Category: School life

At Avenor College, we had the pleasure of hosting the second edition of the regional stage of the prestigious Oxford Schools’ Debate Competition, one of the largest debating tournaments for high school students in the world.

The event brought together 64 debate enthusiasts from 9 international schools in Romania, who, for one day, put on a true showcase of argumentation, logic, and teamwork. Avenor was represented by 12 enthusiastic students, coached by Louisa Dăscălescu, History and English teacher and the main organiser of the competition.

The stage consisted of three rounds of debates in the British Parliamentary format, and the best two teams qualified for the final in March, hosted by the University of Oxford.

Congratulations to the Avenor team, consisting of Teodora (11 Alfa) and Sonia (11 Omega), who won this round of the competition and will represent our school in the final stage in England!

Just like in the first edition, we were joined by two students from the University of Oxford – Nicole Wong and Alex Chan, from Hong Kong, who study Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE). They explained the rules, judged the competition, and provided valuable feedback to the participants.

Debates and Critical Thinking

In an interview after the competition, Nicole and Alex spoke about the importance of debating, their impressions of the regional stage organised at Avenor, and offered advice to students preparing for university admission.

Nicole: Debating helps students analyse issues from multiple perspectives, think quickly, and express their ideas clearly. These competitions offer them the opportunity to tackle complex topics and develop critical thinking.

Debate Motion

The competition challenged participants with engaging motions on education, representation, and language policy. One motion explored the role of generative artificial intelligence in secondary and higher education, questioning whether it should be integrated as a learning tool or discouraged. Another motion discussed the portrayal of people with disabilities, debating whether presenting their lives as inspirational is beneficial or problematic. The third motion focused on education and language, analysing whether developing countries should adopt a global language instead of their local languages as the main language of instruction.

Alex: Debating helps students to clearly structure their thoughts, even when they have to argue for ideas they don’t necessarily believe in, and it helps them develop their communication skills. Additionally, it raises their awareness of current events, challenging them to reflect on complex issues in today’s world.

Impressions from the Regional Stage at Avenor

Alex: The students at Avenor and in Romania, in general, presented solid arguments and were actively involved in the debates. The level of competition was high, and their critical thinking impressed me.

Nicole: Judging in Romania was an interesting experience, as it gave me a different perspective on how students approach arguments. The unique cultural and educational context made the competition even more captivating.

How Debating Contributes to Personal Development

Nicole: Participating in debate competitions teaches students how to cope with both success and failure, developing their resilience and self-confidence. In debates, you can win or lose, but what matters is your ability to learn from each experience.

Moreover, the competition challenged participants to quickly tackle unfamiliar topics and formulate their arguments on the spot, a crucial skill both in debates and in life.

Conclusions

Reflecting on their experience at Avenor, Alex and Nicole appreciated the dedication and talent of the students, encouraging them to further refine their debate skills. Critical thinking and the ability to present compelling ideas are valuable skills in both academia and students’ future careers. They also offered several pieces of advice for choosing a career path:

🔹 Choose carefully what you want to study – Nicole emphasised the importance of clarifying academic interests. Whether you want a stable career or are passionate about a specific field, choosing a university and programme should align with your objectives. It is also useful to analyse the differences between educational systems, such as the broad curriculum in the USA versus the specialised approach in the UK.

🔹 Constant work and preparation – Alex highlighted the importance of sustained learning, whether for A-Levels, standardised tests, or admission interviews. “Hard work always pays off. Practice helps you understand your strengths and weaknesses, giving you more confidence in the admission process,” he said.

🔹 Time management and avoiding procrastination – Balancing study and leisure time is essential. Alex recommends setting a clear study schedule to avoid procrastination and maintain high-quality work.

🔹 A solid support system – Nicole emphasised the importance of friends and mentors who can provide guidance and motivation. “A good support network helps you manage stress and stay focused on your goals,” she noted.

Andrei, an Avenor graduate from the Class of 2022, is currently in his third year at Harvard, pursuing a double major in Art, Film, and Visual Studies and Economics. The well-rounded profile he built during high school, combined with his passion for film and art, helped him secure a place at one of the world’s most prestigious universities in a year when the acceptance rate was below 4%.

Whenever he returns to Romania, he visits the school, where he is warmly welcomed and excited to share updates about his journey and experiences. 

During his latest visit, he presented us with a special gift – an animated video capturing the essence of what it means to be an Avenorian, featuring an original soundtrack composed by Andrei himself, inspired by his personal experience and academic path.

We invite you to discover more about this project, his life as a Harvard student, and his plans for the future—directly from Andrei.

 

“My years at Avenor were defined by curiosity, enthusiasm, and ambition”

Can you tell us more about the creative process behind the animated video you made for Avenor?

