International learning experiences and Erasmus+ courses, brought together
by Vestifex and VitaTiim for educators, schools, NGOs, and lifelong learners.
Educator's path: walking towards well-being, resilience and meaningful learning
A five-day outdoor learning programme on Santa Maria Island, Azores.
This course explores well-being, resilience and sustainable ways of working through walking and reflection.
Each day takes place in a different part of the island and focuses on a specific theme: stress and self-regulation, personal pace and boundaries, resources, resilience and integration. Throughout the week, participants develop a personal toolbox of practices they can use in everyday life and work.
This course is for educators, trainers, adult educators, school leaders, youth workers, NGO professionals and others working with people and learning.
It is for those who want to reflect on their own working patterns, recognise signs of overload earlier and explore practical ways to support well-being and resilience in professional life.
What this learning journey offers
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Recognising personal and work-related sources of stress
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Practising self-regulation and recovery
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Exploring personal pace, boundaries and resources
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Strengthening resilience without relying on constant endurance
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Using walking and reflection as tools for learning
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Building a personal well-being and resilience toolbox
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Creating a realistic plan for everyday life and work
Course programme
Each day combines walking, reflection, practical exercises and learning with the group.
Day 1 - Arriving and noticing
Vila do Porto → Praia Formosa, 8 km · 3 hours walking
Focus: Where am I now?
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Welcome and introductions
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Starting the personal toolbox
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Guided noticing and reflection
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Group agreements and intentions
Day 2 - Stress and regulation
Praia Formosa → Baía de São Lourenço, 11.7 km · 4.5 hours walking
Focus: What helps me move through difficulty?
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Recognising stress responses
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Self-regulation practices
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Attention and breathing
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Walking in silence
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Pair and individual reflection
Day 3 - Personal pace and boundaries
Santa Bárbara · Entre a Serra e o Mar, 9.3 km · 2.5 hours walking
Focus: How do I recognise enough?
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Personal pace and overextension
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Needs and boundaries
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Silent walking practice
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Pair work and reflection
Day 4 - Resources and resilience
Bananeiras → Anjos, 8.4 km · 4 hours walking
Focus: What supports me when things are difficult?
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Mapping personal resources
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Resilience and recovery
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Support and connection
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Adding tools to the personal toolbox
Day 5 - Integration
Pico Alto, 6.2 km · 2 hours walking
Designing personal & organisational leadership plans
Focus: What am I taking home with me?
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Reflection
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Completing the personal toolbox
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Exchange of useful practices
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Personal plan for everyday life and work
Location & Dates:
Santa Maria Island, Azores, 22 - 26 June 2027
The programme is implemented in cooperation with the local organiser.
The programme includes approximately 44 km of walking over five days, with daily routes of 6–12 km on moderately challenging terrain. Walking is part of the learning process rather than a sporting goal.
Routes may be adjusted depending on weather, trail conditions and safety. Participants receive practical information and preparation guidance in advance.
Participants receive supportive learning materials in advance.
Participation fee: 450 €