Guide To Private And State Education In Serbia 2015 / 2016 by CorD Magazine

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PRIVATE AND STATE EDUCATION IN SERBIA 2015/16

INTERVIEW

Changing the System for the Better The most important changes in our education system are yet to come. Their purpose is to build a strong foundation for the validation of teachers and the quality of our textbooks and educational process, in addition to establishing rating criteria for acquired knowledge and educational institutions SRĐAN VERBIĆ Serbian Minister of Education, Science and Technological Development

“W

e are either implementing or preparing to implement numerous changes at all educational levels, which should provide students with better knowledge and establish transparency, predictability and clear criteria for the success of all participants in this delicate and exceptionally socially important process,” says Srđan Verbić, Minister of Education, Science and Technological Development. • You have said that the ministry's priorities were increasing the level of competence and developing our educa-

Salaries, which introduces wage categories for teachers and educational workers, as well as for the rest of the public sector. We will also see changes made to the umbrella Law on Education and the Law on the Foundations of the Education System, which will introduce many innovations. Through these laws we will also improve the work done by the education inspectorate, as well as making changes to the area of science and innovation, in addition to many other areas covered by this ministry. Establishing an information system that will help us make decisions on the basis of data and facts, as opposed to

THE PUBLIC RATING OF HIGHER LEARNING INSTITUTIONS WILL HELP FOURTH GRADE HIGH SCHOOL PUPILS SELECT WHERE TO STUDY AND HELP EMPLOYERS FIND APPROPRIATE WORKERS tion system. What does that mean in practice, in terms of the ministry's legislative activities? - Our education system simply craves great change. We have already implemented some, but it seems to me that we are yet to implement the most important changes. Huge changes in the education system will take place immediately after the passing of the Law on

on the basis of feeling and estimates, as has been the case to date, will be of the greatest assistance when it comes to us making the aforementioned changes. • What changes will be made to elementary schooling in terms of textbooks and the rating of acquired knowledge? - We are currently in the process of passing a new Law on Textbooks, which will

GUIDE TO PRIVATE AND STATE EDUCATION IN SERBIA 2015/2016

not only improve the quality of school textbooks significantly, but will also make them more available to those pupils who could not previously access them. Let me clarify this and add that I am not referring to the distribution of free textbooks, although we have also made significant changes in that aspect. We have managed to find a solution for high school students who didn't have any textbooks at all, due to the inability of publishers to generate any profit from them. We also have a solution regarding textbooks for children living with special needs, who require specialised books (for instance, in the Braille script). Then there are low circulation books for national minorities who are studying in languages other than Serbian and similar. We have also made use of E-books and introduced an electronic addition to textbooks that we believe will be an important learning aid that will improve the quality of textbooks. Knowledge acquired in primary schools is constantly being measured and the public is itching to know about the end-of-year exam. We have made fewer changes to this segment, in order to make it an objective indicator of pupil's knowledge and success at school. Last year, for the first time ever, pupils took a third so-called combined exam, including

Serbian language and Maths exams. This year we have changed the scoring system slightly and made it more just. • According to Prime Minister Aleksandar Vučić, by next year or 2017 Serbia could have a so-called dual education system. In which way will this change the current approach to vocational schooling and to what extent will the dual education system be implemented? Which criteria will be used in selecting which Serbian schools or towns will implement this system? - When a country has a dual education system, this speaks more about its economy than education itself. By default, countries with stable economies and low unemployment rates have a huge number of companies which find it more cost-effective to invest in training their future workers while they are still at school, rather than hiring weaker candidates without adequate practical experience. We cannot copy the dual education system of Switzerland or Germany. We need to develop our own vocational training system that is adapted to our economy. • You have also announced the improving of work at gymnasium secondary schools and the introduction of an end-of-year exam there also, as a measure of acquired knowledge. How does that affect high school students and university entrance criteria? How can you provide good teachers at this time of austerity? - The end-of-year exam will replace university entrance exams and will resemble the end-of-year exams of primary schools. We recently conducted a survey among high school pupils, the results of which showed that most of high school fourth graders want to enrol in university in the same way they did when they were enrolling in their respective high schools, namely by compiling a list of schools they would like to enrol in. They think that having an end-of-year exam as opposed to a standard university entrance exam would be less stressful and give them

a better opportunity to actually enrol in their university of choice. Certain faculties have objected to this idea, but the end-of-year exam has proven to be a very good decision in quite a few countries. • What changes will the new Law on Higher Education introduce? - The current Law on Higher Education, which was amended in October last year, has been changed so many times, often in haste and under coercion, that it eventually became unusable. We want to pass a new law that

to be farsighted and become better at projecting which job qualifications the market will require in the next five years and more. We should also cease the hyper-production of useless vocations, because if we don't then we will only continue contributing to higher unemployment or further increase the brain drain. I have already mentioned that we will this year change the high school enrolment policy for the first time ever, for the mentioned reasons. We did encounter expected resistance, since the enrolment policy also influences the way schools are funded and the hiring of teachers. However, in the end, we need to be mindful of the priorities schools exist to promote in the first place. • In your opinion, how should we regulate state-run and private schools in order for both to foster high education standards, while at the same time becoming validated by the market? - During the last round of accreditations, which is still continuing, the Accreditation and Quality Commission raised standards for all higher education institutions significantly. Here in Serbia, however, there is no real com-

WE SHOULD STOP WITH THE HYPER-PRODUCTION OF USELESS VOCATIONS, BECAUSE IF WE DON'T THEN WE WILL CONTINUE CONTRIBUTING TO HIGHER UNEMPLOYMENT OR FURTHER INCREASE THE BRAIN DRAIN would, first and foremost, bring order to the funding of higher education facilities in a transparent and just manner. The new law should also create opportunities to raise the quality of university studies and define detailed procedures that will be honoured. • In which way should Serbia reform its education system to ensure it is more adaptable to market requirements? How can we achieve balance between employers and society's interests in terms of enabling diverse and good quality education for individuals? - If we are talking about high school education, which basically prepares students for the labour market, we need

