Blueberries and Other Small Wonders

Hiking trips in Year 7 are a central pillar of Salem’s educational approach. At a stage marked by intense physical and emotional change, students need real challenges through which they can develop self-confidence, perseverance and a sense of responsibility. At the same time, being out in nature strengthens the class community and has a positive effect on group dynamics.

How does a teacher of German as a foreign language end up joining a class’s outdoor days?

In a round email to all colleagues, a female chaperone was sought at short notice to accompany the Year 7 students on their four-day hiking trip in the Bregenzerwald. On the evening before departure, I decided on the spur of the moment to say yes.

What do you experience with thirteen students – away from comfort and digital routines – on a route that takes them from Bad Laterns to the Freschen mountain hut, on to the Franz Josef House in Fontanella, and the following day over the Schluchtensattel to Oberdamüls and back again?

I saw children who mastered very demanding hikes in breathtaking landscapes, who supported one another, helped and looked out for each other. How often does a 13-year-old boy voluntarily carry an extra rucksack for a classmate who has fallen?

I enjoyed the children’s joy and laughter as they stuffed blueberries into their mouths and laughed at their blue tongues and lips.

Children who spent four days without their phones, invented games, explored caves and staged wild pillow fights in the dormitory.

I saw children who, after a challenging 16-kilometre march, had never before looked forward so much to a hot shower and a plate of “Schniposa” (schnitzel with chips and salad).

I am grateful that I was able to spend these four days with the Year 7 students and with such wonderful colleagues. Experiencing just how valuable and important our educational work is was my personal highlight at the start of the 2025 school year.

This is exactly where the school’s developmental stage concept comes into play, understanding learning as a process rooted in experience. Simple accommodation and the conscious act of being out in nature shape these outdoor days and make tangible the impact of holistic education. Through adventure, responsibility and outdoor activities, individual potential is nurtured, while personality, community and inner confidence are strengthened – very much in keeping with the motto of Schule Schloss Salem: “Plus est en vous!”

By Simone Maurer, teacher of German and German as a foreign language
and Petra Spielvogel, Head of the Science and Technology Department; teacher of Science and Technology, Physics and Sport