The animation was designed to depict the journey of a child who starts nursery at the age of two and continues their education at Avenor for 16 years, culminating in high school graduation.

The core inspiration behind this project was my personal experience and the strong emotions that connect me to Avenor. My years at the school were shaped by curiosity, enthusiasm, and ambition—qualities that have brought me to where I am today. I wanted to reflect these values through the gestures and flight of the stickman character in the video.

When brainstorming ideas, I sought a simple yet meaningful concept that would be easy to animate. This led me to the universally recognised stickman—a figure every student has drawn at some point. In the animation, a student sketches a stickman in their notebook, which then comes to life, flies out of the school bag, and embarks on a unique journey through the school years. The colours in Avenor’s logo visually illustrate this adventure.

At the end of the journey, as the student graduates, the pencils that shaped and enriched their education transform into the 16 colourful sticks from the Avenor logo. This symbolises both the culmination of their academic journey and the essential elements that contribute to becoming a well-rounded individual.

I chose this representation because it mirrors my own experience—and, I believe, that of every Avenorian. Sports, sciences, arts, and all the projects I was involved in played a crucial role in shaping me as both a student and a person. They not only define the Avenor spirit but also capture the key milestones in every student’s pursuit of knowledge and excellence.

After a complex process combining technical skills and creativity, I successfully completed an animation I am truly proud of—one that I dedicate to the school that had such a profound impact on my life.

For those less familiar with animation, can you give us an idea of the time and resources invested in this project?

Typically, an animation like this is created by a team comprising a director, graphic designers, animators, a sound editor, and a composer. Together, they collaborate with the client to develop a product that aligns with the intended vision and communication goals. Such a project usually takes about two weeks to complete and requires a generous production budget.

Unfortunately, I didn’t have access to such a team or resources, so I created the entire animation from scratch. My goal was to capture both my personal experience at Avenor and the essence of the school’s brand.

To achieve this, I designed my own visual elements by combining digital drawings with royalty-free images. The animation process itself involved complex, simultaneous movements, despite the main character’s simple design. The challenge was to animate the stickman in a way that conveys a wide range of emotions. Once the animation was complete, I composed an original soundtrack to complement both the motion and the emotions portrayed in the video.

In the end, after approximately 80 hours of work and overcoming countless technical challenges, I created a one-minute animation that I hope captures the essence of being an Avenorian.

 

STUDENT LIFE – FROM AVENOR TO HARVARD

What are the biggest advantages and challenges of being a Harvard student?

One of the greatest benefits of attending a university of this calibre is its reputation and the extensive alumni network—both crucial when entering the industry after graduation.

Another advantage is the Liberal Arts education system, which allows students to explore courses beyond their primary field of study. This flexibility is encouraged and often helps students not only learn new things but also discover unexpected passions. Many students arrive at Harvard with a specific study plan, only to realise later that they are more passionate about an entirely different field, leading them to change their academic path.

The biggest challenge, ironically, is the constant pressure to excel. While the Harvard community is both supportive and competitive, the drive to push beyond your limits can sometimes feel overwhelming. However, I firmly believe that diamonds are formed under pressure, and true excellence is achieved through dedication and hard work.

What advice do you have for Year 11 and 12 students who are deciding on their educational path or university options?

Being 17 or 18 can feel overwhelming, as expectations are high and the pressure to make major decisions is intense. The most important thing is to explore as many opportunities as possible. Find what truly excites you, define your expectations for the future, and choose a path that, while challenging, also brings you fulfilment.

Even if these decisions seem difficult to grasp right now, Avenor is a school that can open many doors for you. It’s essential to be ambitious and make the most of the opportunities available. With determination and hard work, you can reach the heights you dream of.

 

FUTURE PLANS

What are you currently working on? What projects are you involved in?

First and foremost, I am creating numerous short films, driven by my passion for filmmaking. Thanks to grants from Harvard’s Office of the Arts, I direct and shoot projects alongside my friends, hoping to submit them to film festivals.

Beyond my academic and extracurricular film-related projects, I’m also beginning to explore economic research. I want to understand the business side of the film industry, which is why I chose to study Economics as well. My goal is to gain the necessary knowledge and experience to navigate the financial and strategic aspects of the industry.

As for sports, I am a member of Harvard’s boxing club and play squash with friends whenever I get the chance. Fortunately, Harvard students have free access to the gym, which allows me to stay active and train regularly.

What are your goals for the near future?

In the coming months, I plan to continue creating short films and refining my creative skills through an internship in the film industry. My ultimate dream is to direct feature films in Hollywood, so I am constantly working on developing both my technical expertise and creative vision to excel in this field.

Where can we watch your projects?

You can find my work on my website or my YouTube channel.

