Job shadowing experience: benefits and what it actually looks like

One of the most powerful ways for teachers to learn and grow is to see how education works in other countries. Erasmus+ gives teachers this opportunity through job shadowing. These experiences are not just about traveling — they are about learning, sharing, and building strong professional connections across Europe.

Let’s explore how Erasmus+ job shadowing for teachers in Croatia benefits teachers, schools, and the whole education system.

What is Job Shadowing?

Job shadowing is an experience is fully adapted to match the participant’s interests and can be done on any educational topic and in any educational institiution – from kindergarten, elementary, secondary school, university, or adult education.

Erasmus+ Glossary of terms defines Job shadowing as a practical learning experience or “stay at a partner organisation in another country with the aim of receiving training by following practitioners in their daily work in the receiving organisation, exchanging good practices, acquiring skills and knowledge, and/or building long-term partnerships through participative observation.”

https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/programme-guide/part-d/glossary-common-terms?

Why Job Shadowing Matters: Key Benefits

Job shadowing allows teachers to observe lessons, see how administration works, and understand assessment methods. They can ask questions, take notes, and reflect on what they see.

Sharing Knowledge and Experience

These experiences are not only about learning from others. They are also about sharing what you know. When teachers visit schools, they talk about their own teaching methods, classroom strategies, and challenges. This exchange of ideas helps both sides grow.

For example, a visiting teacher might show how they use digital tools in the classroom. In return, the host teacher may explain how they organize group work or give feedback to students. This sharing of experience is very valuable for everyone.

Learning New Ways of Working

Through school visits and job shadowing, teachers get the chance to see different systems in action. They might learn:

• How other schools plan lessons and prepare materials
• How teachers assess students in different ways
• How schools support students with special needs
• How administration is managed more efficiently
• How sustainability or digital tools are implemented
• How teamwork is encouraged among staff

These observations can give teachers new ideas to try in their own schools. Even small changes can have a big effect on teaching quality and student motivation.

Asking Questions and Reflecting

One of the best parts of Erasmus+ visits is the chance to ask questions directly. Teachers can talk openly with their hosts, ask why they do things a certain way, and discuss what works or doesn’t. This kind of conversation helps teachers reflect on their own practice and find new solutions to old problems.

Building a Professional Network

During Erasmus+ visits, teachers often meet many people, not just their hosts, but also other visiting teachers, school leaders, or experts. These contacts can grow into a professional network that lasts for years. Some schools continue working together on future Erasmus+ projects, student exchanges, or online collaborations.

Personal Growth and Motivation

Teachers who take part in Erasmus+ activities often return home with more energy, new ideas, and greater confidence. Seeing different ways of working helps them feel inspired and motivated. It also reminds them that they are part of a bigger European education community.

A Win-Win for Everyone

In the end, Erasmus+ job shadowing is beneficial for both sides. Visiting teachers learn from new experiences, while host schools get fresh perspectives and ideas from their guests. Students also benefit because their teachers come back with improved skills and wider worldviews.

Conclusion

Erasmus+ job shadowing give teachers the chance to learn, grow, and connect. By observing, sharing, and reflecting, teachers improve not only their own practice but also bring positive change to their schools. These experiences create a stronger, more united European education system — one where teachers support each other across borders.

 

Job shadowing: participants can spend a period of time at a hosting organisation in another country with the aim of learning new practices and gathering new ideas through observation and interaction with peers, experts, or other practitioners in their daily work at the hosting organisation.

https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/programme-guide/part-b/key-action-1/mobility-adult

How to Participate in Erasmus+ Job Shadowing

To participate in a job shadowing experience through Erasmus+, certain requirements must be met. These ensure that the activity is beneficial for both the participant and the host organisation. Here’s a summary of the key requirements:

1. Eligible Participants

Job shadowing is open to staff involved in the education and training sectors, including:

• Teachers and trainers
• School leaders
• Other educational staff

Participants must be employed by an organisation that is part of the Erasmus+ Programme. This includes institutions in school education, vocational education and training (VET), adult education, and higher education. erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu

2. Duration of the Activity

The job shadowing period can last from 2 to 60 days, depending on the objectives and arrangements between the sending and hosting organisations

3. Hosting Organisation

The host must be a recognised organisation in another Erasmus+ Programme country. This can be a school, training centre, or other relevant institution involved in education and training. erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu

4. Application Process

Participation requires an application for Erasmus+ funding, typically submitted by the sending organisation. The application should outline the objectives, expected outcomes, and how the job shadowing aligns with the participant’s professional development goals.

5. Learning Objectives and Outcomes

The job shadowing experience should have clear learning objectives, such as:

• Observing different teaching methods
• Understanding administrative processes
• Exchanging best practices
• Enhancing language skills

Participants are expected to reflect on their experiences and consider how to apply new insights in their own work environments .

6. Certification and Dissemination

After completing the job shadowing, participants should receive a certificate acknowledging their participation. They are also encouraged to share their experiences and the knowledge gained with their colleagues and the institution.

Experience Job Shadowing with Us in Croatia

Our Erasmus+ Job Shadowing programme in Croatia offers a tailor-made experience designed around your professional interests and goals. You’ll visit local schools, connect with passionate educators, and gain authentic insight into Croatian education — all while enjoying the culture and natural beauty of the region. Whether you’re interested in inclusive education, digital tools, or school leadership, we’ll match you with the right setting and people to make your visit meaningful.

🔗 Ready to start your journey? Contact us here to learn more and book your experience.