Project title: APPRECIATING COMMUNICATION Project background: Besides the imparting of cultural techniques the school´s main task is to support the social and communicative development of our students. The erosion of social as well as cultural values (local, European, international) is accompanied by a brutalization of forms of communication. At the same time children and teenagers with special education needs frequently have a limited self- worth. Including/contrasting local and European aspects (with a particular regard of the inclusive character of the Finnish school system) common values should be worked out and practiced. Project aims (local and European context): - strenghening of the "European idea", preparing our pubils to a globalised community - preparing them to live long learning - supporting innovation ,creativity and inclusive education - ability to apply situational courtesies - avoidance of bad language in everyday language - realising non- appreciative communication - not to use physical violence as means of communication Number and profile of participants: Our small school is attended by children and teenagers of a high level of special needs, moreover there´s a larger number of participants due to the inclusive school cooperation at our school centre. The students are taught on the basis of the curriculum for the higher level of special needs education (Allgemeine Sonderschule/Sonderschule für Schwerstbehinderte/Berufsvorbereitungsjahr an Sonderschulen) as well as on the curriculum of primary education (Volksschule, Neue Mittelschule). Description of activities/ process of project realization: The project aims mentioned above are going to be worked out in the classes including the school cooperation ZIS, moreover there are going to be project- oriented teaching situations. Aspired goals and expected long- term application: Our aim is to improve the self- worth of special needs students on the one hand and on the other hand there should be a better competence of social interaction. In the process students should turn up to be responsible personalities with a local and European awareness.