Through the Erasmus+ KA220-SCH INDI Project in Slovenia, Georgette Bajada, Head of Department for Inclusion
Inclusion in education encompasses various definitions, but the Erasmus+ KA220-SCH INDI project has helped unify the goal of adapting schools and teaching methods to ensure every student feels they belong in the classroom and can learn meaningfully. Instead of trying to make students fit into a rigid system, the focus was on transforming the environment to meet their needs.
Educators from the five participating countries: Slovenia, Cyprus, Belgium, Sweden and Malta shared their experiences, learning from both successes and challenges during the final conference entitled ‘A World full of Colours’. Best practices were explored in detail, and areas needing improvement were identified and addressed. A unanimous agreement emerged: students’ voices are paramount, and listening to them is crucial.
A unique aspect of the project was the mascot, Indi, who travelled between schools in the participating countries. Indi taught children the importance of supporting one another, reinforcing the idea that educators must lead by example to foster a sense of belonging in their students.
Insights from other countries also enriched the project. For instance, Cyprus’ emphasis on prioritising learning their mother language highlighted the significance of language acquisition in education. Another powerful medium for inclusion, especially in early childhood, proved to be art. This medium allows children to express themselves freely, not just through words but through artistic expression, ensuring their voices are heard in various forms.
A significant observation from Slovenia was that non-disabled children often learn valuable lessons from their disabled peers, rather than the other way
around. This approach demonstrates the mutual benefits of inclusive education among all students.
Ultimately, the Erasmus+ INDI project has shown that by equipping and training educators, and by prioritising student voices and inclusive practices, we can create educational environments where every child feels valued and can thrive.
The visit to Slovenia was the last Learning, Teaching and Training activity for this project which was hosted by Vrtec-Kindergarten Galjevica in Ljubljana. The LTT offered job-shadowing opportunities for the participants in a number of kindergarten schools as well as two special schools within the same municipality.
The Secretariat for Catholic Education was represented by Dr Fiona Galea Pace, Head of Department for Early Years, Ms Georgette Bajada, Head of Department for Inclusion, and Ms Marisa Deguara, Autism Support Practitioner.