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petition among educational institutions. It seems to me that employers play a major role in this respect, since sometimes they even admit publicly that they would rather have higher achieving students from certain faculties than others who proved to be unsatisfactory. We have decided to start ranking higher learning institutions based on very detailed indicators. Such a public rating will be helpful to all interested parties, in addition to helping fourth grade high school pupils select where to study or helping employers find appropriate workers. These rankings will provide realistic quality appraisal of higher learning facilities, which will then be forced to raise the quality of their studies. ■

GUIDE TO PRIVATE AND STATE EDUCATION IN SERBIA 2015/2016

ANY 2012

INTERVIEW

Creative Approach to Education The Ruđer Bošković Education System has spent almost two decades developing a particular education model that has been noticed both in Serbia and the region, thanks to the success of the students involved and their constant development MLADEN ŠARČEVIĆ

General Manager of the Ruđer Bošković Education System

ith its diverse curricular and extra-curricular programmes, the Ruđer Bošković Education System provides many opportunities for students through innovative learning, as well as creating opportunities for these students to achieve success as scientists, artists, linguists and athletes. Thanks to a highly educated team of teachers and professors who all have solid international reputations, this educational institution equips its students with the knowhow that will serve them well throughout their careers. The high quality of teaching is corroborated by numerous awards won by the students of the primary and secondary schools that comprise

• The Ruđer Bošković Education System is considered as a pioneer of the private education sector in Serbia. Could you tell us something about the development trajectory of your curriculum and what you offer students today? - We have been developing a very par-

THANKS TO OUR HIGHLY EDUCATED TEAM OF TEACHERS AND PROFESSORS, WHO ALL HAVE SOLID INTERNATIONAL REPUTATIONS, AND THE SUBSTANTIAL NUMBER OF SUBJECTS AVAILABLE, OUR STUDENTS CAN ACQUIRE VERY DIVERSE KNOWLEDGE, IN ADDITION TO DEVELOPING THEIR CREATIVITY AND INDEPENDENCE this educational institution. A namesake preschool was formed recently and also combines top quality teaching with a pleasant and stimulating environment. Curricular activities and discussions are held in English, while preschool pupils also learn about the Serbian language, culture and tradition.

GUIDE TO PRIVATE AND STATE EDUCATION IN SERBIA 2015/2016

ticular education model for the last two decades and it has been noticed both in Serbia and the region, thanks to the success of our students and their constant development. We initially opened a gymnasium secondary school, followed by a primary school, and now we also have a preschool

facility, all of which operate on the same campus, in a unique location on Košutnjak. During the first few years we taught the national curriculum at our classical gymnasium school, as well as in our foreign languages secondary and primary schools. It was almost a decade ago when our gymnasium started implementing one of the best international diploma programmes: IBDP, which is known for its fantastic results and is attended by children from this entire region. We are very proud of our well trained team of professors, all of whom have solid international reputations (they are known as international evaluators, team leaders and consultants). We have a substantial number of subjects available to students at all levels, providing them with a great choice and an opportunity to combine subjects in order to achieve the best results. Immediately after opening the gymnasium, we also opened the primary school, which was the first privately run educational facility in Serbia to be accredited by the international Cambridge Academic Programme. The gymnasium is also involved in the Cambridge IGSCE accreditation programme and, as of recently, its Alevel programme. This year the IB programme will be implemented at our primary school and the preschool facility at the PYP level (for ages 3 to 11).

Curricular activities and discussions are held in English, while pupils also learn about the Serbian language, culture and tradition. Our students are given an opportunity to complete their preparatory education in accordance with all three of the aforementioned concepts (the international Cambridge accreditation programme, IBDP and the national primary and high school curriculum).

- The teaching concept implemented at Ruđer Bošković is all-day classes for all ages. Children spend eight hours a day at school and the school provides food, in addition to conducting athletic, cultural, scientific and other activities. There are teams engaged in planning and implementing many different projects (environmental,

languages). The walls at our schools are covered in awards won by our students. We also participate every year in several international competitions (art, physics, mathematics). Our two strongest concepts are so-called specialised groups (comprising mathematicians, biologists, chemists etc.) and the Talent Centre.

• What sets international schools apart in terms of their curriculum and their approach to teaching? - Our biggest advantage lies in the way our students learn and the result of this is functional literacy. We place great emphasis on practice and an interdisciplinary approach, while our grades are external and realistic. Participating in the Cambridge learning programmes gives our students more

PARTICIPATION IN THE CAMBRIDGE LEARNING PROGRAMMES GIVES OUR STUDENTS MORE INDEPENDENCE AND A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF WHAT THEY ARE STUDYING, WHILE KNOWLEDGE GAINED IN THIS WAY LASTS LONGER AND IS MORE APPLICABLE

independence and better understanding of what they are studying. Knowledge gained in this way lasts longer and is more applicable. IB is an even more prestigious learning programme, since it fosters the individuality and creativity of students, while simultaneously developing their self-awareness and sense of responsibility. • What extra-curricular activities can your students participate in and how successful are they in academic competitions?

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humanitarian, media, musical, design, scientific and other) and they are implemented on a regular basis. We also have good collaboration with other schools in Serbia and Europe. We often take our students to visit museums, theatres, exhibitions and fairs. We also organise annual trips with the aim of enabling pupils to get to know Serbia better, while our primary school pupils go on well-devised excursions. The gymnasium students usually visit European cities (Rome, Paris, Athens, Barcelona). Popularising science and participating in top notch competitions organised by the Serbian Ministry of Education constitutes a special segment of our curricular work (both in the primary and secondary schools). We participate in various competitions and have achieved great results at the state level in almost all segments (mathematics, IT, natural and social sciences, sports, art, foreign

A substantial number of our students have been admitted to the internationally recognised PETNICA scientific youth station. The school itself has also organised competitions and rewards and promotes learning and creativity. For the past 11 years we have been organising the Exhibition of General Science Research Papers (biology, chemistry, history, geography and physics) in Belgrade. This year we are holding our jubilee philosophy competition called Cognitia Libera at the state level. We will also organise an international history and economics competition called Ruđer’s International Days. • How do you develop skills in your pupils and what innovative techniques do you use? - I would like to single out the following skills that our students possess – creativity, humanity, environmental awareness, independence in acquiring knowledge, good working habits and IT skills. Our latest innovative approach pertains to implementing the TESLA software programme, which facilitates the utilisation of tablets in the learning process, in all age groups, in accordance with their needs. ■

