Erasmus+ HEROES Project – Day 4: COP Day in Quimper

12 maart 2026

Our fourth day in Quimper was the emotional heart of the Erasmus+ HEROES week—a day that reminded us not only of the urgent need for sustainable solutions, but also of the well‑being of the young people who will one day carry those solutions forward.

Starting With What Matters: Mental Health

The morning opened with an honest and necessary conversation about mental health. Throughout the week, pupils had shared their thoughts and concerns and one project group had centred its SDG commitments specifically on improving support for young people. Their proposals called for:

• teachers across Europe to receive training on recognising and supporting pupils struggling with mental health;
• calm, dedicated spaces in classrooms where students can take a moment to decompress when stress becomes overwhelming.

It was a thoughtful reminder that sustainability includes sustaining ourselves—a message very much in line with the spirit of Erasmus+ and TTO, where care, empathy and international understanding shape the learning environment.

Finalising commitments for the COP

After this grounding start, all groups returned to their SDG work, refining their four commitments ahead of the afternoon’s COP simulation. Every team approached the challenge differently, drawing on creativity, critical thinking and a week of hands‑on learning. This collaborative work brought us right up to lunchtime, after which some final practice runs were made before departing for the grand venue.

The COP at the Seat of Power for Finistère

In the early afternoon, the multinational delegation arrived at the Provincial capital in Finistère, where the official COP would take place. The atmosphere shifted immediately—this was a moment of significance.

The winning COP banner, designed by one of the eleven groups and democratically chosen, hung proudly at the front. Cameras were set up, as the importance of this moment had not gone unnoticed by the local community.

The COP itself was strikingly hopeful. Listening to the pupils outline their commitments, it became clear that despite the challenges facing our planet, there remains a generation full of imagination, courage and conviction. Their ideas were both insightful and self‑aware: several groups recognised that while their solutions were promising, too many were still short‑term and needed continued development to become truly sustainable. This honest reflection was powerful, offering us adults a genuine sense of optimism for the future.

Breton dancing

With the serious work completed, the afternoon transformed into a joyful cultural celebration. Pupils learned traditional Breton dances and soon the entire classroom was thundering with laughter and footsteps as we galloped in circles to the sound of bagpipes and regional instruments. It was a lively reminder that Erasmus+ is as much about cultural exchange as academic learning.

A Festive final evening

The day concluded with a beautifully prepared buffet by the local hotel school, followed by a farewell party. Pupils from all three countries danced, talked, took photos, and soaked up their last evening together—friendships strengthened, horizons broadened, languages shared.

As we prepare to leave for Paris tomorrow and then home, emotions are running high. The farewell is bittersweet.

Adieu Quimper, et merci beaucoup—vous resterez dans nos cœurs.