Welcome Weeks

Starting teacher education with well-being in mind

Starting university is an exciting new chapter, but it can also bring uncertainty, stress and many new challenges. Welcome Weeks and Welcome Week Activities at partner institutions across Europe offer student teachers a supportive start to their studies and help them feel connected from day one. Through a variety of activities, students can get to know their university, meet fellow student teachers, exchange experiences and discover where to find advice and support. 

A particular focus is placed on well-being: students are encouraged to reflect on their own well-being, develop strategies for dealing with challenges and recognise the importance of well-being in their future professional lives as teachers. While each institution designs its Welcome Week or activities according to its own context and resources, they all share the idea of creating a welcoming environment where students can connect, feel supported and develop a sense of belonging. 

In this way, Welcome Weeks can lay the foundation for both a positive start to university life and a sustainable approach to well-being throughout teacher education and beyond.

Welcome Week Activities Idea Board

Interested in organizing your own Welcome Week?

TheWelcome Week Activities Idea Board is a collection of practical ideas and tested activities that can be used to design Welcome Weeks and Welcome Week Activities for student teachers. Developed within teff, it brings together contributions from partner institutions across Europe and provides inspiration for creating welcoming, engaging activities with a particular focus on student well-being, connection and belonging.