Two-Day MUS-E Educational Seminar: Arts in the School

For two full days, our school complex transformed into a vibrant space of artistic expression and collaboration. The International Yehudi Menuhin Foundation (IYMF), together with Education Consultant for Primary Schools (PE70) Mr. Nikos Efstathiou and the Museum of Greek Children’s Art*, joined forces to present the seminar MUS-E – “Arts in the School”.

The aim of the seminar was to open a new window into the way artists and educators bring creativity into the classroom, introducing the MUS-E methodology and preparing the ground for pilot actions within the Skills Labs. Thirty-five teachers from three primary schools in Ilioupoli — our own, the 5th, and the 15th — participated actively, giving life to a dynamic learning community where teamwork blended harmoniously with individual expression.

At the heart of the seminar beat the rhythms of cooperation, trust, and solidarity. Themes such as equality, social inclusion, and well-being at school were central to the activities, cultivating essential skills for every educator: empathy, listening, communication, resilience, self-awareness, acceptance, and empowerment. Participants found their own voice taking shape, while through creative play and group exercises they strengthened their confidence, imagination, and drive for innovation.

The seminar was conducted in Greek, with its experiential component led by Mr. Efthymios Angelakis, an artist–educator with twenty years of experience in the MUS-E program. The session opened with an engaging introduction to the MUS-E philosophy and flowed into a series of participatory workshops that guided teachers through movement, dance, music, and the visual arts.

Each activity, improvisation, and moment of co-creation helped participants discover new modes of expression and feel part of a community that creates, communicates, and grows together.

Our collaboration with the International Yehudi Menuhin Foundation, the Museum of Greek Children’s Art, and Education Consultant Mr. Nikos Efstathiou within the MUS-E programme is part of our school’s Erasmus+ project titled “Small Actions of Great Value: Our School on the Way to Sustainability.”

* The Yehudi Menuhin International Foundation, following the proposal of the Foundation’s Communications Advisor, Ms. Louisa Anastopoulou, is represented in Greece by the Museum of Greek Children’s Art.

Publications of the seminar:

Alfavita (Education news website)

Museum of Greek Children’s Art