GUIDE TO PRIVATE AND STATE EDUCATION IN SERBIA 2015/2016

INTERVIEW

Education for st the 21 Century High quality education is the only road to a better life for us and future generations. This is the motto of LINK group, which is a pioneer in online education

Professor VALENTIN KULETO Ph.D., President of LINK group

aradoxically enough, today’s educational institutions employ cohorts of teachers who are unprepared for challenges in teaching and learning, being undertrained to meet the highly set demands of knowledge-hungry students. “We do it differently. We have set off with the notion to understand our students’ needs”, says Professor Valentin Kuleto, President of LINK group, advocating the company’s mission. “Having created a modern educational philosophy, we proudly provide dozens of educational programmes and hundreds of online courses globally”, continues Professor Kuleto, while emphasising the accessibility to learning his company offers.

more successful. This is where we set off. We have embedded our mission into every process, decision and approach, accounting for professional academic service. Our educational programmes are most accessible, our teacher bestversed, our equipment highest-tech and our staff kindest of a kind. While doing so, we strive to position our company as most innovative in the highly competitive market. We respond to this challenge by endowing the world with new solutions every day. With every successful step we make, we grow stronger in advocating the importance of being educated. It is high time schools relocated from industrial age to 21st century. Living the

WE HAVE CREATED SCHOOLS FOR A NEW AGE, NEW PEOPLE AND NEW LEADERS WHO ARE COURAGEOUSLY STEPPING TOWARDS PROFESSIONAL SUCCESS AND CONFIDENTLY GETTING AROUND IN THE DIGITAL WORLD • LINK group has over 20 years of experience in vocational, secondary and higher education. How is your education system organized and how do you deal with the modern day challenges in this area? - Our mission is to help people become

YouTube life, young people have knowledge instantly available in a click or two. Forty-five minute lessons are overrated - there’s no time for them any more! This paradigm shift is widely discussed today yet it can be easily overridden with visionary leadership. We have no time to

GUIDE TO PRIVATE AND STATE EDUCATION IN SERBIA 2015/2016

www.valentinkuleto.com waste while waiting for this to happen. This is the very reason why we have build our microcosm, in which we have both the right and the opportunity to change… Change the lives of the young people. Having realised that we have much more to offer globally than locally, we have decide to offer our services in the educational arena, where every trifle matters. Competing under these rules enables us to create high-quality services based on the globally-recognised standards. With this in view, we have forged partnerships with and received accreditations by some of the most influential companies such as Apple, Microsoft, Adobe and Autodesk, and institutions like the British Council, Pearson VUE, Chartered Management Institute, Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), European Council for Business Education (ECBE) and the University of Cambridge, among others. • There are seven educational institutions that operate under LINK group in Serbia. What educational profiles and levels do you offer to students in Serbia? - Having created a modern educational philosophy, we proudly provide dozens of educational programmes and hun-

dreds of online courses globally. Our team is large and is made of various experts. The programmes are designed and delivered by academics, learning specialists and experienced educators along with the support team of design and video production. From beginning to end, there’s a synced workflow: from those who make sure the educational materials are teachable, to those who make sure they are duly delivered, to those who provide undivided support to our students while ensuring that the educational potential is fully sourced. As far as our offer goes, we provide educational services related to the IT and business, both horizontally and vertically. In our system, there are two secondary schools, each focused on a specific academic aspect: Information Technology High School (www.iths. edu.rs), and Savremena International School (www.savremena.org.uk). Vertically, they seamlessly lead to our

tertiary institution - Information Technology School (www.its.edu.rs). Horizontally, we stretch over three professional academies: ITAcademy (www. it-akademija.com), BusinessAcademy (www.biznis/akademija.com) and InternetAcademy (www.biznis/akademija.com), which offer more than 50 oneyear professional programmes. Right now, we offer more than a hundred, and counting, internationally-recognised diplomas and certificates. We incessantly look for new opportunities in ensuring the best possible competences. Let me share with you an interesting piece of information. In the last year or so, we have

delivered almost 250,000 different online courses. This year, that figure has doubled - with 500,000 online courses available to learners globally. Thinking forward, we are in the processes of establishing a business school and an international primary school, wrapping up our educational offer. By doing so, we are able to cater to the educational needs of all our students - from primary to doctoral level. • LINK group is the leader in development of solutions for online education in Southeast Europe. Are these new educational formats sufficiently acknowledged in the region and what is your target group? - We are ahead of the time when the

• What is the position of education today? In order to achieve top results in business, how important is to constantly provide innovative knowhows and how does LINK group fare in this respect? - We left behind the time when education ended with getting diplomas. Today, you have to keep on moving. If you stop, you fail. This is understood by many but applied by few. Young people under the age of 30 face a huge unemployment rate, mainly caused by poor education. However, we can attest to the fact that in countries like Romania, where the unemployment rate is lower than the European average, good education gave dividends. In many countries in

IN THE LAST YEAR OR SO, WE HAVE DELIVERED ALMOST 250,000 DIFFERENT ONLINE COURSES. THIS YEAR, THAT FIGURE HAS DOUBLED WITH 500,000 ONLINE COURSES AVAILABLE TO LEARNERS GLOBALLY

technology-assisted learning opportunities had to be explained to students and their parents. Unlike many automatised learning systems, particularly those based solely on videoclips, we have insisted on the changed role of teachers in scaffolding students - they are now mentors and leaders. The concept that we adopted over a decade ago has now become one of the basic learning concepts. It is commonly accepted today that success is built on quality education. So far, we have catered to students aged 15 plus. Our digital technology and online platforms break geographic boundaries. Education has become portable.

