Erasmus+ project’s “Young Entrepreneuers – Learning by Experience” 2nd study visit took place in Mazsalaca’s Secondary school from 3rd to 11th May. Mazsalaca Secondary school hosted guests from partner schools in Tamsalu in Estonia, Volos in Greece, Mechelen in Belgium and Moimenta da Beira in Portugal.

            The visit started with an introduction to Riga. On the 4th May guests had a chance to learn about Latvian history and the meaning of independence by visiting “The corner house” (KGB) and different events in Riga. After that followed a day dedicated to entrepreneurship around Valmiera. In the time of the visit guests got to know our school, went to some classes. One day was devoted to the homework presentations which helped us to learn what each school has done for the project. The schools had organised different workshops for the students, one of which sold the self-made items and spent the money on paints so they could improve their school’s rooms.

            The guests at our school and the participants of the project had a chance to try making soap and wax candles, which they kept as souvenirs. Workshops were splendidly held by student entrepreneuers Diāna Varga, Aleksandra Kauliņa, Mārcis Stepanovs and Matīss Puķulauks, thanks to their teacher Kaspars Vāle. The participants were just as happy about the chance to make their own silver jewellery at Baltu Rotas and a cane at a cane workshop in Sigulda. Thanks to Staicele weaver house for the opportunity to try weaving and the chance to see their ‘artwork’.

            Participants of the project went on learning trips to get to know the local entrepreneuers, get some ideas that they can give further in their own schools. Thanks to Maer Ltd in Mazsalaca, Aloja-Starkelsen Ltd, “Lielkalni” farm in Ungurpils, captain Vairis in Staicele and Helmuts Bondars for the video stories.

            On the last day of the visit participants were working on presentations and watched a mother’s day concert. In the evening participants shared their experience and impressions: food and eating habits are different; Latvia has nature; people take care of the environment, it is very neat. Students said that they liked the classes as well as just spending time together, both – by the sea, and in Mazsalaca. Locals admitted that the little town seemed more lively with 17 foreign students.

            Thank you very much to host families and the employees of school for the co-operation both – getting ready for the project and hosting the guests.