Disclaimer: “The information presented in this article is based on insights gathered from various social media groups, discussions, and testimonies shared by Brussels-baised colleagues. While we strive to provide accurate and relevant details, we are committed to preserving confidentiality and protecting the privacy of individuals involved.

The cases mentioned reflect concerns raised and are shared with the intent of raising awareness and fostering constructive dialogue on improving schooling options for those based in Brussels.

Introduction:

In previous articles, we have focused on the European Schools (ESS) system as a schooling option. However, we recognise that many colleagues may also consider other options such as state or private schools[*] for their children, and it is equally important to understand the challenges and realities that come with each choice.  In this article we would like to focus on the second of those options: private education, and shed light on some of the issues parents have encountered there, particularly the lack of oversight and the growing concerns about transparency in school-related discussions.  In short, many of these issues echo those raised by the European Parliament with regards to the EES: The European Schools system: State of Play, Challenges and Perspectives (June 2022). Our aim is to ensure that our colleagues are well-informed and supported when making decisions about their children’s education.

One of the most critical decisions for any family is choosing the right school for their children. However, the current system presents numerous challenges that many parents who have relocated to Brussels being unfamiliar with the system and unaware of pitfalls until they fall into them. As Generation 2004, we believe that EU staff should ensure that they are fully informed of the options available to them and be protected from unfair practices in the education sector.

Unregulated Private Schools: A Growing Concern

Unlike state schools, private schools in Belgium can operate without governmental oversight. This means:

• No standardised curriculum or mandatory protocols.
• No qualification requirements for teachers.
• No higher authority to report issues related to abuse, misconduct, or mistreatment.

For EU families, this lack of accountability creates a serious risk. When problems arise, parents are often left without institutional support, leading to difficult and costly legal battles.

Social Media Censorship: Silencing Parents’ Voices

Another alarming development is the increasing use of censorship in Facebook groups meant to help parents navigate the schooling system. Some of these groups, which have thousands of members, are actively deleting posts that criticise private schools. One such school pressures group administrators to remove negative reviews.

This censorship prevents parents from sharing their experiences and warning others about potential issues, making informed decision-making nearly impossible via this platform.

Real Cases, Real Consequences

Another case that came to our attention proved how serious these issues can be. A mother, who is an EU staff member, discovered that her child had been physically abused by a teacher. Despite immediately reporting the case to the school, she received no support. Eventually, she had to escalate the matter to the police with legal assistance from the European Commission. Meanwhile, the school director continued to downplay the severity of the situation. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. Many families have faced similar challenges, and without intervention, the problem will persist.

What Can Be Done?

1. Raise Awareness: EU institutions (most probably PMO or DG HR) to encourage staff to avoid known pitfalls and risks associated with private schools and to read all they can on the importance of oversight.
2. Promote Transparency: Encouraging open discussions in independent platforms rather than relying on redacted social media groups.
3. Demand Accountability: EU trade unions and staff associations such as Generation 2004 can help parents advocate for stronger regulations for private schools  and to  make use of the legal support available within the institutions where appropriate.
4. Provide information on escalating issues: Strengthening access to and knowledge  of thte available legal assistance.

Conclusion:

Education is a fundamental right, and all families deserve to feel safe and informed when choosing schools for their children.

Generation 2004 stands for transparency, fairness, and the protection of EU staff and their families.

Those of you who are interested in this topic, you can participate to our next lunch time conference on the 24 April 2025, where we will aim to bring into discussion several cases and to encourage the free discussions on the challenges in this area. Together, we can push for positive change and ensure that all children receive the safe and quality education they deserve.

As always, we would love to hear from you. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with us or leave a comment below.

If you appreciate our work, please consider becoming a member of Generation 2004.

[*] The United States and the UK are famously  two countries separated by a common language (George Bernard Shaw?)