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our region this is not the case. Youth unemployment has exceeded 50%, which is really devastating. On the other hand, educational institutions have lost the sense of their role and the reason of their existence. They have become self-sufficient. They adjust their programmes to suit their resources, teachers and the past experiences, and not the needs of their clients – pupils and students. Paradoxically enough, today’s educational institutions employ cohorts of teachers who are unprepared for challenges in teaching and learning, being under-trained to meet the highly set demands of knowledge-hungry students. They are book-reproducers instead of trainers, mentors and leaders… Really misplaced. We do it differently. We have set off with the notion to understand our students’ needs. We have created schools for a new age, new people and new leaders who are courageously stepping towards professional success and confidently getting around in the digital world. After all, we live in a time when we are educating the leaders of the new digital future. ■

GUIDE TO PRIVATE AND STATE EDUCATION IN SERBIA 2015/2016

INTERVIEW

Seal of Excellence Collaboration with the world’s leading experts, world-class faculty members, as well as more than 11,000 satisfied clients, have contributed greatly to the affirmation of this school as the leading business school in the SEE region LYNNE MONTGOMERY

Vice President of the COTRUGLI Business School

he COTRUGLI Business School is a leading business school in Southeast Europe, with headquarters in Croatia and Serbia and offices in Ljubljana, Sofia, Bucharest, Vienna and Beijing. • What sets COTRUGLI Business School apart from other schools that provide managerial education? - I think what makes COTRUGLI different is a unique combination of factors: the network of participants (students), professors who are not just academics but also all have international business and consulting experience, the fact that the whole programme is in English, and a wide variety of modules covering all aspects of business and combining theoretical (30%) and practical (70%) knowledge. Additionally, all COTRUGLI MBA programmes have prestigious international accreditation from the Association of MBAs. This represents a seal of

and Executive MBA programmes. How great is the interest in this scholarship project and how many students have so far completed your programmes? - There is tremendous interest in the scholarships. We clearly do this as a very innovative CSR project and we do it because we would not want an extremely talented person(s) to lose out on this type of educational and life experience if we can, in some way, help with their financing. We believe strongly in the talent of young people in this region and, as a business school, we strive not just to “talk the talk”, but rather we “walk the walk”. Over three million euros has been invested in these scholarships so far, in all countries where we operate. The interest in this type of the project is very high, as we usually have around 3,000 applications annually in all countries across the region. Our Alumni community currently

I BELIEVE EDUCATION IS CRUCIAL TO ELEVATING THIS REGION OUT OF THE ECONOMIC CRISIS AND DEVELOPING HUMAN CAPITAL TO ITS FULLEST POTENTIAL excellence for MBA programmes for many top schools around the world, such as IMD in Switzerland, IESE in Spain, the London Business School and INSEAD in France, among others. 4 | INTERNATIONAL GERMANY 2012 • COTRUGLI Business School awards scholarships for its International

GUIDE TO PRIVATE AND STATE EDUCATION IN SERBIA 2015/2016

consists of over 1,400 students that have either completed the programme or are currently in the programme, while over 11,000 managers and executives have at some point engaged in the school’s educational programmes, such as Open Enrolment and In-house programmes.

• How important is the COTRUGLI Alumni Community network in the region when it comes to the exchange of experience and career advancement? - I think networking within the Alumni community – with us, with the professors, with regional and international companies, with our guests and all they are exposed to – is quite unique and provides many professional opportunities. All events we or the Alumni organise have one purpose in mind: lifelong learning and exposure to ideas, trends and opinions, which is crucial to creating leaders in every sphere for tomorrow. • You have teaching experience and great expertise in business development, PR and consulting. How important are these skills/expertise for educating professionals in this region? - That is a very kind question! I believe in education as strongly as I believe in the young people of the region. And I can say with some confidence that it is the key to elevating this region out of the economic crisis and developing human capital to its fullest potential. When I speak of education, I mean it in the broadest sense in terms of skills, knowledge, training, expertise, language proficiency, creativity, entrepreneurial talents; in short – thinking and living “out of the box”. However, educational ministries, private and public faculties and businesses need a common and coherent thread to pull this together in the region. And that’s the challenge. ■

BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL BELGRADE

Caring for Every Aspect of Students’ Lives The British International School Belgrade provides a happy, caring and secure environment to all its students and encourages them to achieve their maximum potential in all aspects of school life

ALEKSANDRA KESEROVIĆ, (left) Chef of the British International School,Crown Prince ALEXANDER and ANDRIANA DANILOVIĆ

he British International School was opened in Belgrade in 1997 to cater for the needs of diplomatic and foreign business families, as well as local families seeking education in the English language for their children. BIS was the first school in Serbia to be registered by the British Department for Education (DfE), as well as by the University of Cambridge. BIS is a member of the European Council of International Schools (ECIS) and an member of the Council of British International Schools (COBIS). It is recognised by the Serbian Ministry of Education as a school offering foreign curricula. BIS provide a happy, caring and secure environment, where each student is helped to feel equally important and is encouraged to achieve his or her maximum potential in all aspects of school life. The personal and social development of our students underpins all teaching and learning activities at BIS. BIS AWARD CEREMONY AT THE ROYAL PALACE This year once again a number of BIS students successfully complete the three levels of the International Award for Young People that is more commonly known as the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Students were recently presented with their certificates at a presentation ceremony hosted by HRH Crown Prince

Alexander and HRH Crown Princess Katherine at the Royal Palace. Having spent weekends camping and completed many theory and practical tests, all the students (and their representatives) were thrilled to have their achievements recognised by their royal highnesses and Prince Alexander addressed them at the ceremony, expounding upon the theme of the value of such awards, before mentioning the fact that he also completed the Duke of Edinburgh Award when he was a student at Gordonstoun School. BIS Principal, Ms Aleksandra Keserović, gave a speech ex-

dents learn about first aid, danger in the mountains, camping, orienteering, outdoor sports and necessary equipment, amongst other topics. They then undertake two expeditions per Award level, in order to demonstrate what they have learned; the first expedition is a training run, while the second goes towards their Award level. Moreover, students must also spend a certain number of months completing a form of volunteer work. At the Bronze Award level students complete a two-day expedition with one night away, but by the Gold level this rises to one qualifying expedition of four

THIS YEAR ONCE AGAIN HRH CROWN PRINCE ALEXANDER PRESENTED DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD CERTIFICATES TO BIS STUDENTS WHO SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED THEIR EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AT BIS tolling the virtues and importance of the education they have received, as well as the challenges they faced in meeting the demands of this activity alongside their continuing academic progress. HRH Crown Prince Alexander handed out a total of 14 awards; 1 Gold, 4 Silver and 9 at the Bronze Level. The Duke of Edinburgh Award is offered to students aged over 14 as one of the extra-curricular activities at BIS. Students had to learn both practical skills in weekly meetings, as well as undertaking expeditions. During these meetings stu-

