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Eco-XMas Challenge! 10 ideas to make your Christmas sustainable

No matter where you spend Christmas, there are things you can keep in mind to make it a time to reaffirm or start your commitment to sustainability. Will you join Plan Zero’s Eco-XMas Challenge? The holiday season is a time of joy, togetherness and generosity, but it can also be a time of overconsumption and waste. In a world where sustainability is increasingly crucial, it is essential to rethink our Christmas traditions in order to celebrate the holidays in a more conscious way, whether you are here or abroad. Here are 10 ideas for a more sustainable Christmas. Can you do them all? 🎁 1. Gifts with Purpose Choosing a gift can be a big challenge in itself, but don’t panic! Opt for meaningful and sustainable gifts. Prioritize experiences to live rather than just use, look for handmade items, local or second-hand products that mean a gift to the recipient, but also to the person who makes it and to the planet. And if you dare, make your own gifts! Nothing can beat something this special. 📦 2. Ecological packaging Did you know that shiny wrapping paper can’t be recycled? Try to make sure your gifts require as little packaging as possible, or at least recyclable. When it comes to wrapping, reuse wrapping paper you have on hand, use recycled materials, or find alternatives like tissues, old newspapers, magazines, or even decorated boxes that can be reused. Be imaginative! 🎅 3. Sustainable Decoration Most of us have a big cardboard box full of Christmas decorations that we keep from one year to the next. Nothing is more eco-friendly than traditional reuse! But if you need to incorporate something new or start this annual box from scratch, here are some ideas. Create Christmas decorations with natural and reusable elements: pine branches, pine cones, nuts; or you can also use recycled materials: cardboard, cardstock, thread, old clothes… let your imagination run wild, or take a look at Pinterest! You will enjoy decorations with a unique and sustainable touch, and also the time to make them. Extra tip: We know that glitter will blind you with its sparkling charm, but it is tiny microplastic particles that are seriously endangering the planet. Avoid it! 🎄 4. Eco-friendly Christmas tree Opt for a real Christmas tree as long as it can be replanted after the holidays. Otherwise, consider a high-quality artificial tree that can be reused for years to come. In addition to the classic plastic tree varieties, there are also other varieties made of wood, metal, or even fabric that can last a long time and become part of your Christmas tradition for a long time. 🏘️ 5. Be local Support local businesses by purchasing food and holiday products beyond gifts. Try to choose small businesses and brick-and-mortar stores instead of big box stores. You’ll reduce your carbon footprint while helping your community’s economy. 🥗 6. Sustainable Menus Plan Christmas meals with local and seasonal ingredients. Not only will they be healthier options, but local markets offer options with less unnecessary plastic and packaging. Also, did you know that opting for vegetarian or vegan options can be beneficial for both the environment and your health? Opting for a menu with less meat will be a win-win! And if there is something left over, don’t throw it away, the next day you can turn it into a new meal with a little love. Yes, you can make croquettes with anything 😉 🕯️ 7. Efficient Lighting Use energy-efficient LED lights for decoration. These lights use less energy and last longer, which reduces both electricity costs and environmental impact. And above all, don’t leave decorations on all night or when you’re not going to be home. 🗑️ 8. Waste Reduction Both with food and gifts. Avoid waste by planning the necessary quantities of food and storing leftovers appropriately. Also avoid over-gifting: quality is better than quantity. Think about whether what you are giving will have a long shelf life or if, on the contrary, it is something dispensable. ✊ 9. Gifts with a Cause: Consider giving to charities or causes in the name of your loved ones. You can support projects that promote sustainability, education, or environmental protection. 🙏 10. Reflection and Gratitude Remember the true spirit of Christmas: love, togetherness and gratitude. Take advantage of this time to reflect on the importance of caring for the planet, understanding the society in which we live and being thankful for what we have. It is also time to plan the new year. What are your new goals going to be? Do you have a plan? If you would like to discover the world and learn to be a #changemaker, at Plan Zero we can help you. As you’ve seen, the holiday season is an ideal time to adopt more sustainable practices and foster a positive impact on the world. How many do you think you can accomplish? Happy and sustainable holidays!