At Avenor, we strive to provide our students with genuine support in choosing their educational path beyond Avenor and selecting a career through a state-of-the-art education and counselling programme, comparable to those offered by the world’s top schools.

As part of our counselling team, Louisa Dăscălescu, a History and English teacher, has recently earned the title of THE Accredited Counsellor—a certification that has granted her access to the latest insights and solutions to help students make informed decisions about their academic and professional future.

We invite you to hear directly from Louisa about her experience and the new approaches she brings to the student counselling process.

You recently became a THE Accredited Counsellor. What motivated you to follow this course?

I believed THE Counsellor Accreditation Programme would give me access to expert opinion and experiences, feedback from schools with growing graduate bodies, and advice on how to best utilise technology to support counselling. It really delivered on what it promised and tackled the challenges students face both presently and in the future in a way that felt both informed and cutting edge. 

What will the future of work look like? How can young people build skills that will help them navigate it? What role does higher education play in this future? How can we reassure and support young people? 

These were some of the key questions the course engaged with that I found particularly compelling. It was also rather reassuring to know that students all over the world have similar questions and uncertainties. 

If we think about how fast technology has developed over the last twenty years, we can begin to understand the difficulty of picking a career when we can only guess what the next twenty years will look like!

 

What are the key challenges students face when choosing a university and career path, and how does Avenor support them in making informed decisions?

As a teenager and (in all likelihood) throughout our lives, it is daunting to choose what direction your life should take, to know whether that choice is ‘right’, and how to filter through an overwhelming number of possibilities. 

American poet and author Sylvia Path presents this challenge through the following metaphor in The Bell Jar: “I saw my life branching out before me like the green fig tree in the story. From the tip of every branch, like a fat purple fig, a wonderful future beckoned and winked…I wanted each and every one of them, but choosing one meant losing all the rest.” 

For Avenor students, our LOTC programme and counselling is focused on helping students be knowledgeable about themselves, their interests and their skills so they are ready to prune their own “green fig tree” with confidence in their aspirations, values, and abilities. We introduce young people to a range of post-18 options and our counselling for higher education is focused on ensuring students find their ‘best fit’ university or institution. Ultimately, we want students to understand they’re making choices for now and not forever; choosing one thing now doesn’t mean losing “all the rest.”

 

How has this accreditation deepened your expertise, and what new insights do you bring to students as they explore their academic and career options?

I’ve been in a career and university counselling role for 6 years: above all else, this accreditation gave me a point of comparison. Listening to lectures, interviews with experts, and projects by counsellors from all over the world helped me assess if what we’re doing at Avenor meets or exceeds the standard of career guidance globally. 

Through a triangulation of our approach, THE Career Accreditation Programme’s suggestions and the Career Mark Award evaluation, it became clear that Avenor is offering students a bespoke programme that is both data-led and personalised. 

As someone with luddite tendencies, I also feel the programme pushed me out of my comfort zone and really made me consider the added value AI can have in the context of counselling and the university research process.

 

How can career guidance make a real difference in a student’s university or career choice?

It’s always helpful to have a guide when navigating new experiences, and that’s true for choosing a post-18 pathway, as well as going on holiday somewhere unfamiliar. 

Career guidance is there as a pillar of support: primarily, it strives to be impartial. While students face the pressure of expectation from different internal and external sources, a counsellor can offer well-informed feedback that aligns with the aspirations of students. All counsellors take the application journey with each student and family; supporting the process of identifying entry requirements and examinations, or guiding and reviewing motivational essays. 

However, school-based career guidance creates networks and bridges for students that can substantially improve the quality and efficiency of university applications by bringing the team around the student: keeping parents informed, building relationships with prospective universities, working with the school administration to ease the logistics of applying to university, and liaising SLT (as I explained in this article) to ensure policies and student needs are met. 

At Avenor, these factors are further enhanced by the fact we know our students well and offer individual career guidance meetings for students and families alongside the four year LOTC programme. 

PACT (Applied Projects in Transdisciplinary Contexts) for IMPACT is an innovative initiative marking a significant step towards modernising education in Romania. What makes this project unique is the collaborative partnership at its core—an international private school and a public school working together to develop innovative, scalable, and replicable teaching and learning models that can be implemented in any school across the country.

Our school has been selected under the “Grants for Pilot Education Units” programme, financed through European funds (PNRR – Romania’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan), to lead a project that will redefine how mathematics is taught and learned in primary education.

The funding agreement was officially signed in December 2024 at the Ministry of Education.

A Partnership Built on Collaboration

Avenor’s partner in this initiative is Gheorghe Vernescu School in Râmnicu Sărat, a public school with a highly diverse student population in terms of economic, cultural, and social backgrounds.

