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An educational project is a structured series of actions and interventions aimed at promoting the personal, cultural, and social development of individuals and communities through both formal and informal learning. The Andrea Bocelli Foundation distinguishes itself through its tailor-made approach: each project is adapted to the specific context in which it is implemented.

While all projects are rooted in ABF’s overarching mission and vision, their uniqueness lies in their ability to respond directly to local needs. A project can only be truly effective if it aligns with the particular requirements and dynamics of the territory. For this reason, ABF places great emphasis on thorough context analysis—not only through observation, but above all through dialogue and collaboration with beneficiaries and local stakeholders.

This methodology defines what ABF calls participatory design: a co-design process in which projects are built with communities, not merely for them.

In this spirit, since 2019 ABF has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Italian Ministry of Education and Merit (MiM) to promote and implement innovative educational programs in schools and hospital schools.

A further distinguishing feature of ABF’s educational work is its focus on social innovation. The goal is not simply to provide services, but to create pilot models that are scalable and replicable—models that can drive lasting, positive change in diverse contexts.

The Different Types of Educational Projects

ABF considers schools to be key environments for cultural and social transformation. For this reason, many of its educational projects are carried out in mainstream and hospital schools, ensuring continuity of education even in the most fragile situations. Music, a universal language of expression, plays a central role in many ABF initiatives.

One of the flagship programs is the Social Choir, which goes beyond musical training. While participants learn to sing, the primary aim is to foster individual and collective empowerment through shared experience.

In addition, ABF Masterclasses  offer specialized training for those who wish to pursue advanced musical development.

Another fundamental focus of ABF’s educational strategy is the development of soft skills—those essential, transferable abilities that enable individuals to navigate learning, work, and life. Encouraging the development of these soft skills helps children, young people, and adults realize their full potential.

The Stages of an Educational Project

Developing an educational project is a dynamic and multi-phase process that typically includes:

  1. Preliminary Context Analysis
    The most crucial step. It involves gaining an in-depth understanding of the territory, identifying its real needs, available resources, critical issues, and potential opportunities.
  2. Participatory Planning
    Based on the information gathered, a co-design phase is initiated with all stakeholders involved—schools, families, local authorities, and community members.
  3. Objective Planning and Definition
    Clear, measurable goals are set in direct response to the needs that emerged during the analysis phase.
  4. Project Implementation
    This phase involves putting the project into action through educational activities, workshops, training programs, and creative or artistic initiatives.
  5. Monitoring and Evaluation
    Ongoing feedback is collected from stakeholders and participants to assess the effectiveness and impact of the project.
  6. Sustainability and Replicability
    The ultimate goal is to develop models that are sustainable and adaptable to other contexts—driving wider social innovation.

An essential and continuous element throughout all these phases is the training and professional development of ABF’s educators and staff. Through both in-person and online sessions, ABF promotes dialogue among professionals from different regions, fostering a national network that facilitates the transfer of knowledge and mutual growth.

Educational Projects Promoted by ABF

ABF Digital Lab was created to encourage interactive and inclusive learning environments through new technologies, the Digital Lab helps every child discover and enhance their talents.
It operates partly in pediatric hospitals within the AOPI (Italian Pediatric Hospitals Association) network—supported by hospital schools—and partly in schools rebuilt by the Foundation following the 2016 earthquake in Central Italy.

Key features include the Digital Atelierista: a professional educator who supports teachers and students in using ABF-provided digital resources. The project also includes the ABF TeachBus—a mobile digital library equipped with tablets, laptops for remote learning, virtual reality headsets, and the ABF Educational platform, which gives access to a wide range of educational content.

ABF Voices of
This program places the social choir at its heart, using music as a powerful tool for self-expression and community-building. By establishing regional choirs in underserved areas around the world, the initiative empowers children and young people, helping them nurture their talent and create positive ripple effects within their communities.

ABF Globalab
A reference point for young people aged 16 to 25, Globalab provides tools and guidance for personal growth, skills development, and career planning.
Thanks to the redevelopment of a new wing of the San Firenze complex—now ABF’s headquarters—Globalab has evolved from a simple initiative into a vibrant hub that welcomes young people, educators, and cultural professionals for daily engagement and empowerment.