Transformative education

The Power of Multilingualism for Global Citizenship

What does multilingualism and travel have to do with global citizenship and wanting to change the world? You may be wondering, what does learning languages and travelling have to do with changing the world? Gugulethu Jemaine Nyathi, one of the winners of the “Many Languages, One World” essay contest and speaker at the Global Youth Forum, gives us a glimpse into the power of multilingualism. Their ideas and reflections have inspired us in our mission: To help young people discover and understand the world they live in through international, immersive, educational experiences and the promotion of a responsible lifestyle. For this reason, today we want to share some of them with you. Here we go! What role does multilingualism play? “From personal experience, I can attest to the changes in my character and attitude after mastering a new language and, consequently, learning more about a culture that I thought I already understood. The effort involved in learning languages and cultures by going deeper than what I had seen or been told has taught me not to take first impressions and deeply ingrained stereotypes seriously. I finally understood that no matter how difficult a task may seem, learning a new language is a process that, when completed, leaves an incredible mark on the learner. “I learned the largely unknown stories behind famous festivals, foods, and traditions. I discovered that every aspect of these cultures has deeper roots and holds meaning beyond beautiful performances, unique architecture, fun music, and mesmerizing dances. I finally came to understand why these cultures mean so much to so many people, and why we should all treat their diverse cultural legacies with the respect they deserve.” At Plan Zero we couldn’t agree more when he says: “When you take the time to truly understand another person’s culture, others will take the time to understand yours. And so, without even realizing it, you will have managed to create a positive impact of infinite reach.” Most of us are familiar with the concept of putting ourselves in someone else’s shoes or looking at a situation from another’s perspective. But in reality, putting this into practice can be difficult when we know and understand very little about the other person. If we could all take the initiative to learn and therefore understand languages and cultures we don’t know, we would make the world a much better place.” At Plan Zero we want to help young people in their process as part of global citizenship and #changemakers. For this reason, the voices of those young people who are changing the world always have their place here. We know that learning English is key, we have been hearing it since we were children. But, have you ever considered this way of understanding multilingualism? Changemakers, it’s time to travel, learn another language and change the world! Contact Plan Zero without obligation and start drawing up your plan.

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Why study a university degree in the United Kingdom?

Why studying a degree in the UK is always a good choice! The British tradition of welcoming students from all over the world is almost older than the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. What’s more, the variety of Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees is so wide that you’ll need more than one cup of tea to go through them all. There’s something for everyone! Despite the political changes, the UK remains the perfect place to study abroad. With destinations ranging from London, the city that never sleeps, to Edinburgh, where history and culture are like those friends who never miss a party on your study program. Even if you don’t choose them, they’ll be there to have fun! Plus, free thinking and creativity are encouraged in the UK, so get ready to come up with brilliant ideas over a delicious apple pie! 🎓Quality education in an educational system with international prestige Degrees obtained in the United Kingdom are highly recognized internationally because its universities maintain high standards of quality in teaching, learning and research. Not by chance, 4 of the 6 best universities in the world are located in the United Kingdom. 💼 High job placement It’s inevitable, we study a degree with an eye to the future that awaits us after finishing it. In the UK, you are more likely to find a job than to find a fish & chip stand on every corner. What is unemployment? They don’t know about it. Did you know that in the UK the employment rate after finishing studies exceeds 90% in most degrees and 86% of graduates start working within 6 months of graduating? Wow! ✍️ Flexibility to study and work (if you want) If you want to work during your studies, you can do that too. The university’s educational system and timetables make it easy for you. A student visa allows you to work part-time, and if you want, you’ll easily find work thanks to your university’s Student Assistance department, which will provide you with the necessary guidance. (Yes, your university, we’ll see you there!) Of course, at Plan Zero we’ll take care of processing your visa so that everything is ready. 🙂 100% student satisfaction The United Kingdom has the highest-rated model in terms of satisfaction among international students, not only for its educational quality but also for the social, artistic and cultural environment it provides its students. Its educational dropout rate is the lowest in Europe! 🏡 Guaranteed accommodation And don’t worry about finding accommodation. British universities are like your grandparents who insist you stay overnight. You’re guaranteed a bed for your first year! If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live in a Harry Potter room… you’ll have to go visit a college because the halls of residence are modern and comfortable. 😉 👌 100% admission chances However, if you want to study a university degree in the United Kingdom, there are many things to take into account. Many really prepared profiles fail because they do not know how to deal with bureaucracy or simply because they forget a paper, a date or do not know all the options available according to their needs. At Plan Zero we are UCAS Agents (University & College Admissions Service), that is, we have been agents of the admissions service of British universities since 2016. In addition, we have been helping students for years on their route to study abroad with a 100% admission rate. Our success lies in our fully personalized process. We guide each student to choose the universities they like the most and also those with the best options. Logical, right? In short, studying a university degree in the United Kingdom is like a walk through the land of tea, its wonderful traditions and British humor. Go ahead and be part of this academic experience with a very British touch! 🇬🇧 Shall we start your plan? Contact without obligation.

