The cycle of seven (7) two-hour training sessions on school mediation, conducted within the framework of the Network “SYN: I Act – I Engage – I Create” as a student- centered practice for the peaceful resolution of conflicts, was successfully completed with the participation of 17 educators from 12 schools of the Directorate of Secondary Education of Eastern Attica during February and March 2026.
The training focused on the application of the Harvard Negotiation Project in
educational practice, highlighting the importance of shifting from “positions” to the “interests” and needs of the parties involved. At the same time, the training
extensively incorporated theatrical and dialectical techniques, presenting them as essential tools for conflict management and the cultivation of empathy within the school community. Through experiential activities, such as dramatizations of real school incidents, forum theatre, frozen images, the alley of consciousness fishbowl, concentric circles and the hot seat, the educators had the opportunity to explore multiple perspectives, express emotions, understand the needs of the parties in depth, and develop skills in active listening, critical thinking, and collaborative problem-solving.
Additionally, participants were introduced to the EAR methodology within the framework of the European program “ACAδIMIA – European Teachers’ Academy for Creative and Inclusive Learning”, which enhances creative learning and participatory approaches to conflict resolution, utilizing theatre and dialogue techniques to foster empathy and collaboration.
The training acted as a catalyst for professional growth, encouraging educators to reflect on their practices and adopt more participatory, experiential, and democratic approaches in teaching and school management. Particularly important was that theatrical and dialectical techniques proved to be flexible tools with multiple applications, usable not only in school mediation but also in teaching, skills workshops, and school programs, contributing to the creation of an active, collaborative, and inclusive learning environment.
Upon completion of the program, participants are equipped to design and implement school mediation programs in their schools, support students in distinguishing between people and problems, guide them in developing mutually beneficial solutions based on fairness and respect, enhance students’ social, emotional, and ethical skills, and apply the stages and principles of the school mediation process.
The training sessions were conducted and coordinated by Corinna Pertsinidou,
Coordinator of School Programs and Networks at the Directorate of Secondary
Education of Eastern Attica, and an accredited mediator with advanced training in school mediation.
This training initiative is part of the broader actions of the Directorate of Secondary Education of Eastern Attica, which systematically supports educators and promotes practices that contribute to the creation of a safe, democratic, and supportive school environment.