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days and three nights (which must be in “wild country”) and also a separate residential of five days and four nights. Completing this enables students to build their level of independence and a real belief in themselves, beyond their academic work. BIS is grateful to have this shared belief with their royal highnesses. In doing so, it clearly demonstrates to the students the value that Principal Keserović has, not only for achieving excellent examination grades, but also for the overall development of students. ■

GUIDE TO PRIVATE AND STATE EDUCATION IN SERBIA 2015/2016

PRIMA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

The Joy of Learning PRIMA International School wants pupils to remain curious and motivated by the world they live in, now and for the rest of their lives

ducation plays a very important role in nurturing the mind and the overall personality of the child, leading to a bright future. The world is changing quickly and in this ever-changing global village the importance of a value based world-class education is becoming highly crucial to success. In choosing the right school for their children, parents are often haunted by questions like: How can we provide our children with the best education? Which school will help them discover their talent? Which school will nurture our children's future? How will the school help our children grow into confident and capable people ready to take on the world? The answer to all these questions can be found here at PRIMA International School!

At PRIMA International School, all this happens within a caring community environment that collaborates to inspire everybody in it – students, teachers and parents. We believe your children’s happiness and wellbeing is as important as their acquisition of knowledge and understanding, as both are fundamental to their future achievements. Above all, we want our students to feel good about who they are and where they come from, and to prize learning as a lifelong journey. Director Brigitte MacIntosh BEYOND THE CLASSROOM AT PRIMA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Our new premises comprise adequate play areas equipped with swings, seesaws, slides, sand boxes etc.; track and field; a basketball court, a football pitch, a volleyball court and an open summer theatre stage which inspires our students to enjoy the Drama and Performing Arts Activities. The PRIMA Primary After-School Activities Programme offers opportu-

PRIMA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL IS A VIBRANT AND EXCITING SCHOOL AND WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU! WELCOME FROM THE DIRECTOR Walk with me… …and you will quickly find there is something special about our school. Some people say it is our spirit, others see it is the way we live our values. We also believe it is our all-encompassing commitment to instil the joy of learning in everything we do.

nities for children to extend their interests and talents in a wide variety of enrichment classes. The PRIMA Cultural Saturday Centre offers sports, games, art, music, dance and languages every Saturday to students of all ages! The PRIMA Summer Camp offers a variety of activities, such as arts and crafts,

GUIDE TO PRIVATE AND STATE EDUCATION IN SERBIA 2015/2016

music, sports, social activities, languages, movie time, computers, dancing, water sports and swimming, outings, drama, etc. The PRIMA Choir introduces children to a variety of musical styles. Taking full advantage of our location in one of the most culturally-rich cities in the Balkan region, PRIMA students experience exciting and educationally relevant trips throughout the year, from day trips to local parks, museums and theatres, to overnight stays. 10 GOOD REASONS TO MAKE PRIMA YOUR NEXT SCHOOL • PRIMA delivers a challenging and rigorous CIE programme to local and expat families successfully. • Our reputation attracts highly experienced, specialist subject-area teachers from around the world. • We build strong relationships with parents. • Our curriculum champions interdisciplinary, inquiry-based learning that promotes creative and critical thinking skills. • We offer expert Learning Support and English as an Additional Language. • We believe great learning takes place in and outside of the classroom. • Standardised testing in reading, writing and mathematics is used to measure student progress and academic growth. • Our building is purpose-built with new science and IT labs, music and art rooms, a large sports field and an openair summer stage. • Our school community is genuinely inclusive, with over 40 different nationalities represented. • By visiting our school you will be able to really appreciate the busy, happy atmosphere created by the students and staff. ■

INTERVIEW

Technical Science Knows no Boundaries Our internationally-recognised diploma enables graduates to secure well-paid jobs abroad NENAD ZRNIĆ

Vice Dean for Education, Belgrade University Faculty of Mechanical Engineering

n recent years the number of high school graduates wanting to enrol in the Belgrade Faculty of Mechanical Engineering has been on the rise. Last year’s number of applicants for the entrance examination was twice the number of students financed from the budget of Serbia. We are also thrilled by two more facts. The average high school grades achieved by candidates for admission to our faculty is increasingly higher, and in 2014 we achieved a balance between freshmen students who have completed secondary gymnasium schools and those coming from secondary technical schools.

• Why do you think the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering has become one of the most popular choices among future students today? - Increased motivation for studying can be analysed in two ways. The first relates to the fact that technical science knows no boundaries, thus our internationallyrecognised diploma enables our graduates to secure well-paid jobs abroad. Our goal is not to educate students who will seek their future outside Serbia upon graduation, but, on the other hand, the brain drain also exists in highly developed countries. Another indicator shows that interest in our faculty is experiencing exceptional growth, but this is not the case for mechanical engineering studies at other universities in Serbia, which is a consequence of raising awareness among young people that they should complete their studies ANY 2012 at elite higher education institutions, as this is a guarantee of the quality of knowledge that employers and the labour market certainly know how to appreciate. The

comparative advantage of the Belgrade Faculty of Mechanical Engineering is also reflected in our excellent infrastructure facilities, classrooms equipped with computers and laboratories, as well as a large number of licenced software programs, which ensures high quality teaching processes and undoubtedly puts us in a leading position in the field of mechanical engineering in Serbia. Our desire and expectation is to become the leader in the educating of mechanical engineers in Southeast Europe. • Which courses do students most commonly apply for and how does the Belgrade Faculty of Mechanical Engineering

• Your school has received international accreditation, thus the diplomas gained are also recognised in Germany. How much of a challenge does this pose to the college when it comes to the quality of professional staff and knowledge? - In addition to the international accreditation of our study programmes by German Accreditation Body ASIIN, we also have a shipbuilding module accredited by the British Royal Institution of Naval Architects, RINA. Through the EU’s HETIP IPA project, we have drastically modernised laboratory equipment and space, as well as obtaining equipment worth several million euros that will be used

THE COMPARATIVE ADVANTAGE OF THE FACULTY OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING IS ALSO REFLECTED IN OUR EXCELLENT INFRASTRUCTURE FACILITIES, CLASSROOMS EQUIPPED WITH COMPUTERS AND LABORATORIES make innovations to its curriculum with subjects reflecting the greatest technological changes? - The Faculty of Mechanical Engineering offers education in degree programmes: Bachelor studies, Master studies and Doctoral studies. Specialisation in the narrower sense is achieved on the master studies through one of 22 existing modules that cover all areas of mechanical engineering. Students’ interest in individual modules follows the trends of the labour market. With the introduction of the Bologna process to teaching, the continuous updating of the curricula is conducted, along with the monitoring of the tendencies of education at the world’s leading universities.

