The eTwinning workshop Succeeding in basic skills through project-based learning took place on 10–12 April 2025 in Riga, Latvia. The event gathered 77 participants onsite and 40 participants online, with an additional 350 viewers joining the live streaming on YouTube.   

Teachers explored and exchanged on how project-based learning and eTwinning can support pupils’ basic skills in numeracy, literacy and digital literacy.  

Day 1: Understanding the importance of basic skills 

The conference was opened by Līga Lejina, the director of the Agency for International Programmes for Youth in Latvia, representing the Latvian National Support Organisation.   

“Through structured support, practical tools and inspiring opportunities we are shaping a generation of learners who are confident, compassionate and capable of making a real impact, starting in the classrooms and reaching far beyond.”  

Amy Burnett from the European Commission Directorate-General for Education and Culture, presented the European Commission’s Action plan on basic skills, highlighting its three focus areas: 

Image: Action plan on basic skills, European Commission 

The first keynote speaker, Ginta Kārkliņa, International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme coordinator at the International School of Riga, presented a concrete example of how a real-life experience – cooking – can support to the development of basic skills, keeping children enthusiastic about learning.   

She emphasised the importance of valuing children’s play and creating opportunities for children to solve problems, think critically and make meaningful choices.  

“[It is important to] develop their skills and knowledge in contexts that are relevant to them, and this is how we can truly connect learning to the real world: by helping children make sense of their world and empowering them to shape it.” 

In the second keynote, Paula Walshe, Assistant Lecturer at South East Technological University, focused on the development of digital skills from an early age. As many young children already use digital devices, nurturing their critical awareness, knowledge and attitudes related to digital environment is essential. 

“Fostering digital competence in children needs careful consideration. They need more than just familiarisation and confidence with the digital world and digital tools.” 

She explained how relevant pedagogical activities chosen by teachers help children actively engage and influence their world now and in the future.   

Watch the recording of the first day on YouTube. 

Day 2 and 3: From theory to practice  

The second day was dedicated to workshop sessions and networking. Participants discovered different aspects of project-based learning and basic skills through variety of themes including outdoor play, e-safety, STEAM and many more. 

On the third day, participants presented the eTwinning project ideas they had developed collaboratively during the networking sessions. Using a project-based approach and the eTwinning platform, teachers were encouraged to develop project ideas that would enhance pupils’ engagement and meet their varied needs.  

The event continued with a panel discussion on how collaborative work and project-based learning can strengthen essential skills such as literacy, numeracy, science, digital competence and citizenship.   

Finally, Concha Ramos and Tatiana Polo, two experienced eTwinners from Spain, shared their insights and showcased examples of their own eTwinning projects. They emphasised the significant impact of eTwinning, not only for teachers’ professional growth but also for enriching pupils’ learning experiences.  

Watch the recording of the third day on YouTube.  

Group photo on 12 April 2025