15 September 2025
London is always a great idea!
The Croatian Association of Teachers of English (HUPE), in cooperation with the Agency for Education and Training, organized a professional development program in London during the spring break for 28 English language teachers from Croatia.
The training lasted five days, during which the participants attended numerous workshops and on-site lectures, while also enjoying the charms of London. Under the expert guidance of Anita Jokić, president of HUPE Croatia, the teachers visited many landmarks and took part in a series of engaging and educational activities. They collected a wealth of useful materials, which they compiled into a handbook that can be used in lessons dedicated to literature, culture, and the civilization of the United Kingdom and London, as well as Britain’s historical impact on the world.
The participants visited Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre with a professional guide and had the rare opportunity to attend a dress rehearsal for the upcoming performance of Much Ado About Nothing.
The lecture Changing Lives Through Music took them through the history of one of the UK’s most iconic concert venues, the Royal Albert Hall, which continues to create lasting memories, transform lives, and inspire people of all ages and backgrounds through music.
An unforgettable visit to Tower Bridge included exploring the history and engineering of this iconic structure and its surroundings through fascinating interactive workshops and interdisciplinary resources.
Languages United from Bath organized an unforgettable challenge in the form of a multi-hour Scavenger Hunt. Like secret agents, the teachers worked in teams on a “treasure hunt,” solving riddles and exploring the sights of Kensington.
With support from the British Council, they visited Reay Primary School, where they were warmly welcomed by headteacher Caroline Andrews. Her lecture Being a Teacher in the UK introduced them to the British education system and current teaching methods. They had the opportunity to observe classes and get a firsthand look at the everyday challenges British teachers face. This also served as a chance to establish connections and potential future collaboration with the school.
Over the course of five working days, they walked 70 kilometers while visiting all of London’s most famous landmarks. A special highlight was a boat ride on the River Thames, accompanied by an entertaining lecture from the charismatic guide, Jordan.
They visited some of the city’s most renowned museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum, the British Museum, the Science Museum, and the Natural History Museum. There was also time for Madame Tussauds Wax Museum and the Sherlock Holmes Museum.
They enjoyed London’s beautiful parks and vibrant markets, including the historic Borough Market in central London, where they were delighted to come across the Taste Croatia stand.
There was no shortage of fun and socializing, with entertaining pub quizzes, and they were especially thrilled by the musical Mamma Mia, performed by an outstanding cast led by the incomparable Mazz Murray.
All in all, it was an unforgettable experience—one that will be fondly remembered and definitely worth repeating, because London is always a brilliant idea!
