Top tips: how do I start to plan my Erasmus+ project?
We've curated best advice from people who have previously taken part in Erasmus+ and consulted our experts to compile this list. In this chapter, using their own words, we’re looking at how you choose which project is right for your organisation and how you get participants signed up.
1. Choose the right people to be involved
“The success of the project depends on having the right person leading the application and delivery. Applicants should have direct involvement and a strong understanding of the project to ensure authenticity, integrity and that all programme criteria are fully met. It is also essential that the applicant has the full support and engagement of the institution they represent, ensuring the project is appropriately resourced, safe and effectively managed.
The selection of dedicated accompanying staff is fundamental to the success of the project. Staff need the time, capacity, expertise and passion required to support participants throughout the experience. The role can be challenging and demanding, but also highly rewarding and provides a valuable opportunity to make a lasting impact on young people’s personal, academic and sporting development.
Identify participants who are committed, motivated and able to fully engage with the project. Participants should be empowered to contribute to the design of their own personal aims, objectives and goals, ensuring their individual aspirations align with the wider aims of the programme.
Engaging parents and carers (for minors) early is imperative. Providing clear information and securing their support helps ensure that participants have the encouragement, understanding and practical backing needed to gain the maximum benefit from the experience.” South Gloucestershire and Stroud College. (DiSE) Diploma in Sporting Excellence students
“If someone is considering applying, I’d say: build a strong network of partners, involve young people from the start, and be ambitious. Erasmus+ gives you the framework to improve your life and make friends for life.” Managing Director | IVOLO
2. Brainstorm your ideas - and include your target audience
“The project theme was suggested by a team member and we developed it from that point. We decided on a partnership of four organisations and floated our ideas to colleagues we already knew across the EU.
Begin with project ideas and seek as many opinions as possible including from the young people who will be your 'target group’. What is it you want to achieve? Next see how your ideas fit with the EU priorities for Erasmus Plus as well as your team. Then find the connection between your project ideas, your organisation’s objectives, and relevant national or local policies. Then start to shape a project plan in your own format, and add details of outcomes, targets, measures, and how you will disseminate the results. Pay particular attention to how you will involve and benefit young people with fewer opportunities. At this point, you can begin to decide what kind of project it will be (KA1 or KA2) and what the main activities will be, and how long it might last. Look for support and advice from the British Council but also think about other sources such as Inter>Com: (https://www.intercom.org.uk/erasmusplus-2). Ray Kirtley | Global Learning Association
3. Involve your project partners in the planning
Remember you will need EU partner organisations to make your project happen so involve other organisations from early on in the project planning, there are partner finding databases to help locate interested partners.” Ray Kirtley | Global Learning Association
4. Link your project to clear aims
Where possible, the project should be clearly linked to relevant qualification aims and delivered by appropriately qualified staff, including assessors where applicable. This ensures that valuable opportunities for authentic, real-time learning, evidence collection and assessment are fully maximised. South Gloucestershire and Stroud College. (DiSE) Diploma in Sporting Excellence students
5. Focus on the needs of your participants
“We decided on our project by focusing on the needs of the adult learners we support and the areas where international learning could strengthen our work. WFASC CIC identified digital inclusion, global literacy, and community learning as priorities, so we looked for international training opportunities that aligned with these goals. We engaged with United Nations learning platforms, WTO e‑learning, and ESCWA digital innovation programmes because they offered high‑quality content relevant to our mission.” Waltham Forest Adult Skills Centre CIC (WFASC CIC)
6. Make sure everyone understands their role
“Effective time management and organisation are critical from the outset. Comprehensive planning before the project begins ensures that all stakeholders understand their roles, responsibilities and expectations, reducing potential risks and supporting a smooth and successful delivery. South Gloucestershire and Stroud College. (DiSE) Diploma in Sporting Excellence students
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"Begin with project ideas and seek as many opinions as possible including from the young people who will be your 'target group."
If you’ve taken part in Erasmus+ in the past, why not share your own tips.