For 8 days, an international training course "Environmental Training for Eco-Trainers" was held on the Island of Rügen, Germany between the 20th and the 28th of March 2015. The course hosted 35 representatives of NGO's from 12 different countries: Germany, Spain, UK, Latvia, Czech Republic, Armenia, Georgia, Albania, Romania, Serbia, Moldova and France. The project was organised by FÖJ-Aktiv with the support of YEE.

The idea for "Environmental Training for Eco-Trainers" began because the team knew there was a shortage of young trainers. Despite there being a well networked group of environmentalists within Youth and Environment Europe, very few had an appropriate set of skills to disseminate the knowledge of their specialisations using non-formal educational methods.

Providing a trainer's skill set gave the participants the methodologies and competences to effectively structure the planning, delivery and evaluation of their own non-formal training courses. The discussions and activities not only taught about training but also aimed to inspire and motivate individuals to collaborate and create new projects which would be delivered through local or international NGOs.

The sessions themselves focused on topics such as project planning, team building, group dynamics and leadership skills. These skills were practised in the development of trial sessions in which were presented at the conclusion of the course. During the evening games and networking were all part of a very enjoyable learning experience.

The experience these different individuals take home will help create a "pool of eco-trainers". This pool can now be called on for advice, feedback or even employment. Having such a lasting impact is very important and the impact will be maximised with activities after the course such as writing a publication, and providing feedback to the new courses which undergo the design process.

On the free afternoon there was the opportunity to hike to the coast or even ride horses on the farm which was our venue. The horses were a rare breed, and the farm itself kept and bred the rare varieties of farm animal. Additionally, a set of parkour ropes, a fire circle, and a well furnished outdoor spacehelped provide the perfect setting for the week's events.

The project was funded by the European Union (Erasmus+ Programme).