Together, we are implementing the PACT for IMPACT project, which was submitted in July 2024 and selected among 51 winning projects from a total of 129 applications.

Following two visits—one at Avenor and one at Gheorghe Vernescu—we are more convinced than ever that this collaboration will take us where we aspire to go. The dedication, resilience, and enthusiasm of the teachers in Râmnicu Sărat, guided by Geanina Lalu Popescu and Angelina Rivera Rocabado, have deeply impressed us.

Why is This Project Important?

At Avenor College, we always look to the future, fostering partnerships that have the power to transform education. PACT for IMPACT is a clear example of this commitment.

“This initiative is one of the first steps in expanding Avenor’s educational model, spreading our philosophy and best practices to a wider community. Designed as a scalable and replicable framework, the project has the potential to be implemented nationwide, contributing directly to the modernisation of the Romanian education system. We are thrilled to be pioneering this change in partnership with a state school ready to experiment with new approaches to teaching and learning, demonstrating their effectiveness and long-term benefits.” — Diana Segărceanu, Founder and Executive Director, Avenor College

Transforming the Way Mathematics is Taught

PACT for IMPACT focuses on developing mathematical literacy and critical and creative thinking skills, while also providing teachers with access to continuous professional development, mentoring, and co-teaching opportunities. The transdisciplinary approach connects mathematics with real-life situations, making learning more engaging and meaningful for students.

“Many students struggle with mathematics, finding it abstract, difficult, and disconnected from real life. Traditional teaching methods—explanations, examples, and exercises—often fail to address students’ diverse learning needs, leading to low motivation and rote learning. This project introduces a new approach focused on concept exploration, fostering a deeper understanding and enabling knowledge transfer across subjects. Additionally, it provides tools for self-reflection and teaching mentorship, encouraging collaborative learning and professional development within our educational communities. Our goal is to make learning both effective and engaging, tailored to the needs of both students and teachers.“— Daniela Vasile, Director of Learning at Avenor and Educational Coordinator of the Project

Through mentoring, teacher training, and the development of professional learning communities, this project aims to redefine the learning experience, ensuring it is both impactful and student-centred.

Key Components of the Project

A vital element of PACT for IMPACT is the “School After School” programme at Gheorghe Vernescu Secondary School in Râmnicu Sărat. This initiative provides 120 students from disadvantaged backgrounds with access to interactive workshops and themed clubs, offering them a structured and engaging learning environment under teacher supervision. The programme follows a transdisciplinary approach, ensuring that learning remains relevant and connected to real-world contexts.

“Our mission is to transform our school into a more engaging, relevant, and conscious learning environment. Schools evolve when teachers evolve. This project supports the professional growth of educators, equipping them with the skills needed to meet students’ needs and align with 21st-century educational standards. It also helps reduce school dropout rates by providing stimulating and inclusive learning experiences that benefit the entire school community.” — Geanina Lalu-Popescu, Headteacher, Gheorghe Vernescu School

Additionally, the project will develop, test, and introduce a teacher competency framework to help educators adapt their teaching methods to modern educational standards.

Innovation and Long-Term Impact

By embracing a practical and transdisciplinary approach, PACT for IMPACT has the potential to change students’ perceptions of mathematics, making it more accessible and applicable to their everyday lives. Teachers will be empowered to implement innovative teaching strategies, fostering a more inclusive and forward-thinking educational environment.

PACT (Applied Projects in Transdisciplinary Contexts) for IMPACT, project code e-PNRR 22, was selected under the “Grants for Pilot Education Units” call and is funded through Romania’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).

The project will be implemented between December 2024 and March 2026, with a total budget of 1,915,403 RON (including VAT and ineligible costs), allocated as follows:

• Avenor Secondary School: 808,884 RON (€161,776)
• Gheorghe Vernescu School: 1,106,519 RON (€221,318)

At the 6th edition of the “What’s Worth Learning” conference, Dr. David Willows and Suzette Parlevliet encouraged us to view learning from a fresh perspective by posing a thought-provoking question: What do we need to unlearn?

As experts in assessing felt experiences, David and Suzette introduced us to a new way of listening to the Avenor community through the Felt Experience Indicator®—a tool they developed and have successfully implemented in schools around the world. Using this research method, we not only gathered valuable feedback but also gained new insights into how to interpret and act on it.

As David said during the conference, “Listening to your community is a sign of institutional kindness.” By collecting feedback, our primary goal is to listen to our community’s voice, ensuring that we continuously foster a balanced educational environment where everyone feels valued. The process is truly complete when we transform feedback into concrete actions.

