The Active Sister Schools project is entering an exciting new phase as the project partners recently gathered in Madrid to finalize the last details before the launch of the project at schools. With participants from Denmark, Spain, Poland, and Ukraine now onboard, this international initiative is set to unite students from different countries through a series of active challenges, promoting not just physical activity but also cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

At the heart of the Active Sister Schools project is a bold vision: to connect students across borders through movement, fun, and shared experiences. The project brings together schools from four countries—Denmark, Spain, Poland, and Ukraine—and aims to strengthen ties between students in 2nd and 3rd grades by involving them in challenges that are both physical and educational.

60 schools will participate in the 8-month challenge, engaging in physical activities that promote cooperation, cultural exchange, and active lifestyles. It kicked off with an exciting online drawing ceremony on October 1st, where students and teachers will have their first opportunity to meet their international teammates. In total, 60 schools—15 from each country—will be selected to participate in this 8-month-long challenge, running from October 2024 to May 2025.

During the ASSA challenge, participating schools will receive a variety of electronic materials, including videos and printable activity cards, designed to help guide students through the different challenges. The activities will not only focus on physical activity but also serve as an opportunity for students to learn about the traditions, languages, and values of their partner countries. By completing tasks together—despite being in different countries—students from Denmark, Spain, Poland, and Ukraine will build lasting bonds, learning the importance of teamwork and cultural respect.

The initiative holds particular importance for Ukrainian children, many of whom are experiencing the trauma of conflict. The project offers these students a chance to engage in meaningful activities with peers across Europe, providing a sense of normalcy, connection, and support.

The Active Sister Schools project isn’t just about participation—it also offers schools and teachers a unique opportunity to be recognized on an international stage. The winning teams of teachers from the project will be awarded the chance to attend the prestigious Move Congress 2025, a major event in the world of physical activity and health promotion. This reward serves as both an incentive for active participation and an opportunity for teachers to further enhance their skills and knowledge in fostering healthy, active lifestyles in schools.

The project’s significance has been further highlighted by the involvement of UNICEF Poland, which has taken on the Honorary Patronage of the initiative. This partnership underscores the importance of the project, particularly in its focus on supporting children affected by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. UNICEF’s support strengthens the Active Sister Schools initiative's ability to foster well-being and cross-cultural understanding for all involved students, particularly Ukrainian families and children.