Young ArcHers: Learning to defend architectural heritage in primary schools

"<< Background >>We applied for this project in response to societal challenges linked to social inclusion and education, particularly among young people. In addition, the focus on digital literacy is in line with the desire to prepare individuals for the digital age. The project aligns with the diverse missions of its partners, namely the inclusion and protection of cultural heritage by proposing innovative approaches to their integration into educational systems.Our priority has been to help primary school teachers involve pupils aged 9 to 12 in exploring European heritage and developing digital skills.The project aims to support and inspire teachers to use architectural heritage as a versatile tool for teaching a variety of subjects. It offers engaging opportunities for students and teachers in innovative educational activities, including tour routes and educational games, promoting the integration of students from diverse cultural backgrounds. The project also involves the creation of educational tools and materials accessible to all students, including those with disabilities or specific needs.<< Objectives >>Our aim in implementing the project is to help primary school teachers involve pupils aged 9 to 12 in exploring European heritage and developing digital skills. In addition, the project aims to promote social integration and inclusion, motivate primary school pupils to engage collectively, whatever their socio-cultural background, support them in acquiring knowledge and skills related to architectural heritage, and increase awareness of European values.We sought to foster cultural understanding, promote inclusion and enhance education through innovative methods. We aimed to empower students from diverse backgrounds, facilitate their cognitive and social development, and have a significant impact on heritage education and conservation. In addition, we aimed to raise awareness among teachers and students of the issues surrounding architectural heritage and cultural accessibility.<< Implementation >>In addition to the project results, other practical activities supporting the needs and objectives of the project were implemented: - 4 transnational partner meetings.- 4 multiplier events with over 170 participants (130 participants expected in the application)- Development of a website containing all project results.- 6 newsletters written by the partners- 1 initial digital accessibility audit of the project website, followed by 1 follow-up audit to measure compliance with WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) and RGAA (Référentiel général d'amélioration de l'accessibilité).- 2 digital accessibility training courses attended by partners: 1 course targeting non-technical staff (7 modules over 7 hours), and 1 course targeting technical staff and developers (3 modules over 10 hours).- 12 teachers and cultural education experts took part in C1 activity<< Results >>The 21 Milestones defined in the project application p. 47 have been achieved (see PR annex for details).PR1- 1 digital toolbox containing 4 modules and 4 lesson plans, offering 14 digital storytelling tools adapted to children aged 9 to 12 (including accessible tools)- 1 teacher's guide to architectural heritage- 17 teachers trained in the 2 partner schoolsPR2- 2 audio guide tours in each of the 4 participating towns.- 2 videos in sign language per participating town.- 125 students tested the tour routes in Athens and NicosiaPR3- 5 multiplex activities/games taking into account the needs of different age groups between 6 and 13 years old. - 94 students tested the games producedPR4- 2 local and 1 international ""Young ArcHers Day"" awareness campaigns - 1 methodological report describing the 3 campaigns - 3 digital storytelling videos: 2 for the local campaigns (created by students in Athens and Nicosia), 1 for the international campaign- 70 students involved in developing the content of the heritage awareness campaigns"