The field of preschool education is continually evolving, making it essential for preschool teachers to stay updated on the latest educative trends and advancements. This training course offers a valuable opportunity for preschool educators to delve into the core principles, key characteristics, advantages of leading preschool methodologies focalising them with the matter of inclusion in those early stages of life.
The new edition of the course “The best for preschool teachers​” took place in Bologna from 20/10/2024 to 26/10/2024. The participants came from across Europe, with Sarah Jane, Constance, Marisa, Chanice and Rose Anne, participants coming from Malta’s St Ignatius College Siggiewi Primary School; furthermore María Isabel and Alaida María, from the Spanish Colexio Guillelme Brown, and Natalia from CEIP VALDESPARTERA SCHOOL. Finally, coming from Sweden’s Luleå Kommun förskola, Wilma, Susanna, Sandra, Therese, Helen, and Julia.
The course started with hands-on activities designed to help participants to warm up, share their goals and contributions to the course, and exchange ideas on effective practices in preschool education. Teachers also had the opportunity to introduce their schools to one another, providing an ideal way to gain a broader perspective on early childhood education across Europe.
Then the visit to the local preschool “Mario Rocca” in Bologna highlighted the school’s dedication to inclusive education. Known for its innovative approach, the “Mario Rocca” preschool prioritizes creating an environment where every child, regardless of background or ability, feels valued and included. The school has implemented various strategies and resources tailored to support diverse needs, fostering a sense of belonging among students and promoting equality in learning opportunities. This hands-on visit provided insights into how inclusive practices can be effectively integrated into early childhood education settings.
Moreover, in the course, participants engaged in exercises that emphasized collaboration, communication, and empathy—key elements of the Italian approach to inclusive education. Through role-playing, group problem-solving, and shared reflections, educators practiced strategies for creating supportive classroom dynamics that celebrate each child’s unique strengths. These activities not only illustrated effective inclusive practices but also underscored the importance of fostering a sense of community and belonging among students, aligning perfectly with the inclusive principles at the heart of the Italian model.
Moving forward in our discovery of the Italian preschool experience, we delved into the Método Montessori, a renowned philosophy and educational approach developed by Maria Montessori in the early 10th century. The session began with a visual presentation showcasing authentic Montessori environments and materials, providing a foundation for exploring the method in a hands-on and experiential way. This introduction allowed us to connect with the Montessori approach practically, emphasizing its focus on independence, self-directed learning, and the development of each child’s unique potential.
Next, we explored the world of Educação ao ar livre. Visiting the outdoor spaces, we watched children play in the mud, their eyes alive with curiosity. Guided by passionate teachers, this visit highlighted the importance of reconnecting children with nature, fostering respect for the environment and supporting authentic learning experiences.

We finally visited the Loris Malaguzzi Centre offered a deep dive into the Abordagem de Reggio Emilia, guided by a knowledgeable expert who led us through the Centre’s inspiring exhibitions. This immersive experience provided a comprehensive understanding of how the Reggio Emilia approach nurtures a child’s natural desire to learn, encouraging both educators and children to view learning as an active, shared journey.

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