TOY - Trainers Online for Youth
This is a reference for Juraj Ištvánffy
The EU Project Design and Project Cycle Management training aimed to build the capacity of educators to design, write, and manage high-quality Erasmus+ KA1 and KA2 projects. It responded to the need for practical knowledge and confidence among teachers who wished to initiate international projects but lacked experience with the application process and project management cycle. The training addressed common challenges such as identifying real needs, structuring objectives, planning activities, and creating measurable outcomes. Through interactive and hands-on sessions, participants learned how to align project ideas with Erasmus+ priorities and ensure sustainability and impact. The course focused on developing both strategic and operational skills—ranging from proposal writing and budgeting to evaluation and dissemination. It directly supported the organization’s mission to promote innovation, quality education, and international collaboration. For the participating institution, the training was a step toward increasing its capacity to access EU funding and develop partnerships across Europe. The program also fit within Erasmus+ goals of strengthening cooperation, building institutional competencies, and supporting lifelong learning among educators. By the end, participants were able to confidently design complete project concepts ready for submission. Overall, the training successfully empowered teachers to transform ideas into structured, impactful Erasmus+ projects.
The target group of the EU Project Design and Project Cycle Management training consisted of teachers, educators, and school staff who aimed to strengthen their skills in Erasmus+ project design and management. The participants were professionals from formal education settings, motivated to bring international opportunities and innovative practices to their schools. The training gathered four adult participants from Romania, each representing different educational backgrounds and institutions. Although their experience with EU projects varied, all shared a strong motivation to gain practical knowledge in writing and managing Erasmus+ KA1 and KA2 proposals. The course was facilitated in an international context, using European best practices and real examples from cross-border collaborations. The small group format created space for individualized guidance, interactive exercises, and focused mentorship tailored to each participant’s project idea. English was used as the working language, helping participants build confidence in communicating and collaborating internationally. Their diverse perspectives enriched discussions on educational needs, project design, and sustainability. The training also encouraged networking and future cooperation with European partners. Overall, the activity successfully engaged a dedicated group of Romanian educators committed to developing their capacity to design and implement high-quality Erasmus+ projects.
The EU Project Design and Project Cycle Management training was based on non-formal learning methods, focusing on interactive, experiential, and collaborative approaches. I used hands-on workshops where participants actively practiced writing project proposals, drafting budgets, and structuring work plans. Case studies and real-life project examples were analyzed to help participants understand best practices and common challenges in Erasmus+ projects. Group discussions and peer feedback sessions allowed participants to review each other’s ideas and reflect on different approaches. Role-playing exercises simulated project submission and evaluation processes, providing practical experience in navigating deadlines and requirements. Brainstorming and idea-mapping techniques helped participants generate innovative project concepts aligned with Erasmus+ priorities. Reflection exercises and guided questioning encouraged participants to connect theory with their own institutional needs and capacities. Step-by-step project cycle exercises enabled participants to practice planning, implementation, and evaluation in a controlled, supportive environment. Interactive Q&A sessions ensured that participants’ individual questions and challenges were addressed in real time. Overall, the methods combined active participation, peer learning, and practical application to ensure participants gained tangible skills for successful project design and management.
The EU Project Design and Project Cycle Management training successfully equipped participants with practical skills to design, write, and manage Erasmus+ KA1 and KA2 projects. Participants reported increased confidence in navigating the application process, structuring project ideas, and managing budgets and timelines. They developed concrete project proposals during the training, demonstrating their ability to apply the learned methods directly. Feedback forms showed high satisfaction, with participants highlighting the practical, hands-on approach as particularly effective. The interactive exercises and real-life examples allowed participants to gain experience they could immediately implement in their institutions. The small group size enabled personalized mentoring, ensuring that each participant left with actionable knowledge and strategies. The training also strengthened professional capacity within their schools, empowering them to lead future Erasmus+ projects. The ongoing communication between participants after the course indicates the lasting impact of the learning experience. The project was documented through a training report and materials shared with the Romanian institutions involved. Overall, the activity successfully built both professional competence and confidence, enabling participants to actively participate in European educational projects.
In the EU Project Design and Project Cycle Management training, I served as the full-time main trainer and facilitator, responsible for guiding participants through the entire learning process. I designed the training program, ensuring it covered all stages of Erasmus+ project design, from idea generation to project cycle management and evaluation. I facilitated hands-on workshops, practical exercises, and case studies, helping participants develop their own project proposals and budgets. I also led group discussions, peer feedback sessions, and role-playing activities, providing guidance and support tailored to each participant’s needs. Throughout the training, I ensured that non-formal learning methods were applied to promote active participation, experiential learning, and peer-to-peer exchange. I monitored progress, addressed individual questions, and adapted sessions in real time to optimize learning outcomes. Before the training, I supported participant selection and preparatory communication with the partner institution. I also oversaw evaluation and documentation, producing a final report summarizing outcomes and recommendations. My role combined educational design, facilitation, and personalized mentoring to maximize the impact of the training. Overall, I was fully responsible for ensuring that participants gained the skills, confidence, and practical knowledge to successfully manage Erasmus+ projects.