16 September 2024
With the start of the 2024/25 school year, the Luxembourg Red Cross is placing a strong emphasis on non-formal education in its 16 Maisons Relais, which cater for circa 3,860 children aged between 3 and 12. Around 500 education professionals are committed every day to providing children with an environment in which they can freely develop their interests.
The concept of non-formal education
Non-formal education, as practised in the Red Cross Maisons Relais, places the competent child at the centre of its concerns. Katia Mongelli, specialist adviser in the non-formal education department, explains: ‘We see the child as a competent individual who is actively building his or her educational path. Our mission is to accompany them on this journey’.
Patricia Tompers, Head of Education, adds: ‘Our structures follow the concept of open workshops. In the Maisons Relais, there are different functional areas covering themes such as nature, rest, movement, media and construction. The children are free to pursue their interests and use the spaces according to their needs. The educators play a central role in encouraging children to develop their own skills and adapt the environment accordingly’.
Benefits for children
Non-formal education in our Maisons Relais offers many advantages for children. They can organise their day as they wish and have a say in the layout of spaces and activities. ‘In our Maisons Relais, we attach great importance to children’s self-determination, participation and inclusion,’ emphasises Katia Mongelli. Children are actively involved in decision-making and are represented e. g. in children’s assemblies and/or children’s committees.
‘With us, the child is at the centre. Every child is welcome and has the same value. We adapt to the children in order to encourage and support them in the best possible way’ , says Katia Mongelli.
The Luxembourg Red Cross is looking forward to continuing to promote the development and self-determination of children through non-formal education in the Maisons Relais during the new school year.
We wish all the children and our specialised staff a great start to the new school year! 😊
More information about our Maisons Relais: Maisons Relais and Nurseries – Luxembourg Red Cross, Mënschen hëllefen (croix-rouge.lu)
