Based on the needs analysis, the project was designed to achieve several clear and practical goals:The main aim was to improve environmental literacy among students, especially those with special educational needs (SEN). The findings showed that students had very limited understanding of key environmental concepts like climate change or the greenhouse effect, so the project sought to build this knowledge in a more accessible and engaging way. Another goal was to support students’ social and emotional development through nature-based activities. Connecting students with nature improved their well-being, helping them experience the calming effects of the natural environment and strengthening their interpersonal skills. For teachers, the goal was to develop their pedagogical and practical skills, particularly in delivering environmental education to SEN students. This included equipping them with more effective, structured, and hands-on teaching methods, especially in outdoor environments. At the organisational level, the project aimed to strengthen the capacity of partner institutions to plan and implement high-quality environmental education, such as the ability to organize outdoor activities.
We applied for this project to address the clear need for more inclusive, equitable, and experience-based education for students with special educational needs (SEN). Currently, many SEN students are educated in closed environments, which limits their opportunities to explore nature, learn through direct experience, and develop social and emotional skills. Our needs analysis showed that SEN learners require more accessible participation in international programmes like Erasmus+, as they are often underrepresented. We also identified a need for innovative environmental education approaches that support holistic development combining academic learning with social and emotional well-being. Through this project, we aimed to open school environments, promoted outdoor and experiential learning, and equipped teachers with effective methods. At the same time, we aligned our objectives with the European Green Deal priorities, ensuring relevance and sustainability. We created accessible, shareable outputs, we also addressed the need for broader impact and long-term use across European educational institutions. Moreover by strengthening environmental education, we were able to provide our students with green skills such as love of nature.