At Savremena Primary School, we believe that important life skills are developed through experience, meaningful encounters, curiosity and the opportunity for pupils to try something new. That is why, as part of our Life Skills programme, we organised a special workshop that brought our pupils plenty of smiles, inspiration and creative work – a crocheting workshop with Viktor, known to the public as Viktor Heklač.

Viktor introduced the pupils to the skill of crocheting in a warm, simple and engaging way, showing them that creativity has no limits and that every new attempt is an important step in the learning process. His story is especially inspiring because it shows that a hobby can grow into something much greater – a message about perseverance, confidence, authenticity and the courage to be yourself.

During the workshop, the pupils had the opportunity to see up close how a crocheted piece is created, how to hold the hook, how to make the first loop and how patience and repetition lead to the first visible results. Although for many pupils this was their first encounter with crocheting, their curiosity and willingness to try were stronger than any initial uncertainty.

The workshop once again showed that the Life Skills programme is not only about learning practical skills, but also about creating a space where pupils develop persistence, focus, creative thinking and confidence in their own abilities.

At first glance, crocheting may seem like a simple activity, but the pupils quickly discovered that it requires attention, patience, precision and the willingness to accept mistakes as part of the process. Viktor showed them that no skill is mastered immediately, but through repetition, practice and encouragement to continue even when the first result is not perfect.

That was one of the most important messages of the workshop. The pupils learned not to give up easily, to follow instructions carefully, observe movements, ask questions and support one another. The atmosphere was filled with curiosity, laughter and concentration, and every successfully made movement brought new excitement.

Through his own example, Viktor showed the pupils that interests can be different, unique and worthy of respect. His confidence, openness and willingness to share his knowledge helped the pupils feel free to try, make mistakes, repeat and improve. In that process, they were not only learning how to crochet – they were learning how a skill is developed, how patience is built and how creativity is nurtured.

Life Skills workshops are designed to prepare pupils for life through activities that connect knowledge, practice and personal development. Crocheting with Viktor was an excellent example of this type of learning: calm, attentive, practical and, at the same time, deeply inspiring.

The special value of this workshop was that pupils had the chance to meet a peer whose creativity has become widely recognised and who has shown, through his hobby, how important it is to nurture what we love. Viktor’s visit was much more than a crocheting lesson – it was a conversation about the courage to follow one’s own interests, even when they are unusual or unexpected.

Through spending time with Viktor, the pupils could see that success does not come only from big plans, but also from small everyday steps. One loop, then another, then a third – just like in learning, friendship, sport, art or any other field, progress is built gradually.

The workshop encouraged pupils to think about their own talents, hobbies and the things that make them happy. Some wanted to continue practising crocheting, some asked questions about Viktor’s experience, and everyone left the classroom with an important message: being different, curious and creative is a strength.

We thank Viktor for visiting Savremena Primary School and for sharing his knowledge, energy and inspiring story with our pupils. This Life Skills workshop will be remembered as a meeting that brought together creativity, patience, practical learning and the joy of creating.