Saturday, 3 May 2025
First Day of the Erasmus and Twinning Week – A Warm Welcome to Our Friends from Palermo
Today marked the beginning of our Erasmus and Twinning Week at our school, as we welcomed our first guests – the students and teachers from our twin school, Garibaldi in Palermo.
The day started with a cultural visit to the Archaeological Museum of Brauron, where we admired unique ancient findings and statues, sacred offerings, and everyday objects that offered us a journey through the history of Attica and highlighted the deep connection of our region with nature and tradition.
In the evening, under the starry sky and next to the sea, we all celebrated together at the port of Rafina. It was a magical night full of music, singing and dancing, with all students participating enthusiastically, building bridges of friendship and cultural exchange.
We warmly thank the parents of our students for their continuous support and for the delicious treats they kindly prepared for tonight’s gathering.
We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to the Municipality of Rafina–Pikermi for providing our transportation and for actively supporting the school’s international initiatives.
Our thanks go as well to the Nautical Sports Club of Rafina “Alkyon,” who welcomed our group with great kindness, as well as to Mr. Petros Vasileiou, President Ms. Chatzi, and Mr. Nikos Vasileiou for their support.
We look forward to continuing this week’s activities, building friendships, exchanging experiences, and honouring the value of European cooperation.
One week is enough to make us… one big family!
Sunday, 4 May 2025
2nd Day of the Erasmus and Twinning Week – Culture, Encounters and Tradition
The second day of the Erasmus and Twinning Week was filled with experiences, emotions and new connections.
With great joy, we reunited with our friends from Turkey (Isparta Anadolu Lisesi), Latvia (Aizupes Pamatskola) and Germany (Arsu Academy). In the afternoon, we welcomed for the first time the students and teachers of IC Statale Carlo del Balzo from Italy.
Together with our twin school, Garibaldi Lyceum of Palermo, we set off for a special visit to Schinias and the impressive archaeological site of Rhamnous.
There, our dear colleague Antonis Lazarīs from Rafina General Lyceum – to whom we extend our heartfelt thanks – offered an insightful and meaningful guided tour that highlighted the historical and cultural value of the site.
Rhamnous, a unique landscape where nature and history coexist in harmony, perfectly reflected the core of our programme “Protect Your Nature, Protect Your Future”: the need to know, respect and protect our natural and cultural heritage.
Our tour continued at the Marathon Tumulus, where students had the opportunity to connect with another significant chapter of local history, reflecting on the role of memory and peace in the course of nations.
In the afternoon, we returned to prepare for the Cretan Feast organised for us with great care and affection by the Cretan Association of Rafina–Pikermi.
The evening was truly unique, held at the historic Oxyro of Rafina, where participants from all countries met again—this time accompanied by live Cretan music and an atmosphere of genuine celebration.
Words are not enough to describe the warmth and hospitality of the Association:
traditional treats, freshly cooked “gamopilaf,” raki for the adults, singing, dancing, an introduction to Cretan traditions, and above all, the authentic, generous Cretan spirit of care and affection offered by every member of the Association.
It was an unforgettable evening—one we will always cherish—a night of friendship, culture and genuine human connection.
There are moments when words are simply not enough, because it is the heart that speaks.
The sense of togetherness and shared joy is the most meaningful lesson of all.
Unique Erasmus moments, unique twinning moments between the Junior High School of Rafina and schools across Europe, shared with people who support us and truly care for us.
Monday, 5 May 2025
3rd Day of the Erasmus and Twinning Week
The third day of the Erasmus and Twinning Week was full of activity and meaningful experiences.
Early in the morning, we officially welcomed all visiting European groups to our school. The day began with the Mayor of Rafina–Pikermi, Mrs. Dimitra Tseva, greeting the students and teachers from the partner schools and speaking warmly with all participants.
The official programme of the mobility then began. The Deputy Mayor for Education, Mrs. Katerina Lygou, addressed the audience and enthusiastically followed the students’ presentations, which highlighted their work and reflections on critical environmental issues.
Culture, environment, biodiversity, climate change and recycling were just a few of the themes presented in our school’s event hall, showcasing the students’ dedication to sustainability.
The programme continued outdoors. We walked to Marikes Beach, a natural landmark of Rafina, where we discussed the history and biodiversity of the area.
With the support of the A.C. Laskaridis Public Benefit Foundation, and under the guidance of Mr. Mysirlakis and Mr. Topaltsis, students took part in a beach-cleaning activity, as well as the recording and classification of collected waste.
