IGOR

On June 8, the students participating in the “Little Gardeners” and “Home Economics” B1 activities visited the IGOR Educational Center in Marindvor.

Our friendly host, Igor, and animator Nikolina introduced us to the principles of healthy eating and actively involved us in preparing nutritious meals. The students made a berry smoothie, chia seed pudding, and no-bake Raffaello-style energy balls.

After the culinary activities, the children enjoyed playing and spending time outdoors in the beautiful natural surroundings. To conclude the visit, they worked in groups to create posters related to the day’s educational topics, creatively presenting what they had learned.

The field trip was highly educational, engaging, and enjoyable. Enriched with new knowledge and wonderful experiences, we promised to return to this beautiful place again.

Teacher Ivana Glavaš
“Ivan Goran Kovačić” Primary School, Velika

Source: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057571536013

As part of the Erasmus+ project “Home in Time and Traditions”, Julije Kempf Primary School hosted a multi-day mobility visit for students and teachers from Portugal, Italy, and Estonia from 20 to 24 April 2026. During the five-day programme, participants had the opportunity to explore Croatian cultural heritage and traditional architecture, while also developing intercultural competences through collaborative activities and the exchange of experiences.

On the fourth day, the activities took place at IGOR Centre for Lifelong Learning Programmes, where students attended a lecture and participated in a practical workshop on traditional techniques used in the construction of Slavonian houses. By creating house models from natural materials, the participants developed teamwork, creativity, and awareness of the importance of preserving cultural heritage. The day was further enriched with traditional games.

Source: https://os-jkempfa-pozega.skole.hr/erasmus-projekt-home-in-time-and-traditions/

On March 30, 2026, a professional development workshop for teachers and professional associates of Ivan Goran Kovačić Primary School Zdenci was held at the IGOR Center.

Read more:
https://os-igkovacic-zdenci.skole.hr/odrzano-strucno.../

Review by Principal Ivana Pavelić, M.Ed.:

"Lecture title: Strengthening Teachers’ Professional Competencies through Communication and Stress Management Strategies
Location: The village of Marindvor, Požega, Croatia, EU; IGOR Lifelong Learning Center
Duration: 4 hours
Lecturer: Igor Štavlić, M.Sc., Senior Lecturer

The lecture Strengthening Teachers’ Professional Competencies through Communication and Stress Management Strategies, held in Marindvor at the IGOR Center, proved to be an exceptionally useful and content-rich professional event intended for teachers and professional associates. The focus on practical communication skills, professional relationships, and stress management methods provided participants with concrete tools that can be immediately applied in everyday school environments.

The lecturer successfully combined theoretical foundations with practical examples, enabling a better understanding of the challenges within the teaching profession. Particular emphasis was placed on topics such as active listening, nonverbal communication, assertiveness, and the importance of emotional regulation in resolving conflict situations. Participants also had the opportunity to analyze their own communication patterns, which contributed to greater reflection and awareness of the professional competencies they develop daily.

The second part of the lecture, focused on stress management strategies, was especially valuable given the demanding and intensive nature of school work. Through practical exercises, breathing techniques, and boundary-setting methods, teachers received clear guidance on how to maintain mental health, professional motivation, and a sense of purpose in their work. Participants highlighted that this segment provided new insights into the importance of self-care as a foundation for successful work with students.

The lecture was clearly structured, dynamic, and interactive, with a stimulating atmosphere that encouraged participation, questions, and open discussion. The lecturer’s high level of expertise, as well as their approachable presentation style, was particularly emphasized.

The hospitality and well-organized informal gathering exceeded all expectations."

What was the fieldwork like?

"On March 25, 2026, we visited the IGOR Educational Center in Marindvor, where an outdoor lesson in Nature and Society was held. With the kind hosts Katarina and Igor, the field lesson with the children was led by the cheerful and patient instructor Nikolina.

We enjoyed a series of excellently designed activities and reinforced our knowledge on the topic of Orientation in Space. We used a compass, searched for treasure—in the yard, garden, and nearby forest—made a simple sundial and a water compass, reviewed natural signs that help us orient ourselves, and finally calmed down by listening to the sounds of the forest and determining from which direction each sound was coming.

We would like to thank the IGOR Center for an outstanding and professionally designed lesson. It was dynamic, engaging, joyful, and inspiring. We look forward to future gatherings with your team!"

Students of Class 3.a, Primary School Julija Kempf and their teacher, Blanka Berger