Life Skills Education: The Spanish School Teaching Teens to Be Self-Reliant and Gender-Equal

In Vigo, a city nestled in Spain’s northwestern Galicia region, one school has taken a bold step to redefine education. At Montecastelo School, students don’t just learn algebra or history — they’re also taught how to iron a shirt, cook a meal, and manage household tasks. This innovative approach to life skills education is preparing teenagers for real life while dismantling outdated gender roles.

1. Teaching teens how to live, not just study

a. A hands-on program that starts with the basics

The program, known as Home Skills, teaches students how to:

• Iron clothing efficiently,
• Cook basic, healthy meals,
• Sew buttons and fix small tears,
• Operate common household appliances like washing machines and dishwashers.

These workshops are practical, engaging, and designed to mirror everyday life. “Before this, I didn’t know how to fold laundry properly — now I do it at home,” says Javier, a 15-year-old student.

b. Preparing teens for independence

Many young people leave home without knowing how to care for themselves or their space. By integrating life skills education into their curriculum, Montecastelo ensures students are better equipped for adulthood — not just academically, but practically.

2. Challenging gender stereotypes with education

a. Why boys need to learn domestic skills too

Montecastelo has traditionally been a boys-only school, making its program even more groundbreaking. Teaching young men to perform domestic chores sends a powerful message: these tasks are not “women’s work” — they’re essential life skills for everyone.

b. What parents are saying

FAQs:

• Is this common in Spain?
  Not yet. This is a school-specific initiative, but it’s gaining attention.
• Do girls participate too?
  Montecastelo’s classes are currently for boys, but the model is applicable to co-ed schools.
• How do parents react?
  “My son started cooking dinner once a week after these classes. It’s fantastic,” one parent shared.

c. Promoting respect and equality

By normalizing shared domestic responsibilities, the program encourages respect, balance, and cooperation at home. It’s a small change with long-term cultural impact.

3. Can this life skills education model work elsewhere?

a. A pilot worth replicating

Although still limited to one school, Montecastelo’s Home Skills program is inspiring educators beyond Spain. With rising interest from parents and policymakers alike, similar initiatives may soon appear in other countries.

b. Why schools should teach practical life skills

Subjects like math and science are crucial — but so is the ability to manage a household. Adding life skills education to school programs builds well-rounded, capable adults who are ready to live independently and respectfully in any context.

Montecastelo School is showing that folding laundry and cracking an egg can be just as valuable as passing an exam. Isn’t it time all schools caught up?

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