A Collaborative Process with Valuable Insights

Through our collaboration with [YELLOW CAR], we had the opportunity to conduct in-depth research using an innovative tool that provided us with a clearer understanding of how our community perceives the educational experience. We were thrilled by the overwhelming response to our invitation to participate in this process:

• 95% of students from grades 5–12 completed the surveys;
• 83% of Avenor families shared their feedback;
• 93% of teachers contributed their perspectives;
• Nearly 100 participants took part in focus groups.

In total, 1,132 completed surveys contributed to a clear picture of what works well and what areas can be improved.

Key Findings

The results were outstanding! Avenor received the highest rating among all schools where the Felt Experience Indicator® has been applied globally, reaffirming the high quality of the educational experience we provide.

One particularly important insight is that our 8th-grade students feel prepared and excited for the next stage of their education—the transition to high school. This is a strong confirmation that the educational environment we have built supports each student’s growth and development in a meaningful way.

Additionally, for each category of participants in the research process—parents, students, and teachers—we identified both the highest and lowest points in their experiences within our school community. The experience map we obtained allows us to better analyze areas of friction and determine where further attention and tailored approaches are needed.

Why Avenor?

We asked parents, students, and teachers: Why did you choose Avenor? Their responses highlighted key reasons:

• Parents value Avenor’s strong reputation, positive recommendations, and academic excellence. They appreciate the welcoming community, holistic approach to education, and alignment with their family values.
• Students feel Avenor provides enriching learning opportunities and a supportive, safe environment where they can thrive.
• Teachers chose Avenor for its alignment with their professional values, opportunities for growth, and a work environment that fosters a true sense of belonging.

Moving Forward

This research not only helped us better understand our community’s experiences but also inspired us to continue building an outstanding educational environment. The results confirm that we are on the right path and that we have the resources to keep growing together.

With a new team of coordinators, one of the largest and most comprehensive projects independently designed and entirely run by Avenor students promises to be an extraordinary event.

On the 8th of February, the stage of Apollo111 Theatre will host nine successful figures from entrepreneurship, medicine, sports, sociology, and business, who will share inspiring stories and unconventional experiences with the audience, illustrating how they turned imperfections and challenges into opportunities for growth. 

Tickets are available HERE.

We invite you to learn more about this project and the effort behind it from Karina and Mihai, 11th-grade students from Omega class, the main organisers of TEDxYouth@Avenor College.

 

What can you tell us about this year’s edition of TEDxYouth@Avenor College?

Karina: With this edition of TEDxYouth@AvenorCollege, we aim to create a moment of reflection and vulnerability, both for us as teenagers and for parents and other spectators. This event requires almost a year of preparation and teamwork, giving us the chance to combine academic development, specific to our age, with an entrepreneurial spirit. We wanted this year’s edition to highlight some essential traits of our generation: teamwork, resilience, determination, and entrepreneurial drive.

Mihai: Through the theme we have chosen for this edition—Not Business As Usual – Shaping Perspective on Perfection—our goal is to create an authentic environment where all participants can find themselves and later apply some of the ideas presented by our speakers in their daily lives. We have an extraordinary line-up, and we hope those who join us will discover the individual “recipes” our speakers have used to build successful careers and how they view the ideals imposed by society.

Karina: The nine speakers—Marius Moga, Gelu Duminică, Dr Elena Martin, Dragoș Petrescu, Rafaela Barac-Bologa, Dragoș Cîrneci, Gianina Van Groningen, Theodor Paleologu, and Octavian Bellu—together with our moderator, Teodora Tompea, will leave their mark on TEDxYouth@Avenor College 2025 by sharing inspiring stories and unconventional experiences.

These extraordinary individuals will show how they transformed imperfections and challenges into opportunities for growth, emphasising that authenticity, resilience, and consistency are far more important than the societal ideals imposed upon us.

What can you tell us about this year’s implementation team?

Karina: This year’s organising team is made up of 27 high school students, all part of eight departments that form a standard TEDx team: Event Management, Speaker Management, Sponsorships and Finance, PR & Marketing, Executive Production, Design, Web Design, and Legal.

Working together and communicating daily about this project over a long period has taught us how much we rely on each other. Now, as the event day approaches, I can confidently say that without a strong and determined team, such a project would not be possible.

We have managed to organise ourselves very well, with everyone knowing their role and carrying it out with enthusiasm. Most importantly, each of us wants this edition to be a success and a benchmark for future events.

 

What were the biggest challenges you faced while organising this event?

Mihai: Being a complex project that involves a lot of organisational effort and hours of work, there were moments when, at least for me, it was difficult to balance being a high school student, with homework and exams, and being an event coordinator.

However, I believe that when you take on responsibilities, especially for an event like TEDx, it is important to set your priorities carefully and adapt to manage all the tasks you are responsible for successfully.