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for working with students. High quality teaching staff, along with the energy and desire for advancement among young assistant professors, represents a guarantee of future success. • Do you believe there are prospects for your college and related faculties to again teach foreign students and, if so, what are the preconditions for that to be achieved? - In 2013 we also received accreditation to teach in the English language. Over 70 foreign nationals currently attend such courses. With the further affirmation of the international reputation of our faculty, it is realistic to expect a permanent increase in the number of foreign students. ■

GUIDE TO PRIVATE AND STATE EDUCATION IN SERBIA 2015/2016

INTERVIEW

Market Customised Education

All study programmes at the EDUCONS University are a result of this institution's determination to provide its students with sustainable knowhow and, as of recently, and with the help of donor funds, a sure path to securing a job Professor ALEKSANDAR ANDREJEVIĆ Rector of the EDUCONS University, Serbia

“T

he EDUCONS University provides students with interactive classes and an opportunity to acquire knowledge that is work applicable,” says Professor Aleksandar Andrejević, Rector of the EDUCONS University. • EDUCONS is the first, privately run university in Vojvodina and comprises 11 faculties. Which educational profiles and learning levels do you facilitate? - The EDUCONS University, based in Sremska Kamenica, was founded in 2008. This is a dynamic higher learning institution which currently comprises 11 faculties – the Information Technology Faculty, Digital Production Faculty, Applied Security Faculty, Environmental Protection Faculty, Organic Agriculture Faculty, Business Economic Faculty, Fine Art Academy, Sport and Tour-

clear position of the EDUCONS University in the applied sciences segment, which means that we primarily provide applicable academic knowhow that helps students find their way in the dynamic business environment, considering the times in which we live and work. In collaboration with the highly ranked University of Hong Kong, we have trained our teachers and researchers to use the latest knowledge transfer in accordance with stateof-the-art technological innovations. Such a format for implementation of the teaching process is known at universities across the world as blended learning. This is a combination of an interactive conversation and exchange of knowledge through professors having discussions with groups of students during and after classes, while using all the latest technological advancements (mobile phones, iPads, lap tops etc).

IN COLLABORATION WITH THE HIGHLY RANKED UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG, WE HAVE TRAINED OUR TEACHERS AND RESEARCHERS TO USE THE LATEST KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS • As of the next academic year, EDUCONS University will have its own dormitory and sports hall. Could you tell us more about that? - EDUCONS University has been investing substantially in raising the living standard of our students. As of June 2015, the University will have a dormitory and in September we will start building a sports hall that we • How does the EDUCONS curriculum differ in terms of content and quality? 4 | INTERNATIONAL GERMANY 2012 hope will make student life at the university more fulfilling. - All of our study programmes stem from a ism Faculty, European Legal and Political Studies Faculty, Teaching Faculty and Project Management Faculty. Classes at all of these faculties are taught at all study levels, including basic, masters, specialised and Ph.D. studies.

GUIDE TO PRIVATE AND STATE EDUCATION IN SERBIA 2015/2016

• In which way does the University cooperate with business and local community? How does that tie in with acquiring practical skills and hiring students who graduated from your University? - As of late, EDUCONS University has started to base its education format and training future workforce on the principle of fund-donor practices. This means that at present the majority of our faculties have partners in the labour market to suit their study programmes, i.e. fund donors who are recognised as leaders in their respective fields. In this way we have been directly implementing so-called project-based studying and, thus, becoming a targeted service for the business community. This concept has two basic implications – fulfilling companies’ needs for a qualified workforce and enabling our students to gain employment. Such a partnership format with fund donors means that students are guaranteed jobs, while companies have a great opportunity to acquire workers tailored to meet their needs, thanks to their active participation in creating study programmes. ■

Acquire Italian degree by studying in English language at eCampus university branch in Belgrade!

New Branch University in Belgrade! eCampus University was established on the 30th January 2006 by the Italian Ministry of Education, University and Research (MIUR) eCampus University Bulevar Despota Stefana 68c, 11000 Belgrade, 011 655 75 02 Web: www.ecampus.rs · E-mail: info@ecampus.rs WHAT MAKES US UNIQUE? • The possibility of attending the Italian university in your homeland • Acquisition of skills typical for the Italian educational system • Acquisition of the Italian degree recognised in Europe • Highly qualified university professors • Outstanding quality e-learning system offering a personalized online platform for each student

• Personal tutors always available for administrative and academic support • Possibility of credit transfer • Maximisation of student’s personal time • e-Learning lessons available anytime and anywhere • 24/7 Student support:

UNDERGRADUATE STUDIES AVAILABLE IN ENGLISH Business and Economics • Computer and Control Engineering • Civil and Environmental Engineering Industrial Engineering • Fashion & design

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GUIDE TO PRIVATE AND STATE EDUCATION IN SERBIA 2015/2016

INTERVIEW

Fostering High Criteria

The University of Belgrade - Faculty of Chemistry is one of the leading scientific institutions in Southeast Europe Professor BRANIMIR JOVANČIĆEVIĆ Ph.D., Faculty of Chemistry - Belgrade

niversity of Belgrade - Faculty of Chemistry is a higher learning institution which consistently applies the university principle according to which good teaching stems from good quality scientific work. The Faculty is known for fostering science and for decades the scientists of the Faculty of Chemistry have strived to be on an equal footing with their counterparts from highly developed countries.

