Project: MINI OLYMPICS
Location: Zaragoza, Spain
Dates: 18 May - 22 May 2009



"I'm very happy to get my first goal in a professional ground!" Tilal

As part of Solidarity Sports and St Cuthbert Primary School's commitment to providing children with the opportunity to expand their knowledge and appreciation of cultures in the global community we were privileged enough to take 25 children to Zaragoza to spend 5 days at the Hilarion Gimeno School.

The children established a relationship with their peers in Spain through exchanging letters, emails and sharing their school projects. This relationship developed over the academic year and formed the basis of a collaborativeproject in which both schools worked together to plan and hold a mini Olympics.

During our time in Spain the mornings were spent studying at the school and helping young pupils with arts and crafts activities. In the afternoons, we visited museums, historical landmarks, as well as the Real Zaragoza football stadium. This gave children the opportunity to mix with the local community of Zaragoza and practice their Spanish.

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The visit culminated in a special Mini-Olympic day. Children from both schools created the publicity, planned and took part in sports activities during this day. The games included traditional Spanish and English sports and activities. The aim of the trip was to help the children to develop an understanding and knowledge of each other's culture, traditions and promote international co-operation.

The thoughts and new learning experiences of the children were captured in a memorable film as they explore the city.