This is the beauty of the project for us as organisers: to learn new things, develop skills, and discover how to overcome challenges effectively.

Karina: To add to what Mihai said, the biggest challenge for me was finding sponsors for the event.

Although none of the speakers is paid for their participation, we have numerous organisational costs that needed solutions. Despite the difficulty, we managed to secure the support we required.

With the hope of a full house and sold-out tickets, we are ready to enter the final stage of organising this event.

The 8th of February will be the result of months of work, so we invite everyone to reserve this date and join us. Together, we will enjoy a few hours of extraordinary stories that will undoubtedly resonate with our lives for a long time.

Tickets are available HERE.

“Middle School Adventures” marks a significant milestone for grade 5 students: their very first book, entirely written, illustrated, and edited by themselves. This impressive book is the outcome of a four-month-long Project-Based Learning (PBL) initiative, carried out with dedication and enthusiasm. During the PBL sessions, the students worked collaboratively towards a shared goal—helping future grade 5 pupils transition more smoothly and enjoyably into middle school.

In an engaging interview, Irina Zamfir, EPA Curriculum Leader and Teacher of Art & Design, shares further insights into this initiative, which was celebrated not only by the young creators but also by their parents and younger peers.

This project transformed Year 5 students into true authors. Over the course of several months, they embarked on a dynamic, creative journey to develop, design, and edit their own book. The experience culminated in a launch event, fully organised by the students themselves—a joyful occasion where their exceptional efforts were celebrated alongside parents and grade 4 pupils.

The project began with brainstorming sessions and group discussions, where the students selected themes that best reflected their school experiences. Through guided workshops, they gained a solid understanding of writing, editing, and book design. With the support of their teachers, they explored narrative structure, visual layout, and thematic consistency, all while managing the project independently and at their own pace.

Each class was divided into three specialised teams—writers, illustrators, and editors—to replicate the professional process of book creation. Every team played a critical role, from crafting and illustrating the story to editing and preparing the book for printing using graphic design tools. This unique project not only sparked creativity but also provided valuable lessons in teamwork and time management.

After completing the book, new teams took on roles in advertising, branding, and organising the launch event. The book was printed in a limited number of copies by a professional printing house.

The launch event served as the highlight of the project. Each grade 5 class presented their work to parents and grade 4 pupils during a celebratory event featuring speeches, videos, and a small exhibition.

Beyond the excitement of creating the book, students also developed portfolios documenting the entire process—from initial concepts to the finished product. This additional challenge encouraged them to appreciate the importance of organisation and planning.

For us, as teachers, the primary objective of this ambitious project was to provide students with the opportunity to independently organise and execute a large-scale creative endeavour. It was designed to showcase their creativity while developing essential skills such as collaboration, planning, and perseverance—valuable tools for any learning or real-life context.

 

At Avenor, the Parents’ Choir has become more than just a musical project – it’s a celebration of community, passion, and the joy of singing together.

What began as a modest initiative with just a few members has grown spectacularly, bringing together over 30 parents who, with their energy and enthusiasm, turn every rehearsal and event into a special moment.

Find out from Ioana Gafencu – teacher of music and the initiator of this project, how this success story came to life within our community.

 

Eight years ago, when I joined Avenor, I was thrilled to discover the Teachers’ Choir, a group of passionate colleagues who enjoy singing together. It’s not about singing professionally—that’s not the goal. It’s about the joy of singing together and bringing happiness to those around us. Beyond the enthusiasm of the choir members, the excitement of students when they see their teachers perform is immense. They are always delighted to participate in the artistic moments prepared by teachers for special occasions—like Romania’s National Day, Christmas, or Cultural Celebration Day—when our community comes together.

 

For me, this project was a perfect fit. I am, at my core, a pianist. I graduated from the Bucharest Conservatory, majoring in Musical Performance, Piano. Since entering George Enescu Music High School in 9th grade, I’ve been involved in choir singing, and my passion for it has only grown since. Singing in a choir brings me immense satisfaction. That’s why one of my dreams has always been to lead and sing alongside a choir. It’s my way of sharing the joy of music with those around me.

The children’s choir—Just Sing—was the first choir I directed at Avenor. Being part of such a connected community, the idea of forming a Parents’ Choir came naturally about two years ago.

I launched this project with great emotion, sending an invitation to all parents in our community. The only requirement was a passion for music. I wasn’t looking for professionals or specialists, just the joy of singing and spreading that joy through music.

To my delight, many parents responded positively to my invitation, and I quickly realized how much a project like this was needed and how beneficial it is for both the choir members and their audiences. Music is a form of therapy that shows its effects every Monday morning when the Parents’ Choir meets for rehearsal. Monday mornings have become a small celebration of singing, positive energy, and well-being.

