and respond effectively to the emotional, linguistic, and educational needs of these children. At the same time, local communities faced growing challenges in maintaining social cohesion. Our project aimed to address these issues by equipping educators with creative, tested tools and training for inclusion, promoting both student well-being and community resilience.