Day 1: Theoretical Foundations & Digital Tools

The first day covered key theoretical aspects, including:

The first day covered key theoretical aspects, including:

• Civic Engagement for Social Justice – Understanding how to identify societal problems and formulate relevant statistical questions (Limerick & EUC).
• Pedagogical Aspects of STEAM – Exploring design thinking, project-based learning, and STEAM-based approaches to enhance classroom engagement (Limerick & EUC).
• Introduction to Data Science – Learning data management and cleaning techniques, as well as methods for identifying relevant datasets (Münster & Limerick).
• Digital Data Exploration – Hands-on training with CODAP for data visualization and analysis (Münster & Limerick).
• STEAM Scenario 1: Poverty – Participants worked in small groups to explore the first STEAM scenario, applying data analysis to understand poverty-related issues (LSBC & ES).

Day 2: STEAM Scenarios & Classroom Adaptation

The second day focused on practical application and classroom integration:

• STEAM Scenario 2: Climate Change & Drought – Exploring an interactive learning experience related to environmental challenges (LSBC & ES).
• Adapting Scenarios for the Classroom – A collaborative session to refine and implement the STEAM scenarios in educational settings.
• Reflection & Next Steps – Concluding discussions on future applications and project goals (All partners).

This training fostered a deeper understanding of data science in STEAM education and provided valuable tools for integrating data-driven, problem-based learning into classrooms.
 

This inaugural edition highlights key moments from the project’s kick-off meeting, which took place in Münster, Germany, and brought together partner institutions from across Europe. The newsletter outlines the project’s vision, goals, and planned activities, offering a clear picture of how data science can become a powerful educational tool from the early years.
In this issue, you’ll find:

• An overview of the project’s objectives
• Insights into the kick-off meeting and partner contributions
• A summary of upcoming work packages and goals
• Details on how the project will support teachers and students alike

We’re proud to be part of this innovative initiative and look forward to seeing its impact in the classroom.

Download newsletter here

The project focuses on empowering students aged 9–15 with data science literacy through innovative, interdisciplinary STEAM approaches. By equipping teachers and students with the tools to explore real-world issues through data, the project aims to foster active civic engagement and promote social justice from an early age.
The leaflet outlines:

• The core aim and objectives of the project
• The key target groups
• Upcoming opportunities, including teacher development courses and research publications
• Contact details and social media for staying up to date

We’re proud to be part of this forward-thinking initiative.

Day 1: Setting the Foundation

The meeting commenced with a warm welcome and introductions, allowing each partner institution to present their unique contributions to the project. The European University Cyprus (EUC) led a detailed discussion on project management and administrative procedures, ensuring all partners were aligned with the project’s operational frameworks.

Mid-morning, the focus shifted to our core academic mission. MIC led a session on creating a scientific framework for data science education at the school level (WP2), emphasizing innovative approaches to teacher education in STEAM. This session laid the groundwork for transformative educational practices.

In the afternoon, WWU discussed the Teacher Professional Development Course (WP3), followed by LSBC presenting exciting scenarios for STEAM applications in data science education for civic engagement and social justice (WP4). The day concluded with a collaborative brainstorming session, fostering a spirit of cooperation among all partners. The day ended with a guided tour of Münster and a delightful dinner at Gasthaus Lewe.

Day 2: Planning for Impact

The second day began with a review of the first day’s discussions, helping to recalibrate the focus for the day’s agenda. EUC and NKUA spearheaded sessions on the development of the DataScEd4CiEn Platform and Toolkits (WP5) and laid out the framework for research and evaluation (WP6).

A significant portion of the day was dedicated to discussing the project’s quality assurance, evaluation, and dissemination strategies (WP7). The meeting also featured the exciting unveiling of the first draft of our project logo. These discussions highlighted our commitment to maintaining high standards and ensuring impactful dissemination of our work.

The meeting concluded with an open discussion reviewing the sessions and charting out the next steps for the project. This ensured all partners were on the same page and left the meeting with clear objectives for the future.

