History, Nature and Creativity in the Åland Archipelago

This course offers an immersive journey into the history, nature and creative traditions of the Åland archipelago. The programme begins in Helsinki, where participants start a scenic multi‑stage trip across southern Finland and through the outer archipelago by ferry, using the travel time for introductions and shared reflection. The course takes place on Kökar, a remote island known for its medieval heritage, maritime culture and rugged landscapes. Participants explore historical sites, practise nature‑based observation, and take part in creative writing sessions inspired by the island’s environment. A full day at Kökar’s primary school provides insight into remote education and everyday life in a small island community. Hiking routes, birdwatching and outdoor tasks deepen understanding of how nature supports creativity and experiential learning. Participants reflect together, compare practices and develop ideas for integrating history, place and nature into cross‑curricular teaching.

Participants will deepen their understanding of how history, nature and place shape learning by engaging directly with the unique environment of the Åland archipelago. Through observation tasks, birdwatching, hiking and visits to historical sites, they will develop skills in nature‑based learning and place‑based pedagogy. Creative writing sessions strengthen the ability to use landscape, heritage and sensory experience as learning resources. A school visit provides insight into remote island education and supports reflection on diverse learning environments. Throughout the week, participants practise experiential learning, enhance their observation and reflection skills, and gain practical methods for integrating creativity, local history and outdoor learning into cross‑curricular teaching.

The course uses experiential learning, where participants learn through direct engagement with Kökar’s landscapes, history and community. Methods include guided observation tasks, birdwatching, hiking, creative writing workshops and discussions that connect nature, heritage and creativity. The journey from Helsinki is used as a structured learning activity, supporting reflection and group connection. A visit to Kökar’s primary school provides insight into remote education and encourages comparison of teaching practices. Learning is supported through place‑based activities, peer exchange and hands‑on exploration. Assessment is continuous and formative, based on participation, reflective notes, creative outputs and contributions to group dialogue. No formal testing is used; instead, emphasis is placed on self‑reflection and applying insights to one’s own teaching.

The course uses basic materials provided by the organiser, such as paper and simple creative tools. Participants use their own phones or laptops to access shared documents and complete reflection tasks. Outdoor activities require comfortable clothing suitable for walking in varying archipelago weather. Local sites, landscapes and the school visit serve as key learning resources.

Course fee: The full programme for the week, as well as the round‑trip journey from Helsinki to Kökar: 500€

Accommodation & Meal Package is booked directly: https://www.brudhall.com/en/hitta-till-kokar-aland/

Price: €668 per person in a double room

Price: €818 per person in a single room.

Included Meals & Services:

- Monday: Dinner

- Tuesday–Thursday: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert, and coffee

- One evening: Jacuzzi and sauna experience

- Friday: Breakfast and lunch