This year (2023), the European School System and the European School Luxembourg I (in Kirchberg) are celebrating their 70th anniversary and, in this context, held a conference on Thursday 19 October 2023 which was attended by over 400 delegates, including teachers, students and alumni.
The conference was entitled "SE+ED 27: Education to the Power of 27" and featured a series of keynote speakers, panel sessions and a fair that showed the strength of the individual schools in the European Schools network which comprises a total of 36 European schools with around 4,300+ staff, 42,000 students and 71,000+ alumni. It showcased a selection of the European Schools' best educational practices, ideas and talents in a one-day event with a variety of speakers from the world of education and the European Schools: the European Commission, OECD, OSG, teachers, students, parents, directors and alumni.
The conference sessions focussed on a wide range of topics, including the history of the European School System to the challenges of modern education. One of the key themes of the conference was the role of the European School System in shaping the future of education. Keynote speakers highlighted the system's success in fostering multilingualism and multiculturalism. The European School System's unique curriculum, which includes the study of several languages and cultures, helps to prepare students for life in an increasingly globalised world. Another topic that garnered significant attention was the use of technology in education: while technology offers numerous opportunities to enhance learning, it also presents challenges such as cybersecurity and data privacy concerns.
The event also included video interventions, panel discussions and musical performances, concluding with a cocktail reception.
The following day, Friday 20 October 2023, a school fete is being organised together with APEEEL1, the Parents' Association of the European School Luxembourg I, with a 70th birthday party for Lux1-staff in the evening.
Background
The European School system has come a long way since its founding in 1953, but the focus on multilingualism and European cooperation remains strong. With its unique approach to education and emphasis on diversity, the system is seen to continue to prepare students for success in an increasingly globalised world.
The European School system has a significant impact on European education. It has contributed to the development of a European identity, where people from different countries can come together and work towards a common goal. This sense of unity and cooperation is deemed vital in today's world, where globalisation has brought people closer than ever before.
