Representatives from the education sector took part on 12 March in an Expert Roundtable on Education. The professional meeting began with a breakfast for attendees. The day brought together school leaders and specialists to discuss the challenges and trends shaping private education in Alicante.
The session was moderated by Concha Pastor, director of Todo Alicante. She guided the discussion throughout the morning and encouraged the exchange of ideas and experiences.
Several key topics were addressed, starting with private education in Alicante and the changing expectations of families.
Experts discussed the evolving profile of parents. Increasingly, they are looking for international and bilingual educational programmes for their children.
They also highlighted the importance of schools’ value proposition compared with fees. Competition with state-subsidised schools was also discussed.
Otro bloque central del encuentro fue el talento docente. Los participantes debatieron estrategias para atraer y retener profesorado diferencial.
Another central theme was teaching talent. Participants explored strategies to attract and retain outstanding teachers.
They also discussed balancing salaries with the strength of the educational project. Continuous professional development was considered essential. The role of international teaching staff within schools was addressed. Experts agreed on their value in global educational projects.
Technology and artificial intelligence in the classroom were also discussed. Experts considered the practical use of AI in education. They analysed integrating tools such as ChatGPT into learning. Competency-based assessment was another key topic.
The use of data to personalise learning was discussed. Experts highlighted its significant educational potential.
Students’ emotional health and wellbeing were also a major focus. Issues such as anxiety among young people were addressed. Academic pressure and social media influence were analysed. Experts stressed the importance of collaboration between schools and families.
Prevention protocols and affective-sexual education programmes were also considered highly relevant.
The roundtable examined international education and hybrid learning models. Programmes such as the International Baccalaureate and dual programmes were discussed. International mobility of students was also addressed. Experts highlighted Alicante’s potential as an international education hub.
Other topics included equality, cultural diversity, and values education. Infrastructure and sustainability in schools were also discussed.
Participants reflected on creating healthy learning environments and digitalising school facilities.
Developing school campuses was highlighted as an innovation tool and a way to attract families.
Finally, the demographic future of Alicante province was analysed. Experts noted the impact of declining birth rates.
Strategies for schools to adapt were discussed. These included expanding educational stages and enhancing student recruitment.
The event concluded with a final exchange of ideas among participants. Attendees emphasised the importance of these dialogue forums.
