Canary Islands Students Return to School With New Educational Reforms
Over 100,000 preschool and primary students returned to classrooms in the Canary Islands this Wednesday as schools implement new regional reforms focused on smaller class sizes, free textbooks, and reduced screen time.
The new school year began in the Canary Islands this Wednesday, as 104,597 preschool and primary students returned to their classrooms. According to El Día, this marks the official end of summer for thousands of families across the archipelago. Beyond the return to routine, this year brings significant changes to the regional education system, including smaller class sizes, healthier school meals, free textbooks, and new restrictions on the use of digital screens in the classroom.
The return to school is being staggered: 58,961 secondary students (ESO) head back on Thursday, followed by 24,034 high school and vocational students on Friday.
Schools are placing a new emphasis on creative ways to welcome students back. For example, CEIP Los Verodes in Santa Cruz de Tenerife launched a "story factory" project. Through a theatrical performance by the teachers, the school introduced a model where students act as writers and illustrators, moving away from a strict reliance on traditional textbooks. This reflects a broader shift in education, focusing on helping students create their own content and fostering independence rather than relying solely on standardized instruction.
These welcome activities have helped ease the nerves of students returning from their break, highlighting the importance of enthusiasm in the classroom. As the school year progresses, the focus will remain on flexibility and personalized learning, as schools adapt to new regional regulations and the growing demand for a more creative, participatory educational experience.