CARDET at the Teacher Training Days 2025–2026

CARDET actively participated in the Teacher Training Days for the 2025–2026 school year, organised by the Ministry of Education, Sports and Youth and the Cyprus Pedagogical Institute, held from 2–5 September 2025. The initiative gathered preschool, primary, and special education teachers from across Cyprus for a series of professional development workshops.

On 2 September in Kalo Chorio, Larnaca, the RoboAquaria introduced 15 educators to practical robotics tools and their application in the classroom, with a strong emphasis on promoting STEM education and environmental awareness. The session, titled “Application of Robotics for the Promotion of the STE(A)M Approach and Environmental Awareness”, showcased how robotics can be meaningfully integrated into diverse subjects — from art to environmental education. Teachers explored the definition of a robot, examined real-world examples of robotics in monitoring marine ecosystems, coastal erosion, and pollution, and engaged in hands-on practice using tools such as the M5StickCPlus (“the brain”) and the Dual Button (sensor). With the UIFlow Virtual platform, teachers programmed commands and gained insight into how robotics can enrich classroom learning. The session also encouraged discussion on how such tools can foster more interactive lessons while cultivating students’ environmental awareness. Educators wishing to delve deeper can access UIFlow Virtual, ready-to-use lesson plans, and a full online course on educational robotics and marine education through the project’s platform: https://elearning.roboaquaria-project.eu/ 

On 3 September in Palaiometocho B’, the Ageing Well and COSERE workshop titled “Collaborative Practices among Teachers within the School for Professional Learning Purposes”, focused on strengthening collegiality and promoting teacher wellbeing. In the presence of 25 teachers from Kokkinotrimithia A’ and Paliometocho B’ Primary Schools, the session introduced positive psychology and the PERMA wellbeing model. Educators worked in groups to outline the profile of a “good colleague”, share meaningful experiences of professional support, and reflect on common challenges. They then brainstormed initiatives to foster collegiality within their schools, presenting their proposals in plenary. The workshop also incorporated experiential activities and digital tools designed to encourage mutual support and collaboration.

On 4 September at Lemesos – Agios Spyridonas Primary School IG’, the Digital Harmony and Ageing Well workshop on “Collaborative Practices among Teachers within the School for Professional Learning Purposes”, explored ways to promote cooperation and networking, particularly in the context of intergenerational learning and community-oriented initiatives. With the participation of 11 teachers, the session once again highlighted the PERMA model, combined with group work on defining the traits of a supportive colleague, sharing positive experiences, and co-designing initiatives to enhance collegiality. These ideas were later presented and discussed collectively.

Through these workshops, CARDET contributed to the success of the Teacher Training Days by equipping educators with practical tools, innovative methodologies, and new perspectives to strengthen professional growth, wellbeing, and classroom innovation.