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The importance of academic guidance in choosing higher education

Informed decision for ESO and Bachillerato students The transition from Compulsory Secondary Education (ESO) and Bachillerato to higher education is a critical moment in the life of students. This choice will determine their academic and professional future, and it is essential that it is made with a deep understanding of their abilities and potential. In this article, we will explore why it is crucial for ESO and Bachillerato students to receive academic guidance in order to make informed decisions about their future, whether opting for Vocational Training or a university degree. 7 Keys to the Importance of Academic Guidance in Choosing Higher Education 1. Variety of Educational Options Today, students have access to a wide range of educational options, ranging from vocational training to university. Each of these options has its own characteristics, requirements and career prospects. Without proper guidance, students may feel overwhelmed by the variety of options and make hasty decisions that do not fit their interests and abilities. 2. Identifying Aptitudes and Passions Academic counseling provides students with the opportunity to explore their aptitudes and passions. Through skills tests, interest assessments, and conversations with counseling staff, students can discover their strengths and weaknesses, allowing them to make decisions more aligned with their personal and professional preferences. 3. Career Prospects Information Academic counseling not only focuses on educational options but also on the associated career prospects. Counseling can provide valuable insights into job opportunities, market demand, and career trends in different fields, helping students make decisions based on solid data. 4. Avoid Subsequent Career Changes An informed choice in higher education reduces the likelihood of students changing careers later in their academic or professional life. This saves time and resources, as career changes often involve losing credits and investing more time and money in education. 5. Maximize Academic Performance When students choose higher education aligned with their interests and abilities, they are more likely to feel the motivation and commitment needed for their education. This can lead to better academic performance and a more rewarding educational experience. 6. Reduction of Stress and Uncertainty Making important decisions without guidance can be stressful and create uncertainty. Academic guidance provides a structured framework that helps students make decisions with confidence and alleviates the stresses associated with choosing higher education. 7. Development of Decision-Making Skills Academic counseling is not just about getting answers, but about developing decision-making skills. Students learn to research, analyze information, and make responsible decisions—skills that will serve them throughout their lives. Conclusion Choosing higher education is a crucial stage in the lives of ESO and Bachillerato students. Appropriate academic guidance provides them with the necessary tools to make informed decisions aligned with their skills, interests and professional goals. By investing in academic guidance, educational institutions and families can help students build a solid and successful academic and professional future, whether through Vocational Training or university, thus ensuring their development and growth in society. Do you want to know more about our Academic Counseling and Guidance service? Contact us and let’s start planning your plan.

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Enrolment deadlines for studying a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree abroad (2024/25)

