Two months ago, upon the invitation of the Slovenian Ministry of Education, I stepped into the role of Future Classroom Lab (FCL) Ambassador for Slovenia—a great honour, an important responsibility and a valuable opportunity for our project, our region and Slovenia as a whole.

About the Project: Preplet – Zasavje Learning Hub 

Preplet is a large-scale regional initiative that connects all 16 educational institutions in Zasavje—primary schools, secondary schools and a kindergarten—into a unified, collaborative learning network. 

The aims of the Preplet – Zasavje Learning Hub are broad and ambitious, reflecting the region’s commitment to educational advancement. Firstly, the project seeks to enhance educational quality. Alongside this, there is a strong focus on strengthening the competencies of both teachers and students, equipping them with the skills and knowledge required to thrive in a rapidly changing world. The initiative also places great importance on encouraging pedagogical innovation, fostering an environment where educators feel empowered to explore new teaching methods and approaches. Finally, by expanding learning opportunities across the region, the Preplet project aims to make education more accessible and inclusive, enabling a wider range of individuals to participate in meaningful learning experiences. 

As part of the project, an old building is being transformed into a contemporary regional learning hub. This new centre will be fitted with advanced ICT technologies, as well as cutting-edge tools for virtual, augmented and extended reality (VR/AR/XR). In addition, robotics and 3D technologies will be integrated, enabling innovative approaches to teaching and learning. The hub will also feature flexible learning zones designed for co-creation, experimentation and prototyping, providing spaces where educators and students can collaborate, explore new ideas and develop creative solutions together.  

This hub will support diverse activities, including professional development, interdisciplinary collaboration, learning scenario design, regional events, student workshops and community‑based innovation. 

Inspired by the Future Classroom Lab 

From the earliest design stages, our team looked to the Future Classroom Lab for inspiration, not only in terms of equipment, but especially in the mindset it promotes. 

At the heart of our approach lies a commitment to active and student-centred learning, where learners are both engaged and empowered. We place a strong emphasis on collaboration, recognising the value of working together to achieve shared goals and to enrich the educational experience. The design of our learning spaces reflects our belief in flexibility and adaptability, allowing environments to be tailored to different activities and needs. Technology is integrated meaningfully and purposefully, enhancing teaching and learning rather than simply adding novelty. Underpinning all of this is a culture that encourages experimentation and pedagogical courage, inspiring educators and students alike to try new methods, take risks, and innovate for the future. 

Stepping into the role of FCL Ambassador enables me to deepen this connection even further: strengthening cooperation, exchanging ideas and bringing FCL principles closer to teachers and schools across the Zasavje region. 

Building a Regional Community of Innovation 

Through Preplet, we are gradually shaping a dynamic and connected regional learning community. Schools share good practices, co‑design learning scenarios, participate in joint professional development and collectively explore new approaches to teaching and learning. 

The upcoming Zasavje Learning Hub will serve both as a physical centre and as the symbolic heart of this transformation, a place where ideas, people and possibilities meet. 

Our shared vision is clear: to create an environment where teachers feel supported, students feel empowered, and innovation becomes part of everyday school life. 

Author: Nataša Grošelj