Erasmus+ Nurses S2J

Summary

The Erasmus+ mobility project was designed for eight nursing students from Institut Saint-Joseph Sainte-Julienne (S2J), offering them a unique opportunity to complete a 4-week hospital internship at the CHRU (Regional University Hospital Center) in Tours, France. This initiative aimed to expose the students to advanced healthcare practices and services not readily available in Belgium. 

"Working in intensive care allows me to strengthen my technical skills while learning to operate in an environment where every action can be decisive. The solidarity and mutual support that reigns within the healthcare team inspires me deeply, creating an ideal environment for progress and learning." - Participating student

Topic(s) addressed

Developing professional skills, exposing students and teachers to different care techniques and training tools, integration of European students into our school, ensuring openness to the concept of mobility within the EC. 

Target group(s)

Eight students from S2J Ste Julienne.  

Methodologies used 

Pharmacology courses emphasised the use of International Non-proprietary Names (INNs) for medications, rather than country-specific trade names, both in theoretical instruction and during internships. Practical experiences gained during the mobility were shared in scheduled sessions with third-year students, helping to strengthen their critical thinking skills when comparing newly encountered procedures with those taught at school. A total of 59 respondents reported a positive impact of the Erasmus+ project at our institution. They highlighted the discovery of new care procedures, some of which have the potential to enhance their professional practice. The quality of education at our school was also reinforced, as students demonstrated the ability to critically analyse new techniques - recognising similarities and differences - while upholding best practices and procedural compliance. 

Innovation environment

The project increased awareness of the European scope of the hospital nursing diploma, highlighting opportunities for students to work in specialised services available elsewhere in Europe but not in Belgium. It also included participation in a practical workshop organised at IFSI Tours, adding a valuable educational dimension. As part of the exchange, our school hosted two students from IFSI Tours, who completed placements in our partner hospitals.

The results of the mobility activity were shared with school management and the entire teaching staff, helping to foster a strong Erasmus+ identity within the institution. Specific techniques in paediatric oncology were presented to students in the third year of complementary studies, while "post-Erasmus lunchtimes" were organised to allow teachers and students to share their professional experiences through themed presentations. A “road trip” video was produced, and photos of selected candidates were displayed within the school, further promoting engagement and the visibility of the initiative. 

Teachers’ role

Preparation for the mobility activity included pre-departure sessions covering cultural and healthcare system differences, language support, and practical information about the stay in Tours. 

During the placement, students carried out real-life hospital tasks in various advanced medical departments under the supervision of the CHRU hospital team. Learning outcomes were documented in personal portfolios and assessed using competency frameworks recognised in both Belgium and France. 

Upon return, participants shared their experiences and insights through presentations and information sessions with peers and faculty, helping to disseminate the lessons learned throughout the institution. 

Impact and output

The project had a notable impact at multiple levels. For students, it boosted professional confidence and increased their readiness for employment across European borders, while also confirming their interest in pursuing international mobility for further education or career opportunities.

At the institutional level, it enhanced the European dimension of S2J’s nursing programme and raised its visibility through internal communication such as newsletters, presentations, and digital platforms, as well as external actions - including open days and engagement with professional networks.

For partners, the project strengthened collaboration with CHRU Tours and laid the groundwork for potentially expanding future mobility initiatives.

Learn more about the project

Video