The beginning of a new year is always a special moment in school life. Classrooms reopen, lesson plans take shape and teachers look ahead to the months to come with a mix of energy and questions. What will this year bring? What new tools, ideas or challenges will enter our classrooms?

In some cultures, 2026 is known as the Year of the Horse. At European Schoolnet Academy, the year ahead feels like a moment to reflect on the growing role of AI in education; an important priority for European Ministries of Education and schools across Europe, and a key topic for teacher professional learning and its assessment.

As digital technologies continue to evolve, teachers are increasingly navigating questions around artificial intelligence, data, inclusion and well-being, while still holding on to what matters most: meaningful learning, curiosity and, above all, human connection, which lies at the heart of the teaching profession. Throughout 2026, the European Schoolnet Academy will continue to support educators on this journey, offering new courses, events and spaces for exchange designed with teachers and students in mind.

European Schoolnet Academy 2026 MOOCs: the magic ingredient

The Academy’s MOOCs are designed to support teachers across different contexts and education levels, combining practical classroom approaches with opportunities for peer exchange. In 2026, two brand-new MOOCs are part of the Academy’s offer.

Looking ahead, a second MOOC will follow in spring 2026: Teach informatics using authentic learning and gender inclusion. This upcoming course will focus on making informatics education more relevant and inclusive, with particular attention to authentic learning experiences and gender balance in the classroom.

Together, these courses reflect the European Schoolnet Academy’s commitment to accessible, practice-oriented professional development and to fostering a strong European learning community.

A key moment for reflection: the Academy Thematic Seminar

Alongside MOOCs, the European Schoolnet Academy’s annual thematic seminar offers a dedicated space to step back and reflect on broader questions that matter to the teacher professional learning community.

On 16 February 2026, the 6th Academy Thematic Seminar will take place online under the title Assessing Teacher Learning in the Time of AI. As AI tools influence how teachers plan, experiment and reflect on their practice, the seminar will explore how teacher learning can be assessed in ways that are authentic, ethical and meaningful.

Drawing on research perspectives and examples from practice, the event will conclude with a panel discussion offering concrete insights for those involved in teacher education and training.

Teachers’ Voices: a new call for 2026

Behind every course and seminar are teachers who test ideas in real classrooms, adapt them to their contexts and reflect on what works and what does not. Sharing these experiences is an essential part of professional learning.

In 2026, the Academy is launching a new call for Teachers’ Voices. We are looking to highlight educators who teach with innovation, curiosity and commitment, and who are willing to share their stories with the wider community.

Whether the focus is on AI, STE(A)M, inclusion or everyday classroom practice, these voices help ground innovation in lived experience.

Teachers who have participated in one of the European Schoolnet Academy MOOCs are warmly invited to get involved and share their voice.

Looking ahead

Throughout 2026, the European Schoolnet Academy will continue to connect its activities to the wider priorities of European Schoolnet, including artificial intelligence, digital competences, STE(A)M education, inclusion and well-being.

As the year unfolds, the Academy remains committed to supporting teachers not only with tools and training, but also with opportunities to reflect, exchange and be heard.

We look forward to learning together and to making 2026 a year of thoughtful, teacher-centred innovation