WORK PACKAGE 4

Within the project “Supporting Children with Autism through Physical Education” (Project No. ERASMUS+ 2024-1-LT01-KA220-SCH-000246848), Work Package 4, dedicated to the internal and external piloting phase, is approaching its completion. This stage has been essential for testing the effectiveness of the developed approach in practice and for promoting inclusive physical education in schools.

The main objective of this work package has been to foster mutual learning between students with autism spectrum disorders and their peers, strengthening their participation in physical activities. At the same time, both face-to-face and online learning opportunities have been provided for teachers and other education professionals working with these students. An important role was also given to collaboration and exchange of experience through networking and evaluation activities.

Currently, the work package has reached its final stage, with the last piloting activities still ongoing. During this phase, the developed training programme and digital solutions are being tested, involving students, their parents, and teachers. The piloting process has contributed to improving students’ social skills, communication, and cooperation, as well as increasing their level of physical activity.

A particularly important aspect is the intensive work with teachers that is taking place at this stage. Educators are not only learning new methods for working with students with autism spectrum disorders, but also actively testing them in practice. This process supports the development of professional competences and strengthens confidence in implementing inclusive physical education in everyday school settings.

Throughout the project implementation, regular discussions have been held to reflect on the achieved results. Successful approaches have been identified, and areas requiring improvement have been analysed. Based on this feedback, the developed materials and methods have been further refined to ensure they are as effective and practical as possible.

The results achieved within this work package demonstrate significant progress – improved social inclusion, communication skills, and participation in physical activities among students with autism spectrum disorders. At the same time, awareness among teachers, parents, and the wider community has increased regarding the importance of physical activity for the development and well-being of these children.

As this phase comes to an end, it can be concluded that most of the planned activities have been successfully implemented. The final piloting stage provides an opportunity to further refine and consolidate the results, ensuring their sustainability and practical application in the future.