This proposal outlines the establishment of a Joint Specialization Program in Primary Education, with a specific focus on English-Medium Instruction (EMI), to be developed collaboratively by faculties of education belonging to the ENLIGHT university alliance. The program is intended for students enrolled in the final year of the Primary Education degree and aims to enhance their pedagogical competencies by equipping them with the knowledge and skills required to teach curricular subjects in English in multilingual or international school contexts.
The specialization will be structured across two academic semesters, each hosted by a different partner university within the ENLIGHT network (including the Faculty of Education of Bilbao – University of the Basque Country):
• During the first semester, hosted by University A, students will engage in coursework focusing on English-medium teaching methodologies, content and language integrated learning (CLIL), classroom communication strategies, and subject-specific pedagogy delivered in English.
• In the second semester, hosted by University B, the curriculum will emphasize inclusive practices in diverse classrooms, the use of digital tools for EMI, and the development of professional teaching competencies in intercultural and multilingual educational environments.
The joint specialization will promote student mobility, foster cross-institutional collaboration, and support the internationalization of teacher education programs. Upon successful completion, students will be awarded a joint certificate of specialization, formally recognizing their advanced preparation to teach in English within primary education settings.
This initiative not only reinforces the shared educational values of the ENLIGHT alliance but also addresses the growing demand for primary school teachers with the ability to deliver high-quality instruction in English across diverse European and global contexts.
Contact person:
Mari Mar Boillos –
Vice-Dean of International Relations of the Faculty of Education Bilbao (EHU)