Written by Steve Szabó
From 16 to 20 March, Avicenna High School had the pleasure of hosting eight visiting students from Grazia Deledda High School in Lecce. The mobility formed part of an ongoing Erasmus+ partnership that has, over the past years, steadily strengthened the professional and cultural ties between the two institutions.
While student exchanges often highlight the participants themselves, this particular visit was especially notable for the rich academic and cultural programme designed by the host school. The emphasis was placed on immersion into daily school life, interdisciplinary learning, and showcasing the educational environment of Avicenna.
Each morning, the visiting group joined Grade 10 students in regular lessons, observing a wide range of subjects including Mathematics, German, Spanish, English, History, Biology, and even introductory Hungarian. This structure allowed them to gain a realistic insight into classroom dynamics, teaching methodologies, and the multilingual, international atmosphere that defines Avicenna. Lessons were interactive and varied, reflecting a modern pedagogical approach that prioritises student engagement and critical thinking.
A highlight of the academic programme was the Biology lesson led by Mr Harout, who had himself recently participated in a job shadowing programme at the partner school in Lecce just a month earlier. This continuity added a meaningful layer to the exchange, as teaching practices and ideas experienced in Italy could now be reflected upon and shared in Budapest. It also symbolised the reciprocal nature of the partnership, where both institutions actively contribute to each other’s professional development.
Indeed, this visit was not an isolated event but part of a broader, ongoing collaboration. In the past two years, the principal of Avicenna has led two groups of students to Lecce, where they experienced hands-on laboratory work and participated in coastal conservation activities in the stunning Mediterranean environment. These previous mobilities left a lasting impression, reinforcing the educational and ecological dimensions of the partnership.
Afternoons during the March visit were dedicated to cultural exploration. After lunch at the nearby university campus, the group embarked on a series of carefully curated programmes designed to showcase the historical and architectural richness of Budapest. One of the most memorable experiences was an evening cruise on the Danube River, where the city’s landmarks were illuminated in warm orange lights, creating a uniquely atmospheric introduction to the Hungarian capital.
The cultural itinerary also included a guided visit to the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building, offering insight into the country’s political history and architectural grandeur. Students explored the vibrant Great Market Hall, climbed Gellért Hill for panoramic views, and wandered through the historic Buda Castle District. The programme concluded with a visit to Heroes’ Square, where Hungary’s national heritage is powerfully represented through its statues and monuments.
The weather during the week was unexpectedly warm for mid-March, which further enhanced the overall experience and allowed the group to fully enjoy the outdoor elements of the programme.
Overall, the mobility was a clear demonstration of how Erasmus+ exchanges can extend far beyond simple visits. Through structured academic observation, professional collaboration, and rich cultural engagement, both Avicenna High School and Grazia Deledda High School continue to build a partnership grounded in mutual respect, shared learning, and a commitment to broadening educational horizons.
Written by Steve Szabó
23th March 2026
