Progress towards greater democracy in schools.
The coACTION project celebrated its Second Transnational Project Meeting in Pedome, Portugal, bringing together partners from Austria, Greece, Portugal, and Spain. This gathering represented a crucial milestone in the ongoing work to promote democratic participation and strengthen inclusive practices within European schools.
The meeting had a dual purpose: on the one hand, to review the progress achieved so far and, on the other, to coordinate the next steps leading towards the pilot phase of the project. The partners focused especially on the completion of the so-called “democracy products” designed for primary schools:
- The coACTION Sensor, a tool that helps measure the level of democratic participation in schools and identify areas for improvement.
- The coACTION Treasury, a resource that supports pupils and teachers in putting democratic values into practice through concrete activities and initiatives.
In addition to finalising these tools, the team agreed on a standardised process to guide schools step by step in integrating the materials into their daily routines. This structured approach ensures that democracy is not treated as an abstract concept but as a living practice embedded in the school environment.
A highlight of the meeting was the direct testing of these products on site. Teachers, partners, and participants engaged with the tools, providing immediate feedback that will help refine the materials and ensure they are practical, accessible, and user-friendly for school communities. The collaborative atmosphere and exchange of experiences among international partners enriched the process, allowing for different educational perspectives to be considered.
Another important part of the meeting was the detailed preparation of the pilot phase, which will begin in September 2025. Ten schools across the four partner countries – Austria, Greece, Portugal, and Spain – will implement the coACTION materials during the next academic year. This pilot will be essential to evaluate the real impact of the project, gather insights from pupils and teachers, and further adapt the resources before their broader dissemination.
The Pedome meeting reaffirmed the project’s shared vision: to empower schools as spaces where democracy is learned, experienced, and strengthened on a daily basis. Thanks to the dedication and cooperation of all partners, coACTION is taking significant steps towards equipping schools with practical tools to nurture democratic participation from an early age.
Let’s keep building a more inclusive and democratic future!
