Accredited project for mobility of learners and staff in vocational education and training

Summary

Lier videregående skole was awarded the European Innovative Teaching Award for its strong focus on democracy and citizenship education in vocational training. Through international collaboration, student-led initiatives, and the integration of European values into school life, the project empowers learners to become active citizens and promotes inclusive, value-based education as a strategic element of Erasmus+ implementation. 

“Tolerance, intercultural understanding are necessary competences in a diverse society. Erasmus+ is an important tool for preventing polarisation and raising awareness that we are part of something bigger than a national citizenship.” 

Topic(s) addressed 

• Democracy
• Citizenship education
• Student participation
• European values
• Intercultural understanding
• Inclusion of learners with fewer opportunities
• The role of vocational education in strengthening democratic engagement

Target group(s)  

• VET students
• Teachers
• Learners with fewer opportunities
• School leaders

Methodologies used 

The project adopts innovative, learner-centred approaches by embedding democratic participation into everyday school life. Student council members co-create content with peers across Europe, promoting active citizenship. Blended mobility activities and digital workshops enable entire classes to engage in international collaboration, not just those who travel. Cross-curricular tasks connect Erasmus+ themes with core subjects, while preparation activities include critical reflection on European values, fostering deeper engagement and a lasting impact on democratic awareness. 

Innovation environment 

The project creates dynamic learning environments by combining physical mobility with digital collaboration, enabling students to engage across borders before, during, and after their mobility activities. Classrooms extend into European workplaces, where students experience democratic participation in real-life vocational contexts. Digital platforms such as Teams and eTwinning are used for joint projects, ensuring inclusive participation. These environments foster reflection, critical thinking, and collaboration - skills essential for both professional development and democratic engagement. 

Teachers’ role 

Teachers play a central role by integrating Erasmus+ themes into vocational subjects and guiding students through cross-curricular projects on democracy and citizenship. They co-develop digital workshops with European partners and use real-world mobility experiences to enrich classroom teaching. Many take part in job-shadowing to gain insight into inclusive practices and democratic education abroad, adapting these approaches to their own teaching. Their active involvement ensures that innovation is firmly embedded in pedagogy, curriculum, and overall school development.

Impact and output 

The project’s innovative approaches have strengthened students’ civic awareness, critical thinking, and engagement in democratic processes. VET students report increased confidence, cultural understanding, and a sense of responsibility - skills valued in both society and the workplace. Interest in student council work has grown, and Erasmus+ themes are now embedded in vocational subjects. Teachers apply new methods acquired abroad, and the school has gained national recognition as a model for integrating democratic education into vocational training. 

Learn more about the project