From March 2 to March 6, 2026, WSEI University hosted an BIP titled “Roots and Wings: Guiding Little Explorers”, preceded by a virtual meeting held on February 26, 2026. The programme, brought together 19 students of pedagogy and psychology from WSEI University and partner universities across Europe.
Participating institutions included: Matej Bel University, University of Rijeka, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, and Universidad Isabel I.
The programme was organised by the Faculty of Pedagogy and Psychology and the Centre of Projects and International Cooperation at WSEI University. Its main objective was to implement a short-term international mobility programme focused on innovative approaches in early childhood education.
Programme Overview
Day 1 – March 2, 2026: ROOTS — The Foundations of Belonging
The programme opened with official welcomes and partner presentations, followed by a lecture by Monika Baryła-Matejczuk on the importance of relationships, safety, and trust in child development. Students then participated in the interactive “Roots Map” workshop, reflecting on their educational backgrounds and aspirations as future educators.
Day 2 – March 3, 2026: ART & THINKING — Creative Exploration
This day focused on creativity and visual thinking in education. Workshops led by Urszula Szuścik and educators from Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw explored art as a language of the child and the use of mind maps in learning processes.
Day 3 – March 4, 2026: LEARNING FROM PRACTICE — Study Visits (Part 1)
Participants visited educational institutions in Lublin, including Przedszkole z Oddziałami Integracyjnymi nr 12, Szkoła Podstawowa nr 27 im. Marii Montessori, and Niepubliczna Szkoła Podstawowa Skrzydła, observing alternative pedagogical approaches in practice. The day concluded with a city tour and an integration dinner featuring traditional Polish cuisine.
Day 4 – March 5, 2026: LEARNING FROM PRACTICE — Study Visits (Part 2)
Students continued their observations and engaged in group discussions, exchanging insights on the role of the child as an active explorer and researcher within alternative education systems.
Day 5 – March 6, 2026: WINGS — The Educator as a Guide and Creator
The final day focused on the role of educators in fostering children’s development. Participants co-created the “Roots and Wings Manifesto” and attended a workshop on digital childhood led by Metin Kocaturk. The programme concluded with certification, interviews, and a collaborative workshop on designing educational spaces led by MA Iwona Iłowiecka.
The BIP programme provided a rich international learning environment, combining theory, creative exploration, and practical experience. It strengthened intercultural cooperation and equipped future educators with innovative tools and perspectives for working with young learners in a rapidly changing educational landscape.