What started with just over 10 participants has grown to over 30 members. Initially, we timidly prepared one or two songs, but now we’ve become a true force with a full schedule and a rich repertoire.

I must admit that the enthusiastic reception of our performances by the entire community—students, parents, and teachers—has greatly contributed to this evolution. As a conductor, it’s fantastic to witness the growth of this project so dear to me and the dynamic development of our choir during both rehearsals and performances.

We sing with joy at every community event, and, because I dream big, I aim to take Avenor choirs beyond our campus. After the extraordinary experience with Just Sing at the Musica Orbis Festival in Prague in summer 2024, where we participated in a choir competition, it’s now the Parents’ Choir’s turn to make its voice heard beyond the school.

Poveste de Crăciun  Charity Concert, an initiative born from an invitation by Father Francisc Doboș, a dear friend of our community, offers us the perfect opportunity.

In this concert, aimed at supporting a humanitarian cause organized by the Roman Catholic Church of Sacre-Coeur, the students from Just Sing and the parents from the Parents’ Choir, alongside a special guest—Nicholas Lupu, a professional opera singer, actor, and trainer with experience in various artistic fields—will perform on December 14 for an audience eager to experience moments of joy and emotion.

Beyond this major event, we will carol throughout December on various occasions—at the Winter Shows, the Christmas Fair, and during our alumni’s homecoming—spreading the joy of singing to everyone.

I would like to thank all the members of the Parents’ Choir for their energy, enthusiasm, and the magic this project brings to our community.

Now in its 8th edition, the Avenor Christmas Charity Fair is one of the longest-standing projects in the Avenor community, and despite the years passing, it continues to be cherished by everyone. Whether it’s the participating students, their parents, or the school’s friends who attend the fair each December, the magic surrounding this event only grows stronger year after year.

A key strength of the Avenor Christmas Charity Fair is the commitment of the student organizing team, who, despite exams, projects, and daily school life, find the time and energy to pour into this initiative. Beyond the carols, games, and treats, the event is also a symbol of generosity.

Sonia and Ana, 11Omega, are the coordinators for this year’s edition, and they are eager to share their thoughts and emotions about this heartwarming project in the interview below.

CARRYING THE TRADITION FORWARD 

For us, the Avenor Christmas Charity Fair is an event that will remain in our hearts forever. When Maria, now a graduate, suggested we take over the project last June and continue the tradition of the fair, we had no idea about the scale of the work ahead—countless hours behind the scenes, endless calls to sponsors, or the challenge of coordinating a team of over 40 high school students.

At the time, the fair only represented the delightful smells of popcorn and cotton candy wafting across campus, the excitement of games like Wheel of Fortune and Hop Hop Challenge, the thrill of the raffle, and the fantastic performances. And this is what makes the project truly unique: regardless of age, status, or interests, the Avenor Christmas Charity Fair brings the magic of Christmas to everyone.

The magical atmosphere, carols, delicious treats, fun with classmates, and a variety of creative activities are moments we aim to carry forward as we work to create another unforgettable experience for all participants this year, ensuring that the passion and tradition continue.

With the support of our community, last year we raised €10,000 for our charitable cause, Asociația Blondie, helping to fund the purchase of Romania’s first air ambulance, which transports critically ill children and infants to specialized clinics abroad.

THE TEAM BEHIND THE PROJECT 

This year, our team is made up of 42 ”elves” –  volunteers in the organizing team. Each member has a special role within the team, and together we collaborate to create an unforgettable event.  The seven departments—Logistics, Sponsorships, Finance, Marketing, HR, Arts & Crafts, and Photography—each have specific responsibilities that ensure the smooth running of the event. We all rely on each other, and we’ve learned that success comes from effective communication, collaboration, listening to one another, and respecting the opinions of those around us.

Naturally, there are challenges—moments of panic, delays, and days when hope seems lost. But the thought of the final result and the joy we experience during the fair keeps us motivated and focused, helping us find solutions along the way.

THE CHARITABLE CAUSE OF THE EVENT

For this edition, we have set ambitious goals.

Our aim is to raise 50,000 lei for the Tasuleasa Social Association, our chosen charity for this year. We are thrilled to contribute to the renovation of two houses in Târnăvioara, which will serve as hospitality hubs for travelers along Via Transilvanica, allowing locals to showcase their crafts and offering tourists a chance to immerse themselves in the region’s cultural heritage.

In addition, we hope to bring together 1,000 people—children, parents, and friends of the community—to the Avenor campus to enjoy the fair, while also encouraging generosity and spreading the Christmas spirit.

