The Icelandic Education System with a Focus on Sustainability and Eco Awareness

Discover sustainability and inclusive teaching practices in the Icelandic education system through action research and school visits.

Join us on this engaging and practical 7-day course to experience first-hand how sustainability, eco awareness, culture and heritage have shaped one of the world’s most innovative education systems.

Inspiring school visits, immersive field experiences and the Smart Teachers Play More methodology bring the Icelandic education system to life. Explore how the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are reflected in Icelandic schools and society, and how awareness, well-being and small actions can inspire meaningful change in teaching and school communities.

Participants gain a holistic understanding of the Icelandic education system through the lens of sustainability and eco awareness, discovering how Icelandic schools place equal value on practical and academic learning to create inclusive and engaging environments.

Building on these experiences, participants develop a focused action research project inspired by Icelandic educational practice, creating a practical foundation for meaningful and lasting change in their own school communities. 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Understand how sustainability, eco awareness, inclusion, well-being and practical learning are integrated into the Icelandic education system.
• Gain first-hand experience of Iceland’s approach to sustainability through Eco-School practices, renewable energy, environmental conservation and the Sustainable Development Goals.
• Discover how outdoor learning, movement, arts and practical subjects contribute to inclusive, engaging and supportive learning environments.
• Develop practical ideas, cross-curricular activities and classroom resources that promote environmental literacy, cultural awareness and community engagement.
• Learn the first steps of action research through observation, reflection and practical planning, developing a focused project centred on sustainability and/or well-being that can be continued within your own educational setting.
• Exchange ideas and reflect on Icelandic educational practice, identifying practical approaches that can be adapted to your own educational context and support future professional collaboration.

METHODOLOGY AND ASSESSMENT:

• Experiential Learning: Learn through inspiring school visits, immersive field experiences and authentic educational experiences, connecting educational theory with real-world practice.
• Smart Teachers Play More Methodology: Combining academic learning with personal, social and environmental objectives through movement, sensory activities and experiential learning.
• Guided Observation and Professional Reflection: Observe, question and reflect on Icelandic educational practice through structured observation, guided discussions and shared professional experiences.
• Introduction to Action Research: Learn the first steps of action research through observation, reflection and practical planning, developing a focused project centred on sustainability and/or well-being that can be continued within your own educational setting.
• Reflection and Knowledge Transfer: Reflect on successful Icelandic educational practices and identify practical strategies for transferring learning into your own educational setting.
• Collaborative Networking: Networking activities to exchange ideas, build professional connections and encourage future collaboration with fellow participants.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR PROFESSIONALS ACROSS THE EDUCATION SECTOR:

This course offers learning opportunities for teachers and school staff across the education sector including: Kindergarten; Primary; Secondary; Adult education; Special Needs; Teaching assistants; School management; Vocational education; and Student teachers.

AS PART OF THE COURSE WE ALSO PROVIDE:

• Morning refreshments
• Cultural evening
• Visit to the local swimming pool and hot tubs
• Course material
• Certificate of attendance, Europass Mobility Document, Learning Agreement (if applicable)

CULTURAL ACTIVITIES AND SIGHTSEEING:

Join us on our own tailor-made local tour of amazing Iceland with our SMART TEACHERS PLAY MORE TOUR PACKAGE for both participants and their families! A great way to enjoy the wonders of Iceland, network and get to know your new European friends.

ACCOMMODATION

Don’t miss out on our EXCLUSIVE PARTICIPANT DISCOUNT VOUCHERS for a brand new trendy hotel we work with close to our course centre!

COURSE DATES:

21.02.2027 > 27.02.2027 CONFIRMED

28.03.2027 > 03.04.2027 CONFIRMED

09.05.2027 > 15.05.2027 CONFIRMED

22.08.2027 > 28.08.2027 CONFIRMED

03.10.2027 > 09.10.2027 CONFIRMED 

31.10.2027 > 06.11.2027 CONFIRMED