Course Schedule

Core Activities

Day 1

Introduction to STPM - Building connections

Begin your journey with the STPM approach, where mindfulness and well-being take centre stage. Dive into Finland’s pioneering educational model and cultural heritage through "The Finnish Corner," and connect with new European colleagues through engaging ice breaking activities and a welcoming social gathering. This event takes place in Helsinki’s iconic library, a stunning blend of cultural house, community hub, and breathtaking architecture. This inspiring venue sets the tone for a week of creativity, connection, and learning.

Day 2:  

Get to know Smart Teachers Play More (STPM) methodology

Learn the core principles of STPM in the early years, exploring movement games and multi-modal techniques to teach key concepts while supporting teacher and child well-being. Discover the value of “Now Minutes” for quiet, mindful activities that reinforce early concepts and social skills.

Day 3:

Movement games and storytelling in action

Explore the use of travel modes in STPM core activities including classroom obstacle courses and taking part in the Move to the Middle core game.  Experience active storytelling techniques and calming story activities using natural objects.  

The Finnish educational system

We will conclude the day with an introduction to the Finnish school system, providing essential background knowledge in preparation for the upcoming school visit.

Day 4: 

Interactive school visits and reflection

Participants will spend the day visiting a Finnish school tailored to their teaching stage or subject area. This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to gain inside knowledge, interact with Finnish educators and students, and explore the Finnish school system firsthand. Through conversations and observations, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the practices that make Finland's education system stand out. At the end of the school day, we will come together as a group to reflect on the visits, share insights, and discuss how these experiences can inform and inspire your own teaching practices.

Day 5: 

Managing movement in the classroom

Explore how to set up and manage STPM learning stations in a simple way, with active participation and practical classroom management tips.

Sharing inclusive practices - A European dimension

Share and be inspired by positive practices in a collaborative session where participants exchange successful classroom activities and ideas from schools all over Europe.

Day 6: 

Classroom yoga and reflection

Learn simple yoga, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to integrate into class routines for student and teacher well-being. 

The positive classroom action plan

Using digital collaboration tools, create an actionable plan to implement STPM methodology in your teaching practice. Select specific strategies that align with your goals and define short-, medium-, and long-term actions to promote engagement, resilience, and focus in your classroom. Strengthen your commitment through collaborative discussions and shared intentions, and conclude with course evaluation and feedback to ensure clarity and direction moving forward.

Day 7:

Reflection in Helsinki City Museum

We’ll spend our final day together at the Helsinki City Museum, reflecting on the week’s experiences and insights. This time will also be an opportunity to strengthen the connections formed with new friends, celebrating the journey and looking ahead to future collaborations.