This kick-off meeting marked not only the beginning of our project but also a beacon guiding us towards impactful collaboration and innovation in STEAM education. We look forward to the journey ahead with great enthusiasm and commitment.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to make strides in enhancing data science education for civic engagement and social justice.

Established in memory of Luther Salakian, a much-loved and respected teacher at The English School, the Salakian Trophy is a two-legged annual hockey competition between the current school team and The English School Old Boys and Girls Association (ESOBGA) team. Mr. Salakian's passion for education and sport continues to inspire both players and spectators, making this event a meaningful tribute to his lasting contribution to school life.

In this year's Second Round, ESOBGA claimed a well-earned victory, following a highly competitive match that showcased impressive skill and teamwork from both sides. The event concluded with a reception at the ESOBGA Club House, where players, graduates, and staff gathered to celebrate the occasion.

The highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the Winner’s Shield by Ms Sylvia Salakian, who honoured her father's memory by awarding the trophy to the ESOBGA team captain in front of a proud audience.

This annual event not only honours the memory of a remarkable teacher but also reinforces the strong ties between the school’s past and present communities. The camaraderie, respect, and school spirit on display truly captured the essence of what The English School represents.

Congratulations to the ESOBGA team on their win, and thank you to all who participated and supported this meaningful tradition. We look forward to the next round and the continued celebration of Mr Salakian’s legacy through sport.

This final session of the year marks the end of an incredible journey filled with inspiring guest speakers, thought-provoking workshops, and lively discussions that have enriched our understanding of Economics beyond the classroom.

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsors –

• The English School for providing delicious pizzas, and
• D.A. Latex Ltd for treating us to a wonderful selection of desserts.

A special thank you goes to our Year 7 Presidents and Committee Members, whose leadership, creativity, and commitment have driven the Society’s success. You will be missed, and we wish you all the best in your next chapter. We look forward to welcoming you back as guest speakers in the near future!

Thank you to everyone who took part this year. See you in September for another exciting season of events, workshops, and inspiring conversations.

Congratulations to Anna Rouva, Philippos Rouva, and Ara Mahdessian on their remarkable achievement! Being selected for this high-level competition is a testament to their mathematical talent, hard work, and unwavering dedication.

Both Anna and Philippos are active participants in the School’s Enrichment Program, where they have continuously excelled and shown exceptional commitment to the study of mathematics.

We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to Mr. Andreas Demetriou for his dedicated mentorship and vital support in preparing these students for such challenging competitions. His guidance has played a significant role in their development and success.

We are incredibly proud of Anna, Philippos, and Ara, and we wish them the very best as they prepare to compete alongside some of the brightest young mathematicians from across the Balkans and beyond!

Led by Mr Evripidou, Business Relationship Manager at ACCA Southern Europe, the session focused on three essential soft skills: Confident Communication, Assertiveness, and Active Listening — all critical elements for success in both academic and professional environments.

With a wealth of experience in the business and financial sector, Mr Evripidou shared valuable insights into how mastering these soft skills can enhance the impact of hard skills. Students participated in interactive discussions and practical exercises, gaining a deeper understanding of how to express themselves with clarity and confidence, engage in meaningful dialogue, and listen actively to build stronger, more respectful relationships.

The workshop served as a reminder that while technical knowledge forms the foundation of any career, it is often the way we communicate and connect with others that determines our effectiveness and growth.

We would like to thank Mr Evripidou and ACCA Southern Europe for their ongoing support in preparing our students for the challenges and opportunities of the modern workplace.

The EGMO is an international competition that celebrates and promotes excellence in mathematics among female high school students. Participants are chosen through a highly competitive national selection process, and Anna’s success is particularly noteworthy as she secured a spot on Cyprus’ four-member national team—competing against students from all high school year groups. This is an extraordinary achievement, especially at such an early stage in her academic journey.

Anna is an active member of the school’s Enrichment Program, where she has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication and talent in mathematics. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to her teacher, Mr. Andreas Demetriou, whose guidance and support have played a key role in her success.

We warmly congratulate Anna on this outstanding accomplishment and wish her the very best of luck as she prepares to compete on the European stage!