DABA Hub - Nordplus Junior project 2024-2026A Mobility Trip to Stavanger

Monday and Tuesday

March 31, April 1

We are thrilled to announce that our first student and teacher mobility program in

Norway, as part of the Nordplus "DABA Hub" project, has officially begun!

After a smooth connecting flight, we arrived in Stavanger, where we were

welcomed by sunshine and the crisp northern air.

On our first day, we enjoyed team-building activities and explored Sandnes, a

charming town located next to Stavanger.

Tuesday started early at Norlights Montessori School in Stavanger. Upon arrival,

we engaged in a team-building exercise involving LEGO construction and

icebreakers to get to know one another. This was followed by a guided tour of the

school and a lunch prepared by the students.

Our students then took part in teacher-led activities focused on Logo and board

game design. We created four unique games centred on ecology and even had

the chance to test them! Though still it is work in progress, the experience

provided valuable insight into the game design process.

Next, students Liza and Nikola led a debate workshop. They introduced the group

to the roles of each speaker in a debate, after which our international team

debated the topic: "Should plastic packaging be banned?" The students took the

role of judges and chose four best speakers of the improvised game.

Later, we visited a Norwegian public school, where the headmaster introduced us

to the incredible world of learning in a well-equipped Norwegian school, designed

to meet the unique needs of every community member.

The day continued with a visit to a local farm on a mountaintop, where we

encountered alpacas, pigs, chickens, peacocks, rabbits, and sheep.

After a short rest at the hotel, we returned to school for an International Culture

Evening. Each participating country showcased its traditions through songs,

poems, and presentations. Schools also brought traditional food, which we later

shared and enjoyed together. What an explosion of creativity it was! Our students

demonstrated their cultural knowledge by singing their national anthem,

performing traditional dances, reciting poetry, and organising interactive activities

on national cuisine and customs.

Our Norwegian hosts treated us to a delicious dinner of meatballs, boiled

potatoes, and peas. We practised our self-catering skills, and helped to wash the

dishes and put the rooms in order after the event. After a long but exciting day,

we returned to the hotel, eagerly looking forward to what tomorrow will bring!

Wednesday and Thursday

April 2-3

Wednesday and Thursday of the mobility trip were dedicated to beach cleaning

activities and exploring the benefits and drawbacks of the oil industry.

We learned about the impact of microplastics on nature, participated in cleaning

the seashore, and collected a huge amount of waste, even though it had initially

seemed clean and tidy. We enjoyed the experience, and our students, Liza and

Nicole, were even interviewed by a local newspaper.

On Thursday, we travelled to downtown Stavanger, took a walking tour around

the city, and visited the Oil Museum. We learned about the impact of oil discovery

on the economy and environment of the region and the country as a whole. We

also explored the challenges and tragic incidents associated with the industry and

closely examined the oil drilling process.

The students strengthened their friendships and engaged in meaningful

communication. The hospitable Parent Association of Stavanger Montessori

School prepared a delicious dinner for us. We deeply appreciate the days and the

valuable insights they brought!

Friday

April 4

Today was one of the most beautiful days of our trip to Stavanger—we visited

Mount Preikestolen, which rises 604 meters above the Lysefjord.

It took us two hours to climb up the steep mountain. Along the way, we marvelled

at the beauty of nature and explored the geological changes that have shaped

the landscape over thousands of years.

The famous plateau was shaped by glaciers over 10,000 years ago and was

likely used as a lookout point by early settlers.

We saw traces of ancient glaciers carving through the rock, leaving behind cracks

and holes—like scars on the "faces" of the rugged terrain.

The hike was a challenge for many, but the breath-taking views and the

meaningful conversations shared between students, teachers, and the parents

who volunteered to support us made every step worthwhile!

After the hike, we gathered for a warm and comforting project closing event at

school. The barbecue, prepared by the head of the school, teachers, students,

and parents, was the perfect way to celebrate our journey. Our students brought

energy and joy to the event with their dance and music performances. Awarded

with certificates and filled with positivity, we are now ready to head home.

We sincerely thank the head of Montessori Norlights School Josef Berg,

teachers, administration, students, and parents for their heartfelt hospitality. We

look forward to welcoming you in Latvia and Estonia!

Saturday

April 5

Good bye, Stavanger! Yesterday was the last day of our mobility trip within the

Nordplus DABA Hub project. We enjoyed every single moment of our cooperation

with students, teachers and parents from Norway, Latvia and Estonia.

We asked the students for feedback, and here is what Ariana and Martins wrote,

"When people from different countries meet and spend time together, something

special happens. They learn about each other’s cultures, share ideas, and often

find out they’re not so different after all.

Exchange programs are a great way to build these connections. Students get the

chance to work together, talk, and make real friendships that cross borders. It’s

not just about learning facts—it’s about understanding people.

Good communication between countries helps break down stereotypes and

brings more kindness and cooperation into the world. In the end, it’s these simple

connections that make a big difference."

We sincerely thank the host Norlights Montessoriskole Stavanger for hospitality,

all participants for their contribution, activity and care!