As part of a joint project on inclusive early childhood education, Gordon Academic College of Education was honored to host a delegation from Ilia State University (Georgia) for a week-long professional visit. This marks the second meeting of the project’s working group, which brings together three partner institutions: Ilia State University, the University of Montenegro, and Gordon College.
The project, generously funded by the Israeli Ministry of Regional Cooperation, is led by Prof. Shai Rudin, Head of the Early Childhood Education Department at Gordon College. Its goal is to promote inclusive, high-quality early childhood education through international collaboration, knowledge sharing, and professional development.
Learning from Israel’s Early Childhood System
Throughout the week, the delegation explored Israel’s early childhood education ecosystem, engaging in hands-on workshops, professional discussions, and field visits to exemplary educational settings.
The study tour began with a visit to Hod Kindergarten in the artists’ village of Ein Hod, where guests were warmly welcomed by Supervisor Ms. Sigal Kelet, Kindergarten Teacher Ms. Shirit, and the staff. Hod Kindergarten is a multi-age setting (ages 3–6) guided by the “Future Kindergarten” vision, emphasizing child-led learning, connection to nature, and strong community involvement.
The group observed the children’s morning routine, including an outdoor exploration and activities at their regular “forest garden” site, where they engaged in nature-based learning, creative workshops, and pita baking over a traditional taboon oven.
Later, the delegation visited the community garden of the village and met with local educators and parents, gaining insights into the role of community participation in early childhood development.
Inclusion and Innovation in Practice
In the afternoon, the delegation was hosted by Ganigar School in Haifa, a unique institution serving students with special educational needs (ages 6–21). The visit was coordinated by Dr. Irit Benin, a Gordon College lecturer and teacher at the school.
The guests were deeply impressed by the school’s aesthetic and pedagogical environment, created through years of dedicated collaboration between teachers and students.
The visit included classroom observations, an emotional performance by the school choir and band, interactive digital learning in Dynamic Class, language and memory activities combining movement, a rich art workshop, and a visit to the “life skills apartment,” where older students practice essential daily living skills such as cooking, shopping, and laundry.
Cultural Connections
On the final day, the delegation enjoyed a cultural tour in Tiberias, visiting historical sites and deepening their understanding of Israel’s cultural and educational landscape.
Building Bridges in Early Childhood Education
This visit strengthened the partnership between Gordon College, Ilia State University, and the University of Montenegro, and reaffirmed the shared commitment to advancing inclusive, innovative, and community-based early childhood education.
