In a landmark event for Avicenna High School, students from Montardon-Pau, France participated in their first-ever Erasmus mobility trip to our school. The French high school students joined Grade 11, the Italians joined grade 10 classes for a full week, immersing themselves in a rich blend of academic, cultural, and social experiences from 7 to 12 April.

This visit marked the 18-19th one-week Erasmus mobility hosted by Avicenna in the 2024–25 academic year, further solidifying the school’s active and leading role in European educational exchange.

The mornings were dedicated to academic integration and thematic workshops. The French and Italian students took part in Avicenna’s regular study programme alongside their Hungarian and international peers, engaging in collaborative classroom activities and interactive lessons. Workshops, led by Avicenna’s dedicated staff, offered opportunities for interdisciplinary learning and cultural dialogue, in line with Erasmus+ goals of enhancing intercultural understanding and educational innovation.

Lunches were enjoyed together in Avicenna’s welcoming canteen, providing daily moments of connection and informal exchange between students and staff from both schools.

Afternoons were filled with a rich lineup of cultural excursions across Budapest, designed to showcase Hungary’s capital in all its historical and artistic depth. Highlights of the week included:

• A guided tour of the Hungarian Parliament, one of Europe’s most beautiful legislative buildings.

• A visit to the Central Market Hall, where students explored local flavors and traditional Hungarian products.

• Walks through the majestic Buda Castle district and panoramic views from Gellért Hill.

• An inspiring tour of the Hungarian State Opera House, where students learned about the country’s artistic legacy.

• A closing cultural day at Heroes’ Square, including visits to the House of Hungarian Music and Ethnography museum

This first exchange with Montardon-Pau and Umbertide marked a significant milestone in Avicenna’s Erasmus+ journey. It was a week of learning, laughter, discovery, and new friendships, a perfect embodiment of what the Erasmus programmes stand for.

We thank our Italian and French guests for their enthusiasm and openness and look forward to many more exchanges in the future!

Written by: Steve Szabó

20. April. 2025