FRG26 PSLL Engage-will-Circus training

As part of the Erasmus project focused on the values of Olympism, the students took part in a morning of workshops led by Gwada Circus. This original and dynamic experience aimed to raise students’ awareness of the essential values of sport and Olympism such as perseverance, respect, cooperation, self-improvement, and solidarity.

The morning began with several warm-up sessions on the floor, allowing the students to gradually prepare their bodies for physical activity. Through exercises involving mobility, balance, coordination, and concentration, the participants learned the importance of listening to their bodies, controlling their movements, and working together as a team. These first activities also helped develop self-confidence and group cohesion.

The students then took part in several circus arts workshops. Guided by the instructors from Gwada Circus, they were introduced to different disciplines such as juggling with balls, spinning plates, flower sticks, balancing exercises, and object manipulation techniques. Each activity required patience, focus, and perseverance. Many students had to show strong determination and willpower to overcome their fears, try again after several failed attempts, and gradually improve throughout the workshops.

One of the highlights of the morning was the creation of collective human pyramids. This activity particularly emphasized the values of trust, mutual support, and cooperation. The students quickly understood that they needed to communicate, encourage one another, and work together in order to succeed as a group. Some students had to step out of their comfort zones and demonstrate courage to fully participate, especially when they had to support or be supported by their classmates.

Throughout the workshops, the instructors constantly highlighted the connection between circus arts and Olympic values: respect for others, effort, teamwork, and perseverance when facing challenges. The students realized that success does not depend only on physical abilities, but also on confidence, commitment, and group support.

The morning ended with a presentation session during which each group demonstrated the skills and performances they had learned during the workshops. Despite stress and the difficulty of certain exercises, the students proudly presented their work with enthusiasm and confidence. This final moment of recognition strengthened their self-esteem and gave them a real sense of achievement through effort and perseverance.

This workshop was a highly enriching experience within the Erasmus project. Beyond discovering circus arts, the students developed social, physical, and emotional skills while experiencing the values of Olympism in a concrete and engaging way through collaborative and motivating activities.