Mindfulness in Education: An Integrative, Project-Based Approach

This July, Laurus had the pleasure of being in Cork, Ireland, hosted by University College Cork (UCC) in collaboration with our partners Eurobjective https://www.eurobjective.com/

 Together, we delivered our ERASMUS+ course, «Mindfulness in Education: An Integrative, Project-Based Approach», designed specifically for secondary school teachers across Europe.

A Holistic Learning Experience

The course introduces participants to the foundations of mindfulness in an educational context. But it goes beyond the classroom: we explore how mindfulness can enrich students’ lives through connections with culture, history, local gastronomy, nature, and sport.

Our approach encourages teachers to observe themselves in relation to these topics, fostering both personal well-being and creative professional growth. The goal? To return to their schools equipped not only with new skills, but with renewed energy and a fresh perspective.

A Warm Welcome at UCC

From day one, our hosts at UCC impressed us: https://www.ucc.ie/en/visitorservices/ The head of visitor services—an engaging storyteller—led us on a historical and cultural tour of the campus and its magnificent trees. A highlight of the visit was learning about UCC’s regenerative landscaping project, which includes wildflower zones, natural habitats for wildlife, and even an on-site resident beekeeper. This initiative has earned UCC international recognition, placing it 4th globally in environmental university rankings and in the top 10 for eight consecutive years.

Cultural Immersion and Mindful Reflection

We immersed ourselves in Cork’s rich cultural offerings, integrating music and art into our training. A visit to the Glucksman Gallery included a thought-provoking exhibition on well-being, where teachers were invited to engage in mindful reflection on selected works of art.

Another day led us to the iconic English Market and its renowned Farmgate Restaurant, where we practiced sensory mindfulness while enjoying local, ecological produce—including the famous Stonewell Cider.

The GROW Projects: Regenerating Classrooms

Throughout the course, participants were guided to design their own GROW Project—a mindfulness-based initiative tailored to their school environments. These projects are intended to regenerate classroom dynamics, enhance student well-being, and foster a sense of joy, trust, and connection in learning spaces.

To close the week, we walked the labyrinth at St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, a contemplative journey symbolizing the integration of learning and inner transformation. Participants were invited to interiorize their insights and prepare to share them with their communities back home.

Join Us in Ireland – Summer 2026

Would you like to be part of this transformative experience in the summer of 2026? Explore our upcoming training opportunities in the ERASMUS+ section for teacher mobility and professional development.