KA1 VET - "VET Training in Cooking for Students with Special Educational Needs" - Plovdiv, April 2023

In April 2023, the Erasmus+ KA1 VET project “VET Training in Cooking for Students with Special Educational Needs” brought educators from the Bulgarian special education centers of Plovdiv and Gabrovo to Italy. This initiative aimed to enhance vocational training for students with special educational needs (SEN) by exploring innovative practices and fostering international collaboration.

The program included a visit to Ristoro Primavera, a small restaurant in Meina, Lake Maggiore, where young people with Down syndrome cook and serve meals. The delegation enjoyed a delicious lunch prepared by the talented young chefs and engaged in discussions with parents from the Association of Parents of Down Children, local experts from Associazione Luce, and educators from Bulgaria. This experience highlighted the importance of providing individuals with SEN the opportunity to develop their skills and gain meaningful employment, reinforcing the belief that everyone has the right to work and grow.

Another highlight of the program was an introduction to Baskin, an inclusive sport from Castelletto Sopra Ticino that adapts to the abilities of all players, including those with complex disabilities. Educators from Plovdiv and Gabrovo were impressed by how Baskin fosters teamwork and inclusion. Inspired by the concept, plans were discussed to bring Baskin to Bulgaria, further expanding opportunities for inclusive recreation.

The Bulgarian delegation also visited the Centro Diurno Brum in Arona, where coordinator Ezia Pernice showcased the center’s daily activities and its numerous projects aimed at enhancing the lives of individuals with SEN. Following this visit, the educators were welcomed at the Arona town hall by Mayor Federico Monti and other local officials, where productive discussions focused on local and national policies, regulations, and practices that support individuals with SEN and their families.

The visit concluded with valuable exchanges about vocational training practices, employment opportunities, and strategies for improving the quality of life for students with SEN. These discussions not only enriched the educators’ understanding but also strengthened the collaboration between Bulgarian and Italian professionals, paving the way for future initiatives to promote inclusion and independence for individuals with SEN.

This project exemplifies the power of Erasmus+ to foster international collaboration, share best practices, and create lasting impacts on vocational education for those with special needs. By combining practical training, inclusive sports, and cultural exchanges, the program provided meaningful insights and inspiration for all participants.