International Project Meeting in Cork

From 18 to 20 May 2026, the second in-person project meeting of Green Cool Schools took place in Cork, Ireland. All project partners from Austria, Germany, Spain, Ireland and Hungary participated. The meeting provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on the project work carried out so far, exchange experiences and plan the next steps for the upcoming project phase.

On the first day, the focus was initially on the project meeting. Together, the partners reviewed the activities completed to date and discussed how the project objectives can be achieved in the best possible way. In addition, dates for the upcoming webinars were agreed, preparations for the next Green Cool Schools Award were discussed and the evaluation of the teaching materials developed within the project was addressed.

Day 1: Project meeting and exchange workshop

On the first day, the focus was initially on the project meeting. Together, the partners reviewed the activities completed to date and discussed how the project objectives can be achieved in the best possible way. In addition, dates for the upcoming webinars were agreed, preparations for the next Green Cool Schools Award were discussed and the evaluation of the teaching materials developed within the project was addressed.

In the afternoon, the focus shifted to an exchange workshop with teachers. The participants shared their experiences with the implementation of greening projects in the different partner countries. Similarities, obstacles and challenges were openly discussed. The intensive exchange showed how different the framework conditions at schools can be, while also highlighting the many common topics and questions that connect the project partners.

Day 2: Visit and discover our partner schools

The second day took the participants to two Irish partner schools. The first visit was to Carriganima National School, a small school with only 16 pupils. The guests received a very warm welcome and were given insights into the school garden, where various projects are being implemented. These include, among other things, a wormery for composting organic waste and a compost heap for biodegradable waste from everyday school life. The classrooms were also presented to the visitors. Afterwards, everyone enjoyed refreshments with sandwiches and a specially prepared cake.

The group then visited Gaelscoil na Dúglaise, an Irish-language school where all teaching takes place in Irish Gaelic. Here, too, the project partners were welcomed with great warmth. A musical performance by the school band and choir created a truly memorable atmosphere. During the following tour of the school and garden, the participants were able to see numerous greening projects and creative approaches to the design of outdoor spaces.

Day 3: Group excursion

On the third day, the meeting concluded with a joint excursion to the Blackrock Castle Observatory. The participants visited the observatory and gained exciting insights into the history of the city of Cork and the importance of shipping for the region. One particularly interesting fact was that Cork Harbour is among the deepest natural harbours in the world. A planetarium star show was also part of the programme and rounded off the visit.

Conclusion: Personal Exchange, Shared Ideas and Looking Ahead

In addition to the professional programme, the joint dinner of all project partners also provided space for personal conversations and further international exchange. These informal encounters are particularly important for strengthening cooperation and make a valuable contribution to the success of the project.

A heartfelt thank you goes to the Irish partners for their wonderful hospitality, as well as to Munster Technology University (MTU) and especially Simon for organising such a varied and successful programme. We greatly enjoyed our time together in Cork.

Photos: B-NK, MTU

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