On 21-22 October, EASPD’s Member Forum on Education hosted its Lighthouse Network activity in Turin, bringing together 21 participants from across Europe to explore inclusive education within the Italian school system. Led by CBM Italia, the workshop gathered practitioners, educators, and representatives from key organisations to deepen understanding of Italy’s policies, practices and on-the-ground realities.

Participants were first introduced to the legal and conceptual framework underpinning inclusive education in Italy. This was followed by testimonies from teachers and school staff who shared their experiences implementing inclusive practices in classrooms. The workshop also showcased a variety of resources designed to help students and educators understand diversity and foster more welcoming learning environments.

Discussions highlighted both the strengths and systemic challenges of the Italian approach:

• Italy’s legislation provides robust support for inclusive education. Yet participants noted a gap between policy and practice, particularly the need for attitude shifts and wider adoption of inclusive principles in teacher training.
• While overall participation of students with disabilities has increased, children with significant support needs or those frequently hospitalised remain at risk of exclusion.
• Only 41% of school buildings meet accessibility standards. Although schools are legally required to make adjustments and may not refuse a student, insufficient funding continues to hinder full accessibility.
• Approximately 73% of support teachers have training in inclusive education. They are assigned to classes—not individual students—to promote a collaborative staff model. Despite this, the system continues to evolve as it seeks to eliminate distinctions between “regular” and “special” teachers.
• Tensions can arise between parents of children with disabilities and teachers, with some parents reporting that their child’s strengths are overlooked in favour of their limitations.

EASPD wishes to thank CBM Italia for supporting the activity and all participants who contributed to the workshop.