Special needs and inclusive education, the Italian experience of overcoming segregation

This course aimed to provide educators with valuable insights into inclusive education by emphasizingpractical strategies, co-teaching models, and the effective integration of students with special needs. Participants engaged in school visits and expert discussions, gaining hands-on experience that can be directly applied to foster inclusivity and participation in their own classrooms.
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The new edition of the course “Special needs and inclusive education, the Italian experience of overcoming segregation” took place in Palermo from 11/05/2025 to 17/05/2025.The participants came from all across Europe, Fanny from LP Saint-Exupéry in France, Agnese from Rigas Anglu gimnazija in Latvia, Gorgan, Cristina, Florina, Cighi and Diana from Gradinita cu Program Prelungit Casuta cu Povesti Zalau in Romania, Floris and Remy from OPO Hof van Twente in the Netherlands, Isabel and Lina from Agrupamento de Escolas Alexandre Herculano in Portugal, Inmaculada, Amparo and Marta from CEIP Sant Miquel in Spain, Pasi and Marco from OSAO Kontinkangas Unit in Finland and Dina from RTU Liepaja Academy in Latvia. 

To start with the course, participants presented their school and we introduced the concept of inclusion in education. In inclusive education, creating an environment where all students, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds, feel valued and supported is essential. Educators should implement strategies that acknowledge student differences, providing personalized approaches for success. Collaboration and openness to new methods are key to fostering an inclusive environment, ensuring equal opportunities for all students.
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On the following day, participants explored the Italian model of inclusive education by visiting the school “Liceo Classico G. Meli”, a great example of an inclusive school in the local area. In this visit, participants learned about how support teachers work to meet the diverse needs of students.
On the third day, participants had the chance to visit another school in Ficarazzi, “Livatino”, where they observed the role of support teachers, showing how important teamwork is for creating an inclusive learning environment.

Another great topic of the week was membership and the need to belong. In this session, participants discussed how important it is for students, especially those with special needs, to feel like they are part of the community. Feeling that they belong helps students stay motivated and engaged in their learning.

The course ended with a session on inclusive teaching methods and the use of ICT tools for inclusion. Participants learned about different strategies and technology that can help make learning more accessible and interesting for all students. These tools allow educators to create lessons that meet the needs of each student, encouraging greater participation and learning.
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Throughout the course, participants gained both practical and theorical aspects and methods that will help them make their classrooms more inclusive. The discussions were engaging, and the participants’ passion for making education better for everyone made the course a truly inspiring experience. This journey was a great reminder of how education can break down barriers and help every student feel included.

Discover more about this course here