Skills Crafters

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

About the Project

At Skills Crafters, we are committed to equipping young people with the essential life skills they need to succeed in today’s complex world. Our project is designed to bridge the gap between formal education and the practical skills required for personal and professional success.

What is Skill Crafters

Skills Crafters is an educational initiative developed under the Erasmus+ Programme. The project focuses on creating and implementing an innovative methodology to teach young people aged 13-17 the soft skills that are often overlooked in traditional educational systems. These skills are crucial for personal development, building strong interpersonal relationships, and preparing for future careers.

Our Approach

LifeComp Framework

Our project is based on the LifeComp Framework, a European model for essential life skills like self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking. Through Skills Crafters, we’ve adapted this framework into a practical, easy-to-use method that helps young learners build competencies for lifelong success.

Innovative Tools

The cornerstone of our approach is the set of 12 Skills Cards. Each card focuses on a different life skill, offering a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical exercises. These cards are designed to be versatile and adaptable, making them suitable for use in various educational settings—whether in the classroom, during after-school programs, or at home.

Engaging Content: Each Skills Card is packed with activities, reflection prompts, and discussion points, all designed to make learning interactive and meaningful. The exercises encourage students to think critically about their experiences and apply the skills in real-world contexts.
Flexible Use: The Skills Cards can be used individually or in sequence, allowing educators to tailor the learning experience to their students’ needs. Whether focusing on one specific skill or exploring a range of competencies, the cards provide a flexible tool for effective learning.
Practical Application: The methodology ensures that students don’t just learn about these skills—they practice them. Through role-playing, group discussions, and self-reflection, students gain hands-on experience that deepens their understanding and prepares them to apply these skills in their daily lives.

For Educators

We recognize that teachers and youth workers play a crucial role in guiding young people through their educational journey. To ensure they are well-equipped to deliver the Skills Crafters methodology, our project includes customized resources and training aimed at enhancing their ability to teach soft skills effectively.

Engaging Content: Each Skills Card is packed with activities, reflection prompts, and discussion points, all designed to make learning interactive and meaningful. The
Educator Resources: We provide specially designed materials that help educators integrate the Skills Cards into their teaching. These resources include lesson plans, activity guides, and tips for facilitating discussions that encourage critical thinking and personal reflection.
Educator Training: As part of the project, we offer targeted training sessions to familiarize teachers and youth workers with our methodology. These sessions cover how to effectively use the Skills Cards, engage students in meaningful conversations, and foster a supportive learning environment.
exercises encourage students to think critically about their experiences and apply the skills in real-world contexts.
Flexible Use: The Skills Cards can be used individually or in sequence, allowing educators to tailor the learning experience to their students’ needs. Whether focusing on one specific skill or exploring a range of competencies, the cards provide a flexible tool for effective learning.
Practical Application: The methodology ensures that students don’t just learn about these skills—they practice them. Through role-playing, group discussions, and self-reflection, students gain hands-on experience that deepens their understanding and prepares them to apply these skills in their daily lives.

Impact

The Skills Crafters project is dedicated to empowering young people through hands-on learning and real-world experience. Our approach integrates the LifeComp Framework, targeting essential skills for personal growth, mental well-being, and employability. Here’s how each key activity contributes to the project’s long-term impact.

Piloting the Methodology

Overview: In the initial phase, the project piloted the LifeComp methodology with 60 students from Bulgaria and Romania. This piloting tested the 12 custom-designed Skills Cards in a classroom setting, enabling us to refine our tools based on real student feedback.

– Enhanced Skills: Participating students reported significant improvements in self-awareness, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills.

– Positive Response: Educators noted that the Skills Cards were easy to integrate into their curricula, and students found them engaging and practical.

– Real-World Application: The pilot group felt more confident using these new skills in daily situations, from classroom dynamics to social interactions.

Pupil Mobility Program

Overview: The pupils mobility activity provided 20 students (ages 13-17) from diverse backgrounds with an immersive experience in Bulgaria. This program allowed students to practice the LifeComp methodology in real-life settings and apply their soft skills in new cultural contexts.

– Skill Development: Through workshops and group activities, students strengthened critical soft skills such as adaptability, teamwork, and emotional intelligence.

– Cultural Exchange: Exposure to different cultures promoted openness and built students’ resilience, preparing them for a diverse global society.

– Increased Engagement: Feedback showed students felt more motivated to engage with their communities and pursue personal growth goals.

Training for Teachers and Youth Workers

Overview: To ensure the sustainability of the LifeComp methodology, we trained 12 teachers and youth workers in Romania to implement these tools in their educational environments.

– Broader Reach: Trained educators can now effectively guide their students using the LifeComp tools, amplifying the project’s reach beyond the initial 60 students.

– Improved Instructional Skills: Teachers gained practical experience in fostering essential soft skills among students, contributing to their professional development.

– Long-Term Change: With a manual tailored for educators, they are equipped to apply the methodology in diverse settings, creating a lasting impact on their teaching practices.

Multiplier Events

Overview: Four multiplier events (two in Bulgaria, two in Romania) were held, each engaging approximately 25 educators, youth workers, and community stakeholders, totaling 100 participants. These events focused on sharing the project’s methodology and outcomes, encouraging broader adoption.

– Knowledge Dissemination: Attendees were introduced to the LifeComp Framework and the Skills Cards, inspiring new educational approaches.

– Networking Opportunities: The events facilitated connections among schools, NGOs, and community organizations, promoting future collaborations.

– Wider Adoption Potential: By showcasing the project’s success, these events increased interest from additional schools and institutions, extending the project’s benefits to new regions.

Long-term Impact

While the program results are promising, the long-term impact of Skills Crafters lies in its potential to create lasting change. By equipping young people with the skills they need today, we are helping to shape a future generation of confident, capable individuals who are ready to contribute to society.

Our commitment to continuous improvement means that the feedback and results from this project will inform future iterations of our methodology, ensuring that Skills Crafters continues to meet the evolving needs of students and educators.

Skills Crafters is not just a project—it’s a movement toward a more inclusive, skill-focused approach to education that empowers every young person to reach their full potential.

Testimonials

I loved this project and I am very sad that we are leaving....I wish this was longer!

i loved this experience so much! it was so friendly and so fun, i recommend making more Erasmus activities with us.

A wonderful way of bringing students and educators together having the same goal: an educated future. Thank you for this opportunity!

The most beneficial aspect of the project for me was acquiring new skills that I can apply in both my professional and personal life.

Resources

Skills Crafters is not just a project—it’s a movement toward a more inclusive, skill-focused approach to education that empowers every young person to reach their full potential.

Project Consortium

PGSSHVT "Angel Kanchev" - Razgrad

At Dare to Develop Academy Association, we are committed to making the world a better place by offering high-quality opportunities to both youth and adults. Our mission is to empower individuals, equip them with essential skills, and inspire positive change in their communities and beyond.