We are not an academy — we are a university foundation

Our project is led by the Fundació Universitària Martí l’Humà, a non-profit foundation with over 20 years of experience in adult education. Being a foundation means we are socially driven: a part of our income is reinvested into programmes that support access to basic education and workforce inclusion for vulnerable groups. At the same time, we collaborate with top academic institutions, such as the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB) — one of Spain’s leading public universities, consistently ranked in the national top three; the University of Vic (UVic-UCC); the Central University of Catalonia, which enhances innovative and research-based education with social commitment, and which is very well positioned in the Spanish university system; and the Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC), our public university for research and higher education in the fields of architecture, engineering, science and technology. This blend of academic rigour and social commitment gives our work both quality and purpose.

We are not just trainers — we are leading educators

Our courses are delivered by professionals who are actively working in the educational field every single day. That’s why our sessions are scheduled in the afternoon: our trainers spend their mornings in schools, universities, or professional environments. Our team includes classroom teachers, school principals, educational inspectors, university lecturers, and experts from the private sector. They do not just teach theories — they share real challenges, best practices, and innovative solutions from their daily experience. This makes our training both practical and inspiring, with direct links to the realities of European schools and learning environments.

We don’t work in academies — we train where education actually happens

Many training providers choose commercial venues, polished classrooms and “neutral” learning spaces. We take a different approach: our courses are hosted at Jaume Balmes Institute, a real, functioning secondary school located in the very heart of Barcelona.

Founded in 1845 as the Provincial Institute of Barcelona, Jaume Balmes is the oldest secondary school still active in Catalonia. Its building is a remarkable example of rationalist architecture, inspired by the ideals of GATCPAC, a group of Catalan architects from the 1930s who promoted modern, socially focused design. This architectural style highlights functionality and simplicity, aligning perfectly with our educational philosophy.

Despite its long history, the school has never lost its vitality. It remains a living, breathing educational community, where hundreds of students and teachers interact every day.

By being physically immersed in this authentic setting, participants gain a first-hand understanding of Catalan education: its methodologies, challenges, and cultural values.

This unique environment fosters more genuine exchanges between trainers and participants, and between participants and local professionals, bridging theory and real-life practice in a meaningful way.

We are proudly Catalan — and we want you to feel it

We believe that understanding education also means understanding culture, identity and place. As proud Catalans, we want you to discover the real Catalonia — beyond stereotypes and mass tourism. Our cultural programme is designed to be immersive, genuine and human: you’ll explore local traditions, taste our cuisine, learn about our language, and connect with people who care deeply about their land and values. Whether it’s walking through historical neighbourhoods, sharing a meal with locals, or learning a few words of Catalan, you’ll leave not just with training — but with a personal connection to our culture.