Creative and Inclusive Learning: Teachers Gather in Gerðaskóli through the ACADIMIA Project

On 19 January 2026, ten educators from across Suðurnes came together at Gerðaskóli in Suðurnesjabær for an inspiring professional development workshop focused on creative and inclusive teaching methods. The event was organised by GeoCamp Iceland as part of the European ACADIMIA project, which promotes innovative approaches to teacher education and creative learning environments across Europe.

Teachers from Gerðaskóli, Háaleitisskóli, and Akurskóli primary schools, as well as Tjarnarsel kindergarten, participated in the afternoon workshop, exploring new ways to strengthen student engagement, inclusion, and creativity in the classroom.

The training introduced two innovative educational approaches that are being developed and shared through the ACADIMIA network. The first session focused on SBL – Strength-Based Learning, a method that encourages students to shape their own learning pathways based on their strengths and abilities. The approach provides flexible assessment frameworks that allow students to progress through observation, imitation, creativity, and originality while supporting diverse and multicultural classrooms.

The second session introduced CLEAR – Creative Learning Approach, where drama, storytelling, role-play, and creative expression become central tools in teaching and learning. Participants explored how creative methods can be integrated across subjects in compulsory education, combining curriculum content with theatre techniques, body language, collaborative storytelling, and experiential learning.

The workshop was led by educators Sara Ross Bjarnadóttir, Sigrún Svafa Ólafsdóttir, Ragnheiður Alma Snæbjörnsdóttir, and Freydís Kneif Kolbeinsdóttir, who shared practical examples and hands-on activities with participants throughout the afternoon.

Events such as this reflect the growing emphasis within the ACADIMIA project on empowering teachers with methods that support inclusion, participation, creativity, and student wellbeing. By bringing together schools from across the Reykjanes region, the workshop also strengthened local collaboration and professional exchange among educators working towards more engaging and student-centred learning environments.

GeoCamp Iceland continues to play an active role in connecting international educational innovation with local schools and communities through outdoor learning, STEAM education, and teacher professional development initiatives.