A particularly significant part of the activity was the study of physicochemical parameters of seawater (such as pH, temperature, turbidity), the collection of algae for further analysis in the laboratory, and the recording of the floristic diversity of the dune ecosystem. It was an authentic, hands-on environmental learning experience.
Our walk continued to the Municipal Swimming Pool of Rafina, from where we boarded a bus to the magnificent site of Sounio. There, students and teachers from all participating countries admired the Temple of Poseidon and enjoyed the breathtaking sunset over the Aegean Sea.
Once again, we extend our sincere thanks to the Municipality of Rafina–Pikermi for its continuous support and assistance with transportation.
It was a day filled with collaboration, inspiration and meaningful contact with the natural environment—because when we protect our nature, we protect our future.
Protect your Nature, Protect your Future!
Tuesday, 6 May 2025
4th Day of the Erasmus and Twinning Week
The fourth day of the Erasmus and Twinning Week took us on a memorable journey to the island of Andros.
The day began very early in the morning, with all groups meeting at the port of Rafina at 7:00. Smiling and full of excitement, we boarded the Superferry, enjoying the hospitality of the crew and the beautiful route across the Aegean Sea.
The “Tinos” lounge of the ship was kindly offered to our group, providing excellent conditions for communication and collaboration during the voyage. With music and good spirits, the dancing soon began: students from all participating countries joined together to dance the “Zorba,” filling the ship with positive energy.
Captain Konstantinos Nikas warmly welcomed the teachers from all partner schools and offered them a special guided visit to the ship’s bridge—a unique experience for everyone.
The day continued on Andros with a visit to the Kairios Library and a walk through the narrow streets of Chora.
Mr. Nikos Chazapis, deputy coordinator of the Environmental Education Center of Korthi, delivered an engaging presentation on the island’s historical and cultural identity, connecting it with its natural beauty.
Special thanks are due to Mr. Nikos Bliziotis, grandfather of one of our students, who accompanied the group and offered a wonderful guided tour of the old town through his vivid personal stories.
During the return trip, members of our Erasmus–Twinning student team spoke with journalist Mr. Basantis and gave an interview for the online newspaper “En Andro,” sharing their impressions of the day and their overall experience of the mobility.
The day, however, did not end with our arrival back in Rafina.
Our energetic and enthusiastic group took part in a friendly football match between the Triglia Football Academy and our international Erasmus team.
Although the final score, 4–3, was not in our favour, teamwork, enthusiasm and fair play were the true “winners” of the evening, strengthening friendships and team spirit.
We warmly thank the Triglia Athletic Club for its excellent hospitality and collaboration in organising the match.
We also extend heartfelt thanks to the captain and crew of the Superferry for their kindness, warm welcome and the special touch they added to our trip.
Sincere thanks are also due to the Port Authority of Rafina, which covered a significant part of the transportation cost for our visit to this beautiful Cycladic island.
Another unforgettable day made possible thanks to the contribution of many people.
A day we will always remember—filled with island spirit, Greek hospitality, and European friendship.
Wednesday, 7 May 2025
5th Day of the Erasmus and Twinning Week
The fifth day of the Erasmus and Twinning Week was dedicated to nature, sustainability and experiential learning, aiming to bring our students closer to the values of environmental protection and self-sufficiency.
Our first stop was Megara, at “Perivolaki” (www.agale.gr
) – a wonderful educational agritourism site surrounded by nature, where we participated in four hands-on activities:
Beekeeping and honey tasting – students learned about the life of bees and their essential role in maintaining biodiversity.
Planting seasonal crops – with their hands in the soil, students cultivated patience and care, and learned how to create their own vegetable garden while respecting the environment and the characteristics of the Mediterranean ecosystem.
Composting – the group explored how organic waste can be transformed into valuable soil fertilizer.
Creative recycling using natural materials – an activity that highlighted the importance of reuse through artistic expression.
The day’s programme had been organised by our teacher, Mr. Giorgos Skarlatos, to whom we extend our warm thanks.
At Perivolaki we were welcomed by Mr. Christos Skarlatos, a former student of our school and brother of our teacher, and Ms. Varvara Kouneli, agronomist and coordinator of the centre’s educational activities.
It was a special moment for all of us to see a graduate of our school actively engaged in a place that inspires young people to love and protect nature, guided by experienced professionals.
In the afternoon, the programme continued with a cultural walk in the city of Nafplio, where students and accompanying teachers explored the history, architecture and cultural richness of Greece’s first capital.