• What references does the Faculty possess in the area of scientific and research work? - Staff members at the Faculty of Chemistry have been cooperating regularly with institutes and universities from highly developed countries. Thanks to the funds provided by the Ministry of Science and the European Commission, we have managed to purchase the latest instruments to improve the quality of equipment we use at the Faculty. Only a researcher with actual experience as a lecturer

• How does the Faculty of Chemistry manage to deal with the challenges of the 21st century in terms of the content it offers and study quality during this time of crisis? - Back in the 1990s, when the environment for conducting scientific work in Serbia was extremely bad, the Faculty of Chemistry had an internal agreement that we would adhere to the principle of fostering high criteria. These criteria stand to this day and are applicable both to professors and students. It was equally as difficult for professors to advance in their careers as it was for students

IN 2014 THE FACULTY OF CHEMISTRY’S PROFESSORS AND ASSOCIATES PUBLISHED 168 PAPERS IN JOURNALS FROM THE PRESTIGIOUS SCI LIST, WITH 83 PUBLISHED IN THE WORLD’S LEADING SCIENTIFIC JOURNALS to complete their very demanding chemistry studies. But our principle yielded results. Today the Faculty of Chemistry in Belgrade is a renowned and accepted university institu| INTERNATIONAL GERMANY 2012 tion4worldwide. Some chemistry graduates didn’t have much trouble finding a place at very prestigious foreign universities and institutes.

and who has completed their post-doctoral studies abroad for at least a year can be appointed as an assistant professor. In order to become a professor and teach at our Faculty, you need to have at least 40 published papers in journals from the SCI list and have them quoted at least a hundred times. On the other hand, a Ph.D. student cannot present their doc-

GUIDE TO PRIVATE AND STATE EDUCATION IN SERBIA 2015/2016

toral dissertation if they have not published at least two papers in SCI journals. • How do you ensure the quality of your permanent and guest lecturers? - The competition is stiff. Candidates have usually achieved teaching and scientific results that far exceed the legally required minimum. We can choose among such tough competition and, by default, young professors already have a substantial body of scientific work behind them before they start working for us. Strict requirements push our staff to be constantly active; to come up with new experiements and prepare publications. By advancing in science, they also increase their teaching capacities. The quality of teaching and scientific work is usually enhanced through frequent lectures by guest lecturers from abroad, all of whom have a very good scientific reputation. • Which national and international institutions usually hire your graduates? - The Faculty of Chemistry gives young people an opportunity to become excellent chemists. The majority of our best students already possess substantial knowledge of chemistry and usually go abroad to obtain their Ph.D. In that respect, they are no different from their counterparts who have graduated from the most prestigious universities elsewhere in the world. Luckily, a certain number of them stay here and, thanks to them, the Faculty is able to supplement its staff infastructure. There are virtually no industries that don’t need a chemist, whether they are directly involved in production or quality assurance. Just like the majority of other areas, finding a job as a chemist after graduation is a huge life challenge for any young person. ■

TODORIS ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS

Knowledge for a More Beautiful World

he Todoris Academy of Fine Arts is a privately run and fully accredited higher learning institution which operates under the auspices of Belgrade’s Union University. The Academy has an 18-year tradition and accredited art studies, conducted in accordance with the Bologna Declaration, ensure our institution is recognisable in the European education space. We carefully monitor modern development trends and are fully aware that education of young generations is one of the most important factors of present, and particularly future, development. In this time of boisterous development and fast changes in our mobile world, the following questions continue gaining importance: how to keep pace with the times; how to prepare young people for a future that will be even more complex and; how to ensure economic, cultural, social and scientific development? With that in mind, talented individuals deserve the special attention we give them. As a higher learning

institution in art, we seek talented individuals and provide them with adequate artistic education in areas like painting, acting, design, art production management and media. Although we are fully aware of the fact that social elite abides by their own laws and formation principles not based on talent, we believe that talented people should compose

modernism. We have therefore been doing our utmost for our study programmes to cover all segments of art, including as many professors, associates and renowned artists in our teaching process as possible, as these are people able to implement the wealth of their artistic experience in their teaching work and use modern means, meth-

AS A HIGHER LEARNING INSTITUTION IN ART, WE SEEK TALENTED INDIVIDUALS AND PROVIDE THEM WITH ADEQUATE ARTISTIC EDUCATION IN AREAS LIKE PAINTING, ACTING, DESIGN, ART PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT AND MEDIA the social elite, which is why we have set up a scholarship fund that will help them achieve that. A substantial number of staged exhibitions, theatre plays and concerts serve to validate the true talent of our students and the quality of our educational work. Contemporary education is very complex in this time of globalisation, globalism, multi-culture, democratisation, transition and post-

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ods and techniques. Successful Master’s and Ph.D. students are involved in the teaching process, which is one of the ways our faculty cares about its students and their future. We are very proud to note that academic Vladimir Veličković and professor emeritus Vida Ognjenović both lecture at our faculty. ■

Saša Filipović

Academy Dean and Professor

GUIDE TO PRIVATE AND STATE EDUCATION IN SERBIA 2015/2016

THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF BELGRADE

Tradition and Excellence Since 1948 the International School of Belgrade has provided a quality education to the international community in Belgrade, relying on innovative and best instructional practice to address the varying learning styles of our students

pportunities for academic excellence, artistic expression and international understanding are accessible for every student at the International School of Belgrade (ISB). Our challenging and diverse programs offer a high quality international education with a global perspective. ISB relies on innovative and best instructional practice to ensure we address the varying learning styles of our students. From Pre–Kindergarten through Grade 12, ISB caters to a student population that represents over 40 nationalities. Our professional faculty and support staff are proud to serve such a multi-cultural student body. Our dynamic curriculum is based on the highly regarded International Baccalaureate Diploma, Middle and Primary Years programs. Like all high quality international

schools, ISB is accredited by educational agencies: the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and the Council of International Schools. Moreover, we are an authorised IB World School, where students learn to implement change with compassion and creativity in a complex global environment, and we are also authorised by the Serbian Min-

OUR CHALLENGING AND DIVERSE PROGRAMMES OFFER A HIGH QUALITY INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION WITH A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE

