The objective of the projects was to enhance children participation in democratic life, their knowledge of common values and support their engagement. We managed to do that by creating an innovative teaching methodology, that uses music as an educational tool to promote civic education. In this way, the project aimed at improving the quality of the learning experience for school pupils between 6-14 years by using an attractive and inclusive language, music, to promote shared values. The project also aimed at strengthening the capacity of educators and schools to promote common European values, inclusion and active participation through innovative educational practices, particularly through the use of Music as an educational tool. By testing the methodology in real school contexts, the project also aimed at generating a practical, transferable approach that can be sustainably applied beyond the project duration.
The project was developed to address shared needs identified by partner organisations in three European countries, in particular the lack of inclusive, innovative and values-based educational approaches able to meaningfully engage young people. The partners identified common challenges, such as low levels of active participation, limited access to methodologies combining artistic expression and civic education, and the need to strengthen educators’ competences in working with diversity and democratic values. In a broader European context marked by declining trust in democratic systems and weakened attachment to EU common values, the project aims to foster active participation from an early age, promote positive attitudes towards European values, increase awareness of diversity, and strengthen children’s transversal skills, especially social, civic and intercultural competences and critical thinking. Implemented in the school environment, the project promotes participatory and inclusive citizenship education approaches and the development of a common educational tool able to overcome linguistic, cultural and social barriers, ensuring access for all children, particularly those with fewer opportunities and disabilities.