Strengthening Teachers' Education and Competencies – The Path to a Better Preschool

Summary

The project helped teachers and children build the skills they need for the future. Teachers improved their digital competences and learned how to use digital tools in meaningful ways. Children developed digital skills without spending more time in front of screens. They learned through games, educational robots and hands-on STEAM activities. These changes are now part of our curriculum and everyday teaching, supporting the development of key competences from an early age.  

"Erasmus+ gave us inspiration and the confidence to try new things. These have now become part of our everyday work, and we can see the difference. Learning has become more engaging, meaningful, and fun."  

Topic(s) addressed

• STEAM
• Digital competences
• Learning through play
• Integration of innovative methods 

Target group(s)  

• Preschool children (aged 3–6) and kindergarten teachers. 

Methodologies used

The project introduced the STEAM approach into everyday kindergarten education. Activities combined maths, science, technology, creativity, and play. Children learned through hands-on exploration and experiments. They actively worked together, asked questions, and tested ideas. Activities developed mathematical thinking, scientific inquiry, creativity, communication, collaboration, and digital skills. Teachers used observation and reflection to adapt learning to children´s needs. New methods gained through Erasmus+ training were shared with all staff and integrated into the school curriculum, ensuring long-term impact.  

Innovation environment

The kindergarten created an environment that supports innovation in everyday learning. STEAM activities became part of the school curriculum and regular classroom practice. Teachers worked together to plan, test, and improve new activities and shared the knowledge gained through Erasmus+ training. The school invested in sustainable digital resources, including Bee-Bots, light panels, children's cameras, and educational materials, which are used regularly throughout the school. This whole-school approach ensured that innovative teaching methods became part of daily practice and continued beyond the duration of the project. 

Teachers’ role

Teachers played a key role in introducing innovation. After Erasmus+ training, they integrated the STEAM approach into daily teaching and designed new hands-on learning activities. They improved their digital competences and used new digital tools to support children's learning. Teachers regularly shared ideas, materials, and good practice with colleagues. They observed children's progress, adapted activities to their needs, and created a positive and supportive learning environment that encouraged curiosity, confidence, and active participation. 

Impact and output

The project transformed teaching and learning at the kindergarten. Children developed key competences through active STEAM activities and became more curious, independent, and confident learners. Teachers improved their digital and pedagogical skills and shared new approaches with all staff. The school invested in new learning resources and integrated STEAM into its curriculum. The results continue to benefit current and future children, teachers, and families. 

Learn more about the project