From 25 to 29 May 2026, we took part in an international youth exchange organised as part of the Erasmus+ project ‘We Are the Same Despite Our Differences’. The project brought together pupils and teachers from Poland, Portugal and Turkey. Its main aim was to promote tolerance, prevent social exclusion and hate speech, and build relationships between young people from different countries.
On Monday, we began our tour of Gdańsk. We visited some of the city’s most important landmarks, including the Neptune Fountain and St Mary’s Church, where we admired the famous astronomical clock. We also had the chance to see the city from a different perspective during a ride on the Ferris wheel. We then had lunch at Pierogarnia Stary Młyn, where we sampled traditional Polish dishes. After lunch, we visited the Amber Museum and learnt about the history of the ‘gold of the Baltic’, its many uses and its significance in the region’s culture and traditions. At the end of the day, we had some free time to continue exploring the city.
We spent Tuesday at school. We welcomed our guests in their native languages, and then took part in team-building workshops. We also watched presentations prepared by the participating schools and looked at educational materials on hate speech. It was a valuable opportunity to exchange experiences, share ideas and gain a better understanding of each other’s cultures.
Wednesday was the busiest day of the project. In the morning, we travelled to Malbork, where we visited the impressive Teutonic Knights’ castle. We then went to the Olivia Star club in Gdańsk and took part in a team-building exercise at the Pixel club. The day ended with a group dinner on the 34th floor, where we enjoyed both the meal and the beautiful panoramic view of the Tri-City.
On Thursday, we went on a trip to Sopot. We travelled there by boat from Gdańsk, which was an exciting experience for everyone involved. Once we arrived, we explored the town, visited the area around the famous pier and had time for lunch and a rest. In the afternoon, we returned to Gdańsk by train.
Friday was the last day of our official programme. At school, we took part in lessons and projects focused on preventing social exclusion and hate speech amongst peers. Working in international groups, we wrote stories, created art projects, discussed important issues and drew conclusions together. There was also time for fun, dancing and socialising. At the end of the day, all participants received certificates confirming their participation in the project.
Another lovely surprise was Saturday’s trip to Warsaw, organised by the parents for the students from Turkey and some of the Polish participants. It was an extra adventure and a wonderful opportunity to explore the Polish capital. During the trip, we visited the Old Town, the Royal Castle, Sigismund’s Column, the Old Town Square and the Barbican. We also strolled along Krakowskie Przedmieście, discovering the history and atmosphere of Warsaw. This spontaneous trip was the perfect finishing touch to an already unforgettable week.
On Saturday, we said goodbye to our friends from Portugal, who had returned home. The following day, on Sunday, it was time to say goodbye to the participants from Turkey. It was a touching moment, as we had grown close over the course of the week and created many wonderful memories together.
Although we have now returned to our daily school routine, the memories of this project will stay with us for a long time to come. We have gained new knowledge, skills and experiences. We have learnt about different cultures, improved our English and developed our ability to work in an international environment. And most importantly, we have made new friends, friendships which we hope will last for many years to come.
The ‘We Are the Same Despite Our Differences’ project showed us that, despite our linguistic, cultural and national differences, we have far more in common than one might think. We have become more open-minded, empathetic and aware of others’ needs. It was an extraordinary experience that we will never forget.
