SchoolinHUB article
Experts, researchers and activists point to a number of barriers faced by migrant children, their families and teachers. These include inadequate knowledge of the local language, lack of sufficient social and emotional support, insufficient training for teachers to work in multicultural classrooms and with new, innovative resources, poor home-school collaboration, and limited funding to support these initiatives. Migrant children often face challenges such as language barriers, cultural differences and limited support in schools, which can affect their learning and social integration.
In response to these needs, the international project “SCHOOLinHUB” was created, which aims to promote integration and host country language learning for young children aged 4-7 from migrant backgrounds (refugees, migrants or asylum seekers). The project is implemented under the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF) program, funded by the European Commission.
The “SCHOOLinHUB” project is an initiative that has as one of its main objectives the transformation of selected schools into dynamic integration centers so that they can provide a holistic approach to empowering children aged 4-7, their parents and teachers in multicultural environments in school communities. In this way, schools will become centers where migrant children and their families can bridge language and cultural gaps. A professional development course will be designed for teachers - a training program designed to equip teachers with methodologies such as CLIL and social storytelling in multicultural classrooms. An online tool will also be developed, such as an E-tool for assessing schools' readiness for inclusion, a digital e-Mapping tool documenting 180 good practices in inclusion and language learning, a Comprehensive Guide for Schools on Implementing Inclusive and Multicultural Practices, and audiovisual infographics of good practices summarizing national findings and promoting understanding of inclusion strategies. The project envisions strengthening migrant children and parents in language, personal, emotional and social competencies that will ensure integration into the school environment while promoting active participation in the community.
From early childhood education and care to adult education, language learning is the foundation for successful participation in society and the most powerful tool for building inclusive societies. The “SCHOOLinHUB” project aims to bridge linguistic and cultural gaps, creating cohesive, resilient and inclusive communities through cutting-edge methodologies such as CLIL (content and language integrated learning), social stories and gamification. A Language Improvement Course using CLIL Methodology will be established to enable migrant parents to achieve B2 language proficiency. The project also emphasizes active involvement of parents, professional development of teachers and mobilization of local communities to ensure long-term social cohesion. By working closely with schools, local organizations and communities, the project promotes inclusion. NGOs, educators and stakeholders will receive Capacity Building Workshop Modules for stakeholders.
It is expected that upgrading teachers' teaching methodologies, developing new resources, tools and methodologies, and creating strong synergies among stakeholders will mobilize local support for a more welcoming, supportive and sustainable community based on acceptance, respect and empathy. The “SCHOOLinHUB” project includes the development of innovative digital tools, such as a web portal, a mobile app, and an interactive 2D game.
The project is headed by the SAN University, acting as coordinator of the entire project. SAN University is a Polish university with 30 years of experience in education, known for its innovative approach to education and social inclusion activities. In addition to the SAN University, which is coordinating the project, organizations from different countries are participating in the project. These include: Public Consulting Group (Poland), The Directorate of Primary Education of Western (Greece), KMOP Social Action and Innovation Centre (Greece), Greek Forum of Refugees (Greece), RIC Novo mesto (Slovenia), Berlin Cosmopolitan School (Germany), A&A Emphasys Interactive Solutions Ltd (Cyprus), CitizensACT (Cyprus), Pelican Language School (Czech Republic), CSC Credito Senza Confini società cooperativa sociale (Italy), Udruga roditelja “Korak po korak” (Croatia), Nordic Diaspora Forum (Sveden).
For more information on the project, visit the website: https://schoolinhubproject.eu