Achieving these objectives is undoubtedly challenging, especially as this is the first event of this scale and complexity we are organizing. It’s even more difficult because we must also continue our student responsibilities—tests, exams, projects, and more. But we are determined to move forward, dedicating ourselves with passion to this meaningful project that benefits both our community and us. The learning experience and the joy it brings are unmatched by anything else.

We are in the final stages of preparation. Now is the time to come together, to contribute in any way we can—through resources, time, or simply by attending the fair—to make this event a success.

The Avenor Christmas Charity Fair is not only about giving; it’s about bringing our community together through solidarity and generosity.

We warmly invite you to join us for the 8th edition of the Avenor Christmas Charity Fair, which will take place at the Avenor College campus on December 5th and 6th, from 14:00 to 16:00. Let’s celebrate the magic of Christmas together and create unforgettable memories.

Now in its second edition, the 24h Business Challenge is on its way to becoming a tradition among the independent projects led by Avenor students.

This competition challenges student teams to develop a business plan within 24 hours, based on a specific brief revealed on the day of the event. Each team’s mission is to present the most compelling plan to a jury of professionals from various industries.

The event was initiated by Ioana, a 12 Delta student with a passion for business. Together with Ana (11 Alfa) and Horia (11 Alfa), she successfully managed the event’s organization under the mentorship of Valentin Brabete, Teacher of Economics & Business Studies.

This initiative highlighted the students’ innovative and collaborative spirit, offering all participants valuable opportunities for growth and learning.

Learn more about this inspiring project directly from its organizers.

A UNITED AND INDEPENDENT TEAM

”This year, our project team brought together 20 students from grades 9 to 12, divided into four departments: event management, communication & curation, sponsorships, and marketing. Alongside Ana and Horia, I worked closely with all the volunteers, and it was exciting to see the expertise of returning team members who were part of last year’s event, as well as the enthusiasm of new teammates who joined us this year.

We maintained close communication with the department coordinators, and we believe our success was rooted in the spirit of collaboration that defines our school.

I’m especially thankful for the support of Mister Valentin, our  teacher of Economics & Business Studies , who guided us once again this year. He was always present, offering not just logistical and technical help, but also moral encouragement and valuable professional advice.

We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the parents in our community for their incredible support—whether as sponsors, speakers, or jury members for the competition.” shares Ioana, 12 Delta.

 

LESSONS LEARNED 

“As with any complex project, we encountered many challenges. The limited time available for organizing and the smaller team size created some pressure. At times, communication between departments was challenging, and the task flow experienced delays.

However, by maintaining clarity, prioritizing effectively, and collaborating closely, we managed to overcome all obstacles. The key lesson was that the success of a project depends on the people involved—dedicated, open-minded individuals who are willing to work together,” says Ioana, 12 Delta.

IMPACT OF THE EVENT

“Beyond the competition itself, the 24h Business Challenge provided participants with valuable learning opportunities. The workshops led by experts offered key insights into fields such as marketing, finance, and leadership. The feedback from the jury helped participants refine their ideas and improve their presentation skills. I wish I could have participated in those workshops too. 🙂

Most importantly, the event served as a true teamwork exercise. In just 24 hours, participants learned to collaborate efficiently, listen to each other, and develop their ideas collectively. The relationships built during the competition will continue to grow well after the event ends,” says Ana, 11 Alfa.

“The 24h Business Challenge wasn’t just a competition; it was an opportunity for personal and professional growth for both the participants and the organizers. We developed key business skills, learned to perform under pressure, and worked alongside experts who inspired us.

This event truly represents the spirit of the Avenor community: courage, collaboration, and a commitment to making a difference. We are proud of our achievements and excited for future editions,” says Horia, 11 Alfa.

 

 

EVENT FORMAT

Spanning 24 hours, the event brought together six teams, each consisting of three 8th and 9th-grade students. To prepare for the competition, participants took part in four workshops led by industry experts:

• Finance, with Ioana Bucin
• Marketing, with Mirela Pitu
• Leadership, with Laura Dragomir
• Sustainability and Social Impact, with Adrian Cocan

These sessions were designed to equip participants with practical tools and inspiration to develop their business ideas. Each student had the opportunity to attend two of the workshops.

This year’s edition centered on social entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on the partnership with Tășuleasa Social. Teams were challenged to transform two houses in Copșa Mică into sustainable social enterprises based on the principles of the circular economy.

The jury included:

• Cristina Tomescu – a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in national franchises
• Diana Segărceanu – entrepreneur and founder of Avenor College
• Paul Burzo – lead architect of the Tășuleasa Social project

The Run Green team, made up of three 9th-grade students, stood out with their innovative proposal for the Run Green Academy and Community Workshop. These spaces would host workshops for both locals and tourists, fostering engagement with the Tășuleasa community. Their concept showcased creativity, practicality, and a strong grasp of social entrepreneurship principles.