Palamidi Fortress, Bourtzi, the old town’s narrow streets and its lively squares offered the perfect environment for exchanging experiences, relaxing and discovering the area’s heritage.
A day filled with knowledge, connection with the environment and meaningful experiences.
Because when we protect nature, we honour our past and build our future.
Protect your Nature, Protect your Future
Thursday, 8 May 2025
6th Day of the Erasmus and Twinning Week
The sixth day of the Erasmus and Twinning Week was perhaps the most demanding — but also the most exciting.
We began early in the morning once again, heading to the University Campus in Zografou.
Our first stop was the Zoological Museum of the Department of Biology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, where we explored rare and impressive specimens of the animal kingdom from Greece and around the world.
Through the study of biodiversity, both through fossilised and modern species, students were once again connected to the core theme of our Erasmus project “Protect your Nature, Protect your Future” — the need to protect life in all its forms and to link scientific knowledge with environmental awareness.
We then visited the Paleontology Museum of the Department of Geology, where we admired fossils of the Pikermi fauna, one of the most important paleontological collections of mainland Greece.
The exhibits helped students understand how the Earth’s past is connected to the present and the future, as the study of extinct species and past environments is essential for understanding climate change, which is already affecting our region.
The visit reminded us that knowledge of geological and natural history is a foundation for sustainability.
A particularly memorable moment followed: our students stepped into a university lecture hall and briefly experienced what it feels like to be a university student — a small but meaningful glimpse into academic life.
At midday, the programme shifted towards culture. We visited the Acropolis Museum and then walked up to the Sacred Rock of the Acropolis, where we admired the Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Erechtheion and reflected on the grandeur of ancient Athens.
The day concluded in true Erasmus spirit: with a circle of dance and song at sunset, under the shadow of the Acropolis.
Students and teachers from all participating countries danced together to “Zorba”, a moment of joy and friendship that brought everyone closer and created memories we will never forget.
It may have been the most exhausting day of the week —
but it was also the most magical.
We extend our heartfelt thanks once again to the Municipality of Rafina-Pikermi for supporting our plans and ensuring all necessary transport throughout this demanding day
Friday, 9 May 2025
7th Day of the Erasmus and Twinning Week – Closing Ceremony
All good things eventually come to an end…
The final day of the Erasmus and Twinning Week began early in the morning, as all European groups returned to our school for the last time.
Students from the partner schools followed the school timetable and rotated through four educational workshops, all prepared and delivered by the students of the 1st Gymnasio of Rafina.
1st Workshop – Coastal and Marine Biodiversity
Participants observed algae collected from Marikes Beach under a stereoscope, learned how to identify species using digital applications, and discussed the importance of protecting marine biodiversity.
2nd Workshop – Artistic Creation
Students created their own “sea” using recycled materials, illustrated the impacts of marine pollution, and conveyed messages about the need to protect marine ecosystems.
3rd Workshop – Traditional Dances and Nature
Through an interactive activity, students learned Greek traditional dances inspired by nature and discussed how the natural environment shapes the music and cultural identity of each region.
4th Workshop – Educational Robotics and the Environment
Through hands-on activities, students explored how robotics can be used to study environmental parameters and how technological tools can help mitigate the effects of climate change.
In the afternoon, the Closing Ceremony took place — a heartfelt celebration filled with words of gratitude, shared memories, and the awarding of participation certificates to all students and teachers.
A group photo, offered by the Parents’ Association, captured the spirit of unity and friendship that defined the week.
When the official ceremony ended… the celebration truly began.
All groups walked to Karamanlis Park, where the Greek Guiding Association, a long-standing supporter of youth activities, had prepared a special event on the stage of the Student Festival.
There, dancing, singing, and laughter continued, followed by an emotional farewell dinner.
A particularly moving moment was the arrival of former students of our school — young people who had participated in an earlier Erasmus programme four years ago and returned to reconnect with their teachers and share memories.
Even more special was the reunion of the four teachers who had collaborated in that previous project, proving once again that European programmes do not simply end when the project formally closes.
They continue through relationships, friendships, and bonds that last over time.
The atmosphere was one of “happy sorrow” — joy, emotion, hugs, tears, promises to stay in touch, and hopes that we will reunite again.
Above all, there was the certainty that this week will remain deeply engraved in the memory of every participant.
Because when you share experiences, you open pathways.
And when you bring people together, you build a Europe of cooperation, understanding, and progress.
Protect your Nature, Protect your Future.
