FIM Team Building Retreat: Connecting, Learning, and Growing in the Orlické Mountains
From September 15th to 17th, a group of 47 staff members from FIM embarked on an inspiring three-day team-building retreat in the picturesque Orlické Mountains. It was a wonderful opportunity for faculty management, teachers, staff, and PhD students to connect outside the usual office environment.
Day 1: History, Hiking, and Hospitality
The adventure kicked off on the morning of September 15th at the Hanička fortress. Team members explored the fascinating underground tunnels, learned about the site's history, and experienced immersive projections of historical cannon firings.
Following the underground tour, the group set off on a refreshing three-hour hike through the scenic landscape, concluding at the breathtaking Neratov Church. Here, everyone gathered for a relaxed barbecue featuring traditional sausages, fresh bread, and refreshments. The day wrapped up at Hotel Studánka, where the team unwound with free access to the hotel pool.
Day 2: Academic Inspiration and Evening Music
The second day shifted focus to professional development. The team participated in an engaging pedagogical workshop led by two guest lecturers from Charles University, focusing on how to motivate and inspire students.
The interactive session combined lectures with individual and group exercises, covering practical topics such as:
- Effective lesson planning
- Constructive methods for correcting student mistakes
- Techniques for capturing and holding student attention
In the evening, the group explored a theme for the next day, centered around the poetic theme, "What is happiness? Just a golden fly." The night concluded on a high note with a lively jam session.
Day 3: Team Spirit and Return
On the final day, September 17th, the energy reached its peak. Ten teams, each consisting of 5 to 6 members, competed across 10 diverse activities, including archery, shooting, volleyball, and darts.
The retreat concluded with a celebratory lunch at Hotel Studánka before the team boarded the bus for a comfortable journey back to Hradec Králové.
Overall, it was a deeply enriching experience that strengthened bonds across the entire faculty. We are already looking forward to next year's adventure!