The Best for preschool teachers

 The world of childhood and preschool education is in constant development, and for preschool teachers, it is crucial to keep up with new trends and stay on top of what’s current. This training course for preschool teachers will be a starting point for exploring the main principles, features, and benefits of the best preschool approaches.

The new edition of the course “The best for preschool teachers​” took place in Bologna from 09/02/2025 15/02/2025. The participants came from all across Europe, with Francesca Agius, Mandy Farrugia, Charlene Bugeja, Jessica Farrugia, Josette Grech from St Ignatius College Siggiewi Primary School in Malta, Annie Skiadopoulou, Spyridoula Iseri from 1st Kindergarten of Corfu in Greece, Niamh Clancy, Bernadette Devine, Margaret Hunt , Beatrice Gaynor from Nurtures Best in Ireland.

The course began by exploring the Italian system of preschool education, providing teachers with a deeper understanding of its structure and principles. During this time, participants also had the opportunity to make school presentations, sharing insights from their own institutions, which helped create a broader perspective on the diverse educational practices in Europe.

A significant focus of the course was inclusive education, particularly the Italian inclusive model. Teachers were introduced to the strategies used within Italy to create inclusive environments that support all children, regardless of their backgrounds or abilities, ensuring equal opportunities for all learners.

As part of the course, the group visited a Montessori school, where they had the opportunity to observe the principles in practice. This visit allowed them to see how the focus on child-centered learning is applied, with children encouraged to explore at their own pace. The school’s unique educational materials and carefully prepared environment provided further insight into how this approach fosters independence, creativity, and a love for learning. By observing these principles in action, participants gained valuable perspectives that could inspire and inform their own teaching practices

The next stop was Naturalmente Bambini, an outdoor school where participants saw children learning through play in natural environments. This experience highlighted the significance of Outdoor Education and the benefits of reconnecting children with the natural world. The teachers shared their experiences, emphasizing how outdoor learning nurtures creativity, physical health, and environmental awareness.

The course concluded with a visit to the Reggio Emilia approach, which is renowned for its innovative educational practices. At the International Center of Malaguzzi, teachers had the opportunity to explore exhibits focusing on the history, materials, and projects that are central to the Reggio Emilia philosophy. This visit offered a unique chance to dive deeper into this influential educational model, celebrated worldwide for its emphasis on creativity, collaboration, and the respect for children’s thoughts and ideas.

As the week came to an end, the teachers returned home, carrying a luggage full of memories and experiences, ready to integrate what they had learned into their own educational practices.
​
Discover more about this course here.