Rooted in Earth – An Experiential Training on Nature, Sustainability, and Land Art

Designing and Facilitating Intercultural & Collective Creations for Youth’s Well-being and Awareness

 

What is “Rooted in Earth”?

“Rooted in Earth” is a 5-day Erasmus+ training course taking place in the beautiful Dordogne region of southwest France. From June 2nd to 6th, 2025, this unique experience brings together 15 young people from across Europe to explore the powerful connection between nature, sustainability, and creativity—through the inspiring practice of Land Art.

Participants will take part in engaging workshops, outdoor activities, and collaborative art projects aimed at raising environmental awareness and building key skills such as creative thinking, teamwork, leadership, and intercultural exchange. This training also encourages reflection on how to lead youth projects and supports personal and collective growth within the international youth community.

 

Objectives of the Training

The main goals of the project are:

  • To deepen environmental awareness through creative and nature-based activities
  • To explore Land Art as a meaningful tool for expressing ecological concerns
  • To support intercultural dialogue and collective creativity
  • To develop skills such as teamwork, leadership, initiative, and peer learning
  • To inspire participants to take active roles in their communities and future international projects

 

Methodology

This training is grounded in non-formal education and uses experiential and participatory methods. Key components include:

  • Land Art workshops: Learn how to create ephemeral art using natural materials and techniques.
  • Nature-based experiences: Engage in observation walks, sensory exploration, and environmental discovery.
  • Group projects: Collaborate with others to co-create, make decisions, and solve problems creatively.
  • Peer learning: Take on rotating leadership roles and learn from one another’s experiences.
  • Daily reflection: Share feedback, connect personal insights with broader topics, and grow as a team.

By the end of the training, participants will have the tools and inspiration to use these methods with their own groups, such as in youth exchanges, ESC projects, or volunteer camps.

 

Project Details

  • Dates: June 2–6, 2025 (including travel days)
  • Location: St Sauveur de Bergerac (24520), Dordogne, France
  • Participants: 15 young people (aged 18+) from 5–6 different countries, 3 from Estonia
  • Trainers: 2 experienced facilitators from Sem&Vol
  • More info: https://semetvol.wixsite.com/semetvol

 

Accommodation and Hosting Conditions

The training will be held at Gîte de l’Émeraude, a group accommodation located in the heart of a beautiful equestrian center, surrounded by forest paths and horses.

Facilities include:

  • A large dormitory with 5 bedrooms (total of 30 beds)
  • 4 showers + 1 accessible shower, 4 WCs, and 4 washbasins
  • Fully equipped kitchen and a large communal space for activities
  • Free-time fun: pool table, table football, ping pong, trampoline, and outdoor terrace
  • Note: The site is accessible for persons with reduced mobility

Important! Please bring:

  • Your own sleeping bag and pillowcase
  • Towel and personal toiletries
  • A local treat from your country for the international aperitif
  • Ideas for games and energizers
  • Good mood and enthusiasm!
  • Please note: There is no Wi-Fi at the venue

Meals will be prepared by a team of volunteers. Participants are expected to contribute to daily cleaning and tidying tasks—this is part of the collective living experience that supports shared responsibility and community spirit.

 

Travel Information

Arrival:

Participants must arrive at Bergerac Train Station on June 2nd between 6:30 PM and 8:00 PM.

Departure:

Departure from Bergerac Train Station should be scheduled on June 6th between 7:30 AM and 9:30 AM.

Note: Transfers between the train station and the venue will be arranged by the organizing team.

 

Travel Reimbursement

Participants will be reimbursed for their travel costs according to Erasmus+ distance bands, and only for travel on the official travel days (June 2 and June 6, 2025).

Reimbursement Rates:

  • 100–499 km = €211
  • 500–1999 km = €309
  • 2000–2999 km = €395
  • 3000–3999 km = €580
  • 4000–7999 km = €1188

Important Conditions:

  • All original travel documents (tickets, invoices, boarding passes) must be collected and submitted to the sending association (SA).
  • Reimbursements will be handled by the SA, who will submit the full group’s documents to Sem&Vol.
  • Reimbursement will only be possible after the project ends, upon submission of all required paperwork.
  • No valid documents = no reimbursement.

This training is hosted and coordinated by the Sem&Vol Association, which will provide a welcoming, supportive, and dynamic learning environment throughout the program.

Let nature inspire you, creativity guide you, and community empower you!

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