Erasmus+

In 2019, St Leonard's were very lucky to be invited to join an Erasmus+ project, working with schools in Italy, Finland, Greece and Spain. The project focusses on teaching children about astronomy and having an appreciation for the night sky. Read more about the project below! 

2019-2022: "...E QUINDI USCIMMO A RIVEDER LE STELLE"

The central idea of the project aims to fight the lack of scientific-mathematical skills in children between 9 and 12 years, through the approach to the study of astronomy and observation of the sky. The direct observation of celestial phenomena, the collection of data and the related analysis in order to formulate hypotheses to be verified on the field will all be elements that will bring pupils very close to the scientific method and the history of scientific discoveries. Through the various mobilities in the five European countries belonging to the partnership (Italy, Finland, United Kingdom, Spain, Greece) there will be the opportunity to observe the celestial vault from places located at different latitudes in Europe, specifically chosen during the design phase in locations of particular geographic and scientific interest, which possess structures dedicated to astronomical observation. This will allow us to experience that each observation point offers a different perspective of the celestial vault although it is one and one for all. Thanks to the possibility of visiting very distant places on the global grid, children will also be able to see how the latitude and the consequent different solar irradiation influences many aspects of life on earth, from duration of daylight to climate, from landscape to human settlements. In addition to acquiring essential knowledge related to the celestial sphere, it will be possible to let the students retrace the history of scientific and technological observations and inquiries that brought the human being from rock paintings to the discovery of the globe and the conquest of space. Particular attention will also be directed to the humanistic-philosophical and anthropological approach through the examination of myths, literary, artistic and religious works related to the knowledge of the sky. The project activities will allow to use innovative teaching methods and new technologies, experimenting with new pedagogical approaches to learning and teaching, developing interdisciplinary programs based on reality tasks, promoting basic skills as well as interpersonal skills and European citizenship's ones. For further information, please read the project summary and visit our eTwinning page. In January 2020, Mr Seymour, Miss van der Heijden and a group of four Year 5 children went to Finland. Have a look at some of our pictures here!