Books and screens and the reading brain - conference in Vilnius

E-Read, a scientific project financed by COST organised a major conference in Vilnius, Lithuania on 27-29 September 2017. A stakeholder round table was held as part of the conference, focusing on textbooks and other reading material used in and by schools, and EPA was invited to present the parents' view.

Playful learning rocks – Let’s enter PlayFutures together

21st century skills

This year’s LEGO Idea Conference highlighted the most important issues around quality education by revisiting two world famous oldies: Led Zeppelin’s Stairway to Heaven and Give P’s a Chance (sic!) by John Lennon. While the former relates to PISA results and equitable education systems, the latter refer to the 4 P’s of a quality learning experience (projects, passion, play and peers). The event was also the opportunity to launch the new PlayFutures network aiming at creating a world that values playful learning, and EPA is a partner in. The conference has come up with a ‘simple’ recipe for education reform: putting children in the centre of change and making them feel it is good for them.

A Clear Agenda for Migrant Education in Europe

The SIRIUS Network on the education of children and young people with a migrant background has spent the past three years debating policy priorities for migrant education and inclusion. The Agenda that has just been published and additional Recommendations summarise the policies that prove to be effective in promoting equal access to high quality education and training for all. It also suggests additional support mechanisms for learners with a migrant background where necessary.

Major EU-level NGO's representing different stakeholder groups endorsed the Agenda including EPA. We have added that "Parents' Associations all over Europe are aware of the challenges migrant families are facing when trying to adjust to a new country and a new education system. The European Parents' Association finds it very important that all children are supported in their education in a way that serves their best interest and at the same time parents are also given all necessary state support as stated in Article 18 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child."

Education priorities of the Greek EU Presidency

Education's 'crucial role' in the efforts to overcome the crisis Europe and its citizens are facing today is stressed by the current EU Presidency.

In its programme, the Greek EU Presidency, which was launched officially on 8 January, states that 'given the current economic environment and the consequent curtailment and tight control of public spending' it will 'focus considerable attention' on the contribution of education 'to economic growth, jobs and social cohesion'.

The document stresses that 'high quality, efficient and equitable education and training systems are crucial for the enhancement of the employability of Europe's workforce.'

Among other initiatives, Greece will hold a conference on vocational education and training, focusing on skills mismatch.

Read more about the Presidency's plans on education (pp 54-55):
http://gr2014.eu/sites/default/files/gr%20pres%20programme_teliko_7.1.2014_0.pdf

Source: Cedefop