5 May 2026
The second meeting of the HUPE Split Branch in the 2025–2026 school year was held on 4 May 2026 at OŠ Pujanki in Split, bringing together English teachers from across the region for an afternoon of professional exchange, learning, and reflection.
The agenda included
- HUPE news: Anita Lasić
- Marina Štambuk Poparić – From New York to Your Classroom: Innovative Teaching Ideas and Scavenger Hunt Activities
- Sandra Jovišić: Recharge to Teach: Teacher Wellbeing in Focus
- Marija Čarija Agoli i Ana Kodrić Ivelić: Mentalno zdravlje kao jedan od ciljeva razvoja OŠ Pujanki
The meeting was organised by Anita Lasić, who opened the session with a presentation of the latest HUPE news and updates. Participants were informed about current activities within the association, future plans, and opportunities for professional development, reinforcing the importance of collaboration and continuous learning within the teaching community.
The first workshop, delivered by Marina Štambuk Poparić, was titled “From New York to Your Classroom: Innovative Teaching Ideas and Scavenger Hunt Activities.” Drawing on her professional training experience in New York, the presenter introduced a range of modern, student-centred teaching approaches. She demonstrated how creative and digital tools can be effectively integrated into English language teaching to enhance student engagement. A central element of the workshop was the Scavenger Hunt activity, presented as an interactive and dynamic strategy that encourages collaboration, critical thinking, and active participation. Through practical examples and hands-on ideas, participants were provided with ready-to-use materials and inspired to adapt these approaches to their own classrooms.
The second workshop, “Recharge to Teach: Teacher Wellbeing in Focus,” was led by Sandra Jovišić. This session highlighted the crucial role of teacher wellbeing, emphasising that it encompasses physical, mental, and emotional health. The presenter addressed the challenges teachers face in managing stress and pointed out how these challenges directly influence both their professional performance and overall quality of life. Particular attention was given to the development of personal and social competencies, ongoing mental health care, and the responsibility of teachers as role models for their students. Research findings were discussed, identifying interpersonal relationships and cooperation with parents as major sources of stress, often leading to burnout. However, the workshop also offered practical solutions, demonstrating how self-care strategies, fostering a positive working atmosphere, and strengthening collaboration can significantly reduce stress levels and improve job satisfaction.
The final presentation, delivered by Marija Čarija Agoli and Ana Kodrić Iveljić, focused on “Mentalno zdravlje kao jedan od ciljeva razvoja OŠ Pujanki.” This session showcased examples of good practice implemented at OŠ Pujanki, with a strong emphasis on promoting mental and physical health among students. The presenters shared a variety of activities centred on mindfulness, healthy lifestyle habits, and the importance of hobbies in maintaining wellbeing. In addition to theoretical insights, participants engaged with practical exercises that can be easily incorporated into everyday teaching. Special attention was given to raising teachers’ awareness of their own mental health and equipping them with strategies to support students in developing healthy habits and emotional resilience. The session encouraged the exchange of experiences among participants and provided concrete ideas for integrating wellbeing-oriented activities into the classroom.
Overall, the meeting successfully combined professional development with personal reflection, addressing both innovative teaching practices and the essential topic of wellbeing in education. It provided participants with valuable tools, fresh ideas, and renewed motivation, while also strengthening the sense of community among HUPE members.
Anita Lasić
HUPE Split Branch President
