Inclusion under tolerance

Summary

The project Inclusion under Tolerance was awarded the European Innovative Teaching Award for its outstanding commitment to fostering inclusive societies through education, dialogue, and mutual respect. By promoting diversity and combating discrimination, the initiative embodies the core values of tolerance and human dignity, making a lasting impact on communities and inspiring positive change across borders.

"This project showed me that inclusion isn’t just an idea - it’s something we live every day, together. I’ve met people from different cultures, and we’ve learned to listen, share, and grow. Tolerance starts with understanding, and now I truly believe that our differences are not barriers, but bridges to a more connected world.”

Topic(s) addressed

• Promoting inclusive education practices
• Supporting learners from ethnic minority and socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds
• Reducing early school leaving and absenteeism
• Fostering positive attitudes and mental wellbeing

Target group(s)  

• Students aged 5–16 

Methodologies used

The project introduced innovative teaching and learning approaches by promoting peer-to-peer learning, experiential activities, and cross-cultural exchanges. Students took part in real-life projects such as book donations, tolerance-themed art, and language activities that encouraged empathy and collaboration. The use of digital tools, creative workshops, and student-led initiatives fostered active participation, critical thinking, and emotional development. Teachers applied inclusive strategies tailored to diverse learning needs, creating a more supportive and engaging environment that reflected real-world social challenges.

Innovation environment

The project created inclusive, flexible, and student-centred learning environments that supported innovation by encouraging collaboration, creativity, and active engagement. Learning extended beyond traditional classrooms into community settings, virtual platforms, and international exchanges. Students worked in mixed teams, using digital tools and interactive methods to explore topics such as tolerance and diversity. Teachers fostered safe, respectful spaces where every voice was valued, enabling experimentation, open dialogue, and peer learning. These environments empowered students to take ownership of their learning and develop essential social and emotional skills.

Teachers’ role

Teachers and educators advanced innovative teaching and learning by acting as facilitators of inclusion and active engagement. They designed interdisciplinary, student-led activities that fostered tolerance, empathy, and critical thinking. Through collaboration with international peers, they exchanged best practices and adapted methods to meet diverse classroom needs. By integrating digital tools, real-life scenarios, and emotional learning, they created dynamic environments that empowered students to engage deeply and meaningfully with the project’s themes.

Impact and output

The innovative teaching and learning processes fostered greater student engagement, empathy, and intercultural understanding. Students developed key social and emotional skills such as tolerance, communication, and collaboration. The project helped reduce prejudices and promote inclusive attitudes, contributing to a more respectful school climate. Teachers reported increased motivation and improved classroom dynamics, while cross-cultural exchanges broadened perspectives for all participants. Overall, the project led to lasting behavioural and mindset changes that support diversity and social cohesion both within and beyond the classroom.

Learn more about the project