As part of the Erasmus program, we had the opportunity to spend an exciting and enriching week in Sweden together with our partner school, the Ellen Fries Gymnasium in Uppsala. 

Monday

On Monday, our first day at school, we took part in school lessons. In mathematics, we engaged in a collaborative group task that involved describing geometric shapes in English so that another group could recreate them through drawing. This activity promoted both communication and precision in expression — strengthening learning to learn and personal competences through language and critical thinking.
Later, we joined a Swedish lesson, conducted in English, that explored the roots of modern English. The task required recognizing historical language connections and translating terms between English, Swedish, and German — a great exercise in analytical thinking and linguistic awareness.
Lunch in the cafeteria offered us an informal opportunity to connect with Swedish students, supporting the development of social competences through intercultural dialogue.
In religion class, we reflected on differences between religious education in Germany and Sweden. Notably, we discussed how Swedish curricula aim to treat all religions equally, which prompted rich conversations about pluralism and tolerance.
To conclude the day, we prepared tacos together — a common Friday tradition in Sweden — followed by a music quiz. These informal activities further enhanced social bonding, teamwork, and personal development in a relaxed context.

Tuesday

Our day began with a workshop at 9 a.m. led by Kai Tietze on “Neurocentric Approaches for Stress-Free Learning.” Together with Swedish students, we explored how sensory stimuli — especially through touch and taste — can help regulate stress. This session offered valuable strategies to foster self-awareness and learning to learn competences, grounded in neuroscience.
After lunch at the school, we joined a student-led city tour of Uppsala. Swedish students prepared and presented historical insights at several stops, such as Uppsala Cathedral, where we learned about King Erik IX, and a historic university building with an old dissection room. The tour ended at Uppsala Castle, where we explored local history through peer teaching — enhancing both social interaction and communication skills in an international setting.
Later in the day, we took part in a German lesson at the Ellen Fries Gymnasium. The main objective was to encourage conversational exchange. This offered a space to practice empathy, cultural curiosity, and intercultural social competences.

Wednesday

On Wednesday morning, we visited the Vehicle Engineering Programme. Staff explained how students there combine academic and vocational learning, gaining hands-on experience in vehicle mechanics — a model that highlights the value of applied learning and learning-to-learn competences. We were also able to try out a truck-driving simulator, which offered a fun and engaging way to explore practical learning contexts.
After lunch, we took part in a guided tour of Uppsala Cathedral. The session highlighted architectural and historical features such as stained-glass windows and royal tombs. This deepened our appreciation for cultural heritage and fostered reflective learning — one of the pillars of personal and academic development.

Thursday

Our Thursday program began at 10 a.m. with a visit to the Arts Programme at Ellen Fries Gymnasium. After touring the music rooms, we joined a guitar lesson that introduced us to Swedish classics and international pop songs. This activity promoted personal competence by encouraging creativity and perseverance, especially for those unfamiliar with the instrument.
Following lunch and some free time, we reconvened in the evening for a bowling night with the Swedish students. This informal setting provided space to build social bonds, boost team spirit, and develop interpersonal skills in a relaxed, supportive environment.

Friday

On Friday, we traveled to a natural lakeside area near Gåsholmens Nature Reserve, accompanied by Swedish teachers. After a short hike with supplies, we set up a fire together. Though we initially attempted to use flint and steel, we successfully lit the fire with a lighter, learning through trial and error ;-)
Together, we prepared simple meals: chocolate-stuffed bananas and pancakes, including gluten-free options. Everyone contributed, strengthening collaboration and responsibility within a group. We also engaged in conversations around Swedish outdoor culture and daily life, which enhanced our cultural and personal awareness.
In the afternoon, we visited the home of a Swedish student to learn more about everyday Swedish life. This visit offered insight into cultural practices and values.

Saturday

On our final day, we traveled by train to Stockholm, where we explored the historic center (Gamla Stan) and visited the Royal Palace. A short ferry ride took us to the Vasa Museum, home to the 17th-century warship Vasa. We explored exhibitions on naval history and daily life on board, deepening our understanding of the past and developing reflective learning strategies through observation and critical thinking.
After lunch, we said farewell to our Swedish partners. While some students returned to Uppsala, others stayed in Stockholm for additional exploration. The day provided a fitting conclusion to a week rich in interpersonal growth and cultural exchange.

Text: Kami Wolff, Elias Backhaus, David Klatt, Enola Danho