Two Longford students enjoy a life changing Erasmus trip to Spain

Two students from Ballymahon Vocational School recently returned from an exciting and 'life changing' seven week Erasmus+ trip to Institut Cubelles in Spain thanks to an innovative bilateral exchange programme.

During their stay, Evita Kokorite and Niamh O'Neill were fully immersed in the Spanish language and culture.

They attended classes at Institut Cubelles, where they engaged with local students and teachers, honed their language skills and gained valuable insights into the culture and life of Spanish teenagers.

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This exciting experience was made possible through the school's participation in the European Union's Erasmus+ program, which aims to promote cultural exchange, language skills, and educational development.

Léargas, Ireland's National Agency for Erasmus+, also played a key role in supporting this initiative.

Evita and Niamh also had the opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes and surrounding region, visit famous landmarks, discover the rich history and sample delicious local cuisine.

This exchange was the second leg of a bilateral partnership between Ballymahon Vocational School and Institut Cubelles.Earlier this year, five students from the Spanish region visited Ballymahon, where they were warmly welcomed by the school community.

One of the highlights of the exchange was the opportunity for students to experience local cuisine in both locations.

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In Spain, Evita and Niamh enjoyed traditional dishes such as paella and tortilla, while in Ireland, the visiting Spanish students sampled Irish delicacies like Irish stew and soda bread.

Students on both sides were also involved in cooking traditional dishes, providing a hands-on culinary experience that fostered cultural exchange and understanding.

Principal of Ballymahon Vocational School, Mick O'Rourke, praised the Erasmus+ program for providing "life-changing experiences" for students.

"We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with Institut Cubelles and look forward to continuing this partnership," he added.

Beyond the classroom, students from both schools participated in sporting and cultural activities that showcased their unique heritage.

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In Ireland, the Spanish students were introduced to the fast-paced sport of hurling, while in Spain, Evita and Niamh participated in traditional Catalan dances and music.

These shared experiences not only deepened their understanding of each other's cultures but also forged lasting bonds between the students.

During a weekend trip to Barcelona, Evita and Niamh had the opportunity to explore some of the city's most iconic landmarks including La Sagrada Família: Antoni Gaudí's breathtaking cathedral and Park Güell, another iconic Gaudí landmark.

The pair also experienced Las Ramblas, a bustling pedestrian street lined with street performers, cafes, and shops, offering a glimpse into Barcelona's vibrant cultural scene.

Mr O'Rourke said the success of this exchange is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Erasmus+ coordinator Irene McGoey who is also the head of the Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) department.

Mr O'Rourke insisted her 'tireless efforts' has opened up numerous opportunities for Ballymahon Vocational School students, and her passion for language learning and cultural exchange has inspired a new generation of globally-minded students.

The MFL department at Ballymahon Vocational School is a hub of linguistic and cultural activity, with a talented team of teachers who share Ms McGoey's enthusiasm for language learning.

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The girls' Spanish teacher Noel Neary played a significant role in preparing them for their Erasmus+ adventure.

Mr O'Rourke said French teacher Jesse Leen is currently coordinating an exciting upcoming trip for 10 students to Lille, France, while Italian language teacher Emmet Arrigan is always exploring new opportunities for students to engage with the Italian language and culture.

Ballymahon Vocational School's commitment to providing opportunities for cultural exchange and language development also extends beyond the MFL (Modern Foreign Languages) department.

The school's PE and Wellbeing Department, led by Ben McCormack and James Galvin, are organising an upcoming Erasmus+ trip to Slovakia.

Mr O'Rourke praised the dedicated management team at Institut Cubelles - Director Sonia Ruiz, Head of Studies Elisenda Masgrau, Pedagogical Coordinator Montserrat Núñez, and Secretary Montserrat Casulleras Marquès -for working tirelessly to provide a warm welcome and enriching experience for Evita and Niamh.