By Kiiu and Hannah (9eu2) 

This is a report of the Erasmus exchange trip to Prague in March 2026. The Erasmus exchange program is organized in partnership between the Schiller Gymnasium and Open Gate School in Babice and funded by the European Union. It is an opportunity available to the ninth and tenth grades and covers a three night stay in the Czech Republic. Schiller Gymnasium students were hosted by the Open Gate boarding school. The trip centered on sustainable architecture and living. 

The architecture: 

Architecture is an essential aspect of our Erasmus exchange trip. 

On Wednesday, the second day of our stay in the Czech Republic, we visited two popular destinations and landmarks in Prague city. These were the Prague Castle and Charles Bridge.

The day began with an immersive tour of the areas surrounding the Prague Castle. This tour was led by the Open Gate School coordinator of the exchange program. It included discussions involving the history of the various buildings, as well as that of their multifaceted architectural styles. This led to the understanding of how influential  the architectural designs are in Prague. We were additionally given the time to absorb and digest the varied and alluring architectural surroundings, e.g. by taking pictures and having a short scavenger hunt. 

On Thursday, we took part in a CAMP Praha tour, where we expanded our knowledge on the subject of architectural history in Prague. We were given the opportunity to watch a short screening on this subject, as well as view a gallery including a timeline of the history of Czech architecture and some broader developments in the city of Prague throughout the years.

Sustainable architecture project:

We began with several tasks on the topic of sustainable architecture, such as using the imaginative scenario technique to picture different possible futures for urban development. This was an evening occupation game.

An additional project was done in groups of 3. The task was to research one existing example of sustainable architecture and create a concise presentation based around it. These were presented on the last day, preceding our departure.

The main project was introduced in a joint workshop on the last day of the trip and continued through digital mobility after the exchange trip itself. Our task was to create our own sustainable building. This project was executed in groups of around 3 to 4 persons, each group containing at least one Czech (from Open Gate School) and one German (from Schiller Gymnasium) student. Each group member had set tasks, which were decided upon alongside the concept of the building itself, on the last day of the stay at Open Gate School.

The activities: 

Throughout our trip to Prague, Mr. Hannon and Ms. Roehl gave us fun - and sometimes challenging - activities to complete. On our first day in Prague City, we were tasked with a scavenger hunt in order to discover our surroundings and find some city highlights. These included different animals, unique sculptures and spotting a German tourist sporting the iconic sandals and socks combination. Though some of the tasks were more difficult to complete than others, most groups managed to finish them all successfully. During the scavenger hunt, we also discovered some beautiful architecture and picturesque views. 

On the second day, we completed a photo challenge while independently touring the city.  The results were unique house façades, such as a vibrant blue flower mosaic and artfully crafted window frames and doors. The activity shone light upon the more quiet but beautiful details that make architecture itself a form of art.

In the evenings, the group would also gather to complete different tasks relating to the trip’s theme. During our free time, we would also use the opportunity to take advantage of the Open Gate school’s large and varied campus. In the main lobby, student groups would often gather to play table tennis, darts, or even pool. Other students enjoyed playing the game Werewolf, while some also opted for the outdoor volleyball field. Overall, the Open Gate school’s differentiated offers provided ample opportunity for students from both Schiller and Open Gate to form bonds and enjoy shared activities. 

Community:

These activities, the time spent together on group expeditions and shared rooms really brought the exchange students closer as a community. Not only were we able to meet Czech students from the Open Gate school, but we also formed connections with Schiller students that we hadn’t been able to get to know before. 

The trip provided so many opportunities for students to bond and get to know one another. Especially the shared rooms and meals brought together a sense of closeness and togetherness. 

Mr. Hannon and Ms. Roehl especially helped cultivate a warm, communal and friendly atmosphere. Even though the trip’s main theme was sustainable architecture, friendship and community were definitely through lines of the three days spent in the Czech Republic.

In conclusion, the trip was an amazing opportunity to get to know the city of Prague and each other better. We are truly grateful to the Open Gate School for bringing such kind and generous hosts and to Mr. Hannon and Ms. Roehl for organizing the trip and making it such an enjoyable experience.