Course Schedule

Core Activities

Day-by-Day Exploration: Each day offers a unique combination of insightful school visits, engaging cultural activities, and educational sessions to deepen your understanding and application of innovative and inclusive teaching practices in the Icelandic educational system.

Day 1:

Introduction to STPM, education and building connections

Begin with an active, joyful introduction to the STPM approach, highlighting Iceland’s innovation in education, sustainability, and technology. Explore Iceland’s unique cultural and educational heritage through "The Icelandic Corner" and connect with new European colleagues through fun ice breaking activities and a relaxed social event.

Day 2:

Exploring Icelandic education – methodologies and innovations

Dive into the heart of the Icelandic educational approach with an engaging mix of interactive activities and discussions. Begin with a warm-up using the Smart Teachers Play More (STPM) methodology, setting the tone for exploration and collaboration.

Discover the curriculum framework, expectations for teachers and students, and the innovative teaching and evaluation methods used in Icelandic schools. Explore key practices such as Project-Based Learning (PBL), formative assessment, and practitioner research.

We will also reflect on and introduce Icelandic methods such as Byrjendalæsi (early reading), Hjallastefna (gender equality in schools), and "Let’s Light the Spark"—a project in the Vestmannaeyjar community that combines reading and well-being.

Day 3:

Immersive school visit – Experiencing Icelandic education first-hand

Participants will spend a full day visiting an Icelandic school, matched with a teacher who aligns with their own teaching stage or subject. This is an exciting opportunity to experience the Icelandic school system firsthand, observing its unique approach to education.

Teachers will gain insights into the value placed on practical subjects and how Icelandic heritage is deeply woven into daily learning. One key highlight will be seeing how the Icelandic weather and outdoor heritage come to life, as children go outside twice a day, regardless of the weather.

Teachers will gain valuable insights into how practical subjects such as woodwork, design, textiles, home economics, and art are integrated into the Icelandic curriculum and heritage. You will see how the Icelandic weather has shaped the culture, as all Icelanders grow up experiencing outdoor break times and swimming lessons, no matter the weather.

Day 4:

Insights into Icelandic education and sustainability

A general visit to one of Reykjavík’s newest schools, integrating kindergarten, primary, and secondary education. Discover how practical and academic subjects are equally valued, inclusion is a priority, and well-being is integrated into the curriculum.   Witness how outdoor activities rooted in Icelandic heritage build resilience. Explore how democracy and sustainability thinking shape the school community in a positive way.

Day 5:

Outdoor learning and experiential education

Participants will visit an outdoor classroom in an Icelandic forest, where they will observe how children explore and learn in nature. This unique setting provides an opportunity to understand and experience key elements of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on quality education, climate action, and well-being. Teachers will gain firsthand insights into how academic objectives are seamlessly integrated into outdoor activities through games, interactive methods, and real-world engagement.

Core Smart Teachers Play More activities will also be introduced, highlighting how active, playful methods can effectively enhance both learning and well-being.

Day 6:

Improve your teaching – reflection and vision

This day is all about turning inspiration into actionable steps to enhance our teaching.  Teachers will have the opportunity to share successful methods and activities from their own practice as well as reflect on the week´s experiences.

Through vision planning activities, they will reflect on what they’ve observed in Icelandic schools and experienced throughout the course, and explore practical strategies to adapt these innovative methods to their own educational context.

The focus is on personal and professional growth, inspired by the insights gained throughout the course. Participants will engage in active listening exercises to share experiences and exchange ideas with peers, fostering a deeper understanding of how to integrate new approaches into their teaching practices.

Day 7:

A mindful reflection in Icelandic hot tubs

Immerse yourself in an Icelandic well-being tradition with a visit to a local thermal swimming pool and hot tubs. This mindful, screen-free experience rooted in Icelandic heritage offers a sustainable way to relax, reflect, and make future plans. Foster a sense of calm, focus and gratitude as you conclude the week in this unique cultural setting.