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		Educational Exchanges   DEPARTMENT 2, EDUCATIONAL EXCHANGES Mitropoleos 15 101 85, ATHENS Telephone: 010 3210385 Fax: 010 3221521 e-mail: des-b@ypepth.gr Section 2 of the International Educational Relations Department is responsible for reciprocal Educational Agreements and the running of Educational Programmes between Greece and other countries in the educational field. The Department organises exchanges for educators, archivists, and library scientists. The Department also participates in international Language Exhibitions, and is involved with Greek language teaching abroad, the publishing of books and other material concerning the Greek language, twinning schools, and authorising educational trips. Twinning schools - educational trips abroad for schoolchildren Recent years have seen the successful introduction of educational exchanges and the twinning of primary and secondary schools in Greece with schools abroad. The underlying purpose of both these initiatives is to allow different peoples to learn about other cultures, to exchange opinions, to co-operate in joint educational programmes and events, and hone their foreign language skills, while simultaneously promoting the language, history, and culture of Greece. The educational visits take place during the Christmas, Easter, or summer holidays whenever possible, so as not to interfere with the smooth running of the school. Furthermore, the expenses incurred (tickets, board, and lodging) are not covered by the Ministry of Education. Any student who wants to can participate in the student exchange. One accompanying full-time or supply teacher is appointed per ten participating students. Participating teachers and students must have a good command of at least one foreign language. The required documentation is submitted to the local Office of the Primary or Secondary Education Department, which forwards it to Section 2 of the International Educational Relations Department at the Ministry of Education one month prior to departure. The following documents are required: 1. A copy of the section of the teachers' meeting minutes in which the decision to make the trip is recorded, along with the exact dates of the trip and a full list of the children and accompanying teachers who will be going on the trip. 2. Signed confirmation from the headmaster/mistress of the school that he/she has received signed letters from the children's parents or guardians, stating they do not object to their child/ward participating. 3. An invitation from the school abroad; 4. The schedule for the trip. The Ministry of Education is convinced that the above activities are exceptionally beneficial to participants, and therefore welcomes suggestions as to how the institution could be improved.