Turkish Participants Impressions

  • On 18th, 19th, and 24th May 2021 we have gathered once again but differently this time.

     

    Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, the Slovenian team had to organize the mobility virtually. Even though we could not meet face to face the content of the virtual mobility once again proved us sharing our experiences and our expertise with each other is so important and enriching.

     

    The very first day being welcomed by our friends from Primary School Ljudevita Pivka was lovely after the very last international meeting for most of us which we had just before the beginning of the Covid-19 Pandemic in Portugal. Following the coordinators' meeting where we have met virtually in small groups, gathering altogether and being welcomed with the performance of Heart Beat Band and virtual school tour felt just like entering Primary School Ljudevita Pivka like in reality and made us have emotional moments.

     

    Learning about the Slovenian Regular and Special School Sytems was so interesting. Later on, hearing about the efforts of IRIS Centre from Ljubljana which specializes in the education of blind and visually impaired persons was an eye-opener literally. For our school, their experiences were so enriching and new for us.

     

    The second day was more focused on other institutions operating in Slovenia related to special education. Hearing about the Centre for Training of the Physically Handicapped Young People Kamnik, CIRIUS Centre from Vipava, Hearing and Speech Centre Maribor, and Centre for Vocational Education in Ptuj ensured us that Slovenia has a long and concrete traditional as well on special education. Also, the warm welcome and good wishes of the Mayor of Ptuj Ms. Nuška Gajšek were motivating for us to wait for the face-to-face meeting one day in Ptuj.

     

    On the last day, we heard more about the methods used in special education in Slovenia. Halliwick Concept, therapies with the participation of animals, etc. Ms. Tamara Tomašič’s personal story of being a special education teacher and then taking over the family farm to turn it into a special education support facility was a heartwarming story. We once again thanked the people with big hearts to put everything they have in order to contribute to society.

     

    Lastly seeing the natural beauties of Slovenia and taking a piece of a recipe from the traditional cuisine has brightened our day and motivated us to bake cinnamon smelling Potica to dream about our possible future trip to Slovenia.

     

    Thank you, dear Slovenian partners!!!