GUIDE TO PRIVATE AND STATE EDUCATION IN SERBIA 2015/2016

istry of Education, Science and Technological Development. Since 1948 we have provided a quality education to the international community in Belgrade and our students’ parents have been vital partners since our inception. We appreciate the fact that they entrust us with the care of their children. We communicate regularly and openly with our school community members, while taking continuous steps towards improvement. And we will continue to do this in the months and years ahead. Finally, we are fortunate to be working in partnership with the ISB Board of Trustees; our board members unselfishly offer their time and talents in order to ensure the continuous improvement of programmes and services for all of our children. It is truly an honour to be a part of this vibrant and caring community, which has a clear mission: ISB is a collaborative learning community that inspires and empowers its members to discover their passion to be global innovators. ■

INTERVIEW

Enrol in Your Future at the Faculty of Diplomacy and Security

se your knowledge to secure your own future, expand your horizons and properly interpret the world you live, in order to be able to change it; give yourself a chance to be taught by diplomats and people who know just how important security is for both individuals and countries; establish a dialogue with renowned and competent professors, expand your curiosity and thwart the automatic consumption of knowledge. Do this not in order to strive to gain a diploma alone,

but rather in order to become a person who can use their diploma from the faculty for diplomacy and security to open every door in the world. CORPORATE SECURITY Students who enrol in the Faculty of Diplomacy and Security will learn about all elements of corporate security, which encompasses the protection of human resources, corporate assets and corporate processes from loss, damage or destruction through the hostile or malicious actions of

individuals, groups, institutions and natural disasters. This major study subject also encompasses planning, supervision, revision and continuous work carried out by exterior and interior security services. MORE SPECIFICALLY… Students of the Faculty of Diplomacy and Security will learn diplomatic skills, oratory skills, diplomatic protocol, martial arts, use of firearms, dancing, negotiation skills, critical negotiating and creative thinking. ■

OUR PROGRAMMES BASIC ACADEMIC STUDIES – DIPLOMACY AND SECURITY MASTER ACADEMIC STUDIES – DIPLOMACY AND SECURITY MASTER ACADEMIC STUDIES – CORPORATE SECURITY

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GUIDE TO PRIVATE AND STATE EDUCATION IN SERBIA 2015/2016

THE INTERNATIONAL NURSERY SCHOOL BELGRADE (INSB)

Learn Through Play INSB has been responsible for the care and education of children for over 60 years. All three of its departments are committed to offering a safe and happy environment for pupils from 18 months old to year six

he International Nursery School Belgrade (INSB) and the International Primary School (IPS) are here to serve both the local and international communities. The Nursery School caters for children aged from 18 months to three years. The Primary School comprises the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) & Primary years one and two. Our intention is build year upon year until we reach year six. Since its inception in 2014, the International Primary School (IPS) has offered a comprehensive and stimulating learning environment via the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework and Primary Curriculum of England. Our three departments are committed to continual self-evaluation, compliance with modern childcare provision standards and, most importantly, child protection.

NURSERY Our nursery school is where children first learn to feel comfortable away from their parents. It is where they begin to adapt to the big, wondrous world beyond the home. Supportive teachers provide a warm environment, encouraging exploration without undue pressure on our most delicate and sensitive students. To quote D.W. Winnicott, we believe that “the nursery is the natural extension up from the family, not the natural extension down from school.”  EARLY YEARS FOUNDATION STAGE The EFYS two-year programme provides children with myriad opportunities, internally and externally, to explore seven areas of development. Play remains a very important method of learning and may be enhanced by teacher involvement. Focused activities increase

WE WELCOME CHILDREN FROM ALL NATIONS AND ADOPT AND SUPPORT THE VALUES OF TOLERANCE, COOPERATION AND RESPECT, AS WELL AS NURTURING THE DIVERSITY OF OUR STUDENTS We welcome children from all nations and adopt and support the values of tolerance, cooperation and respect, as well as nurturing the diversity of our students. We are housed in a beautifully adapted three-storey building in the leafy suburb of Senjak. Our large grounds and play equipment offer children the opportunity to run and play freely. Our new playground equipment brings us up to European safety standards.

GUIDE TO PRIVATE AND STATE EDUCATION IN SERBIA 2015/2016

and a Phonics programme is introduced. Children begin to read and write. The world has opened up. PRIMARY SCHOOL Our primary school curriculum fosters learning in ten subjects, making links between these where possible. We all know the 3Rs of Reading, Writing and Arithmetic. At IPS we also provide an environment of Reason, Respect, and Resilience in pursuit of goals. Our children learn to question, communicate, think and problem solve. We formalise the concepts and inklings acquired in the EYFS, and strive to ensure our children will be adept, confident and dignified global citizens. Simply put, we at INSB & IPS aim to broaden a child’s understanding and communication with the world around them, in a safe and happy environment. Our website, www.insb.rs, will provide more information, as will a telephone call to either of our directors: Primary & EYFS: +381(0)63 69 63 61 & Nursery: +381(0)63 863 69 65. ■

Where your children learn to question, communicate, think and solve problems in a nurturing, playful and supportive environment

R CAM

P A

EAR SU L Y

THE EN

THE SCH

Schooling Future Global Citizens

* Early childhood and primary education * Children from 18 months - 7 years * Stimulating and comprehensive curriculum

* Small classes with a 1:6 teacher - child ratio * School hours 8.00 am - 3.00 pm * After school activities till 4.00 pm drama, football, swimming, ceramics, ballet and more

* Toddler sessions from 12 months for easier adaption * Experienced teachers * Oldest and most respected international nursery in Belgrade

www.insb.rs Temisvarska 2, Senjak, 11000 Belgrade â&#x20AC;˘ tel: +381 (0)11 266 7130 mobile: +381 (0)63 8636 965 â&#x20AC;˘ e-mail: office@insb.rs

C H A RT W E L L -

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

S C H O O L

Excellence

s d r a w o T

• 14 years of experience • Caring environment tailored to the academic and personal needs of each child • • Preparing students to thrive in an increasingly technological and multicultural society • • Internationally renowned qualifications • Graduates accepted into prestigious colleges and universities worldwide • PRE-SCHOOL

PRIMARY

Teodora Drajzera 38; +381 11 3675 299

SECONDARY

Tolstojeva 54; +381 11 3675 299

Lackoviceva 6; +381 11 3675 340

ACCREDITED BY: Ministarstvo prosvete nauke i tehnološkog razvoja

reception@chartwell.edu.rs • www.chartwell.edu.rs