Erasmus+ enriching lives, opening minds at BG/BRG/BORG St. Johann im Pongau

At our school, languages play a central role in shaping an open-minded and globally aware community. All students learn English for eight years, building strong communication skills and cultural understanding. Starting in the lower grades, they can choose between French or Latin and continue their chosen language for six years, deepening either their modern language competence or classical language foundations. Later on, students once again have the option to study French or Latin for an additional four years, allowing them to tailor their language journey to their personal interests.

To enrich our linguistic profile even further, we offer optional classes in Italian and Spanish. These courses give our students the opportunity to explore new cultures, broaden their horizons, and strengthen their European identity.

Science at our school is anything but boring. In our Biology, Chemistry, and Physics labs, students get to experiment, test ideas, and explore how the world really works.
And for those who love to create, our 3D printer is the perfect tool to turn imagination into real objects—where learning meets creativity and fun.

In the upper grades, students can take part in choral singing, with two concerts each year showcasing their musical talents.
They can also join the school band and choose from a variety of instruments, including piano, guitar, clarinet, and vocals.

At the age of 12, students develop their own individual projects, fostering creativity and independent thinking.

At 13, they focus on financial literacy and explore various aspects of money management.

Entrepreneurship plays an important role throughout their education, encouraging initiative, responsibility, and innovative ideas.

In February 2022, six students and two teachers from Italy’s IIS Olivetti visited us as part of the Erasmus+ project: Traditions / Tradizioni.

In December, we were visited by two teachers from Turin, from IIS Giulio Natta.

In March 2024, we had the pleasure of welcoming two teachers from Norway who observed our lessons. Inspiring conversations took place, during which we explored and discussed similarities and differences. In October, we were delighted to host a group of students from Norway.

In April 2024, students from Romania undertook the long journey to visit us in St. Johann im Pongau. We explored the differences between the two countries in terms of culture, traditions, music, and cuisine, and identified both differences and similarities in the school systems.

From May 13th to 18th, we had the pleasure of welcoming eight students and three teachers from our partner school, Istituto Giulio Natta in Rivoli (Piedmont), as part of the Erasmus+ project "Design and Multimedia".

In October 2024, a group of interested young Norwegian students visited us.

In May 2025, we had the pleasure of welcoming our French partner school for their return visit. Our school was presented, and the French students joined a variety of lessons. Austrian students introduced local traditions, there was singing, lots of lively conversation, and guided walks through St. Johann in small groups. Exciting excursions completed the visit.

Also in May, four teachers from Spain and Italy completed a job-shadowing experience at our school. One of the main topics was the use of digital media and tools in the classroom. The lively discussions between teachers from three different countries about differences and shared approaches made the exchange especially enriching – and one teacher was so impressed that she will return this school year with a group of students.

In May, we were also visited by a group of students from Trieste (Liceo Francesco Petrarca), and together we worked on a project focused on sustainability and renewable energy.

In October, we had the pleasure of welcoming eight students and two teachers from Gangi, Sicily. Themed “Culture and Traditions,” we shared many wonderful activities and lots of laughter. We were especially impressed by the Italian interpretation of the Danube Waltz:-) With beautiful autumn weather, the trip to Salzburg was another highlight. And once again, we realized: English is incredibly important – language connects us all!

In early December, we had the pleasure of welcoming our Czech partner school from Brno, which came for a return visit to the fourth-grade classes. As the two groups of students were already familiar with one another, they were able to work intensively and productively on the project “Austrian Adventure for Czech Students – From Moravia to the Alps.” Perfect weather provided the ideal finishing touch to the mobility.
incoming visit

We are confident that this partnership will continue in the future.

Between 15-19th of December, a group from Crete and a group from Spain visited our upper secondary students. Alongside the festive Christmas atmosphere, attending our school’s Advent concert together was a particular highlight.

The diverse program of all mobilities offered numerous opportunities for intercultural exchange and in-depth collaboration in mixed student groups. Joint workshops, lessons, and excursions strengthened not only language skills but also mutual understanding. The encounters were characterized by openness, curiosity, and warmth, leaving lasting impressions on everyone involved.

We hope you see you again in 2026!