Aish! The rush. Are you thinking of studying a university degree or master’s degree abroad? Then don’t miss this list of registration deadlines so you don’t arrive late to any selection process. International universities do not follow the same enrolment deadlines as those in Spain. This means that many people miss out on the opportunity to choose the perfect university for their needs simply because they did not apply in a timely manner. How do we avoid this? By having a team that knows the enrolment deadlines of all universities. Easy peasy! 😉 Enrollment deadlines for studying abroad Each country has different application deadlines, and so does each university! Some highly prestigious universities also require an entrance exam, a personal statement or official English certifications, so preparing in advance is essential. Better in time than on time. But something that most students in Spain don’t take into account is that some universities have a second registration period, so if you think your chance has passed, don’t miss the following content, you might be surprised! Enrolment deadlines for studying in the United Kingdom Studying at a UK university is still a sure thing. Degrees obtained in this country are highly recognised internationally due to their high standards of educational quality. It is no wonder that 4 UK universities are among the top 6 in the world. Enrollment period: First call:January 31, 2024 for start in 2024, for most degree courses. Second call:June 30. The UCAS application process will reopen in April until the end of June. From this date, applications received will automatically move on to the “Clearing” process, at the beginning of September, through which universities and non-university higher education institutions fill any vacancies that are still available. Special call:October 16, 2023 for start in 2024. For courses at the universities of Oxford and Cambridge, and for courses in Medicine, Veterinary Medicine and Dentistry. Applicants should submit their applications as soon as possible. We recommend not leaving this process until the last minute. Start of course: The course starts in September.There is the possibility of starting in January and April for some degrees and masters. Enrolment deadlines for studying in the Netherlands Did you know that the Netherlands was the first non-English speaking country to offer university courses taught in English? The national language is Dutch, but the majority of its citizens also speak English. For this reason, and for its high educational quality, the Netherlands is a fantastic destination country to study a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree. Studying a degree in the Netherlands is easier than it seems thanks to the grants for European students offered by the Dutch government. But don’t let the enrolment deadlines to study abroad pass you by. Many of its university programmes have a selection process with requirements that take time to prepare, such as a motivation letter, specific entrance tests, a portfolio, an interview… Enrollment period: Ends May 1st. If it is a Numerus Fixus’ type of course (i.e. with a limited number of places available) the application deadline for all programmes is 15 January. Start of the course for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees: The course starts in September.There is the possibility of starting in January for some degrees and masters. Enrolment deadlines for studying in Denmark Danish universities offer programs entirely in English, developed on campuses with a marked international atmosphere, without losing the essence of Scandinavian culture. And what’s more, the Danish government subsidizes 100% of tuition fees for students from the European Union. Do you want to study a degree in Denmark? Denmark rocks! Enrollment period: From February 1st to March 15th. Start of the course for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees: Orientation & Introduction Days are usually at the end of August and classes start in early September. Enrolment deadlines for studying in Malta The Maltese education system was born at the same time as British-American pedagogy. Studying a degree in Malta means studying at internationally recognized institutions such as the University of Malta or Wolverhampton University. Its public university, one of the oldest in the world, has 100% subsidized tuition fees for European students. And its low cost of living makes it a very attractive destination. Do you dare to try its ftira bread, declared an intangible heritage by UNESCO? Enrollment period: Ends at the end of August. Start of the course for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees: Classes start at the beginning of October. Here are all the important dates of the University of Malta. Enrolment deadlines for studying in Germany We know it. Germany is one of the most popular destinations for international students. Germany is a relevant country for innovation, research, technology and education. That is why in recent years the population of foreign students has increased by 150%. Wow! Studying a degree in Germany will allow you to live a unique experience in the heart of Europe. You can choose between studying the degree in English or German, or learn this language if you don’t know it. And also… its system Study now. Pay later will allow you to study with 100% financing and not start paying until you finish your studies and have a job. What else do you need? Enrollment period: Ends August 31st. Start of the course for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees: Classes start at the beginning of October. Enrolment deadlines for studying in Hungary In 2006 Hungary adopted the Bologna Plan in university studies, so all degrees are recognized throughout the European Union, in the United States and thirty other countries. Furthermore, studying a degree in Hungary is a very affordable option. According to the Global Peace Index, Hungary is among the 20 safest countries in the world and living expenses are much more affordable in Hungary than in any other Western European country. Enrollment period: Ends August 31st. Health branch: The registration period ends on June 30th. To obtain a place in health studies you must register in the admission process and pass a test that includes questions on biology, chemistry and medical English. Additionally, you must complete an interview in English with the University faculty. Entrance exams: Check the dates for taking the exams at our offices. Start of the course for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees: Classes start at the beginning of September. Enrolment deadlines for studying in Sweden Studying a university degree in Sweden offers a unique educational experience that combines academic freedom, personal responsibility and quality education. In addition, university fees for any student from the European Union are free. And there is no application fee when you apply! Enrollment period: If you want to study a university degree in Sweden, these are the dates you should aim for: Admission probabilities If you want to study at a university abroad, the enrolment deadlines are just one of the things to keep in mind. Many really prepared profiles are left at the door due to not knowing how to deal with bureaucracy or simply because they forget a paper, a date or do not know all the options available according to their needs. At Plan Zero we have been helping students on their path to study abroad for years with a 100% admission rate. Our success lies in our fully personalized process. We guide each student to choose the universities they like the most and also those with the best options. Shall we start your plan? Contact without obligation.

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Exploring the Advantages of Studying a School Year in the United States

The idea of studying a school year abroad is an enriching experience that can change the life of any student. One of the most popular options for Spanish youth is to spend a year in the United States. But why the United States? The advantages are many, and many of them derive from the differences between the American and Spanish educational systems. Let’s see them! Exploring the Advantages of Studying a School Year in the United States: A Look at the Academic System and Its Differences with the Spanish Educational System 1. Cultural Diversity: One of the most notable aspects of the American education system is its cultural diversity. The United States is a melting pot of cultures, races and ethnicities, which is reflected in its schools. Studying a school year in the United States in this multicultural environment gives those who study the opportunity to interact with people from different backgrounds and perspectives. This fosters tolerance, intercultural understanding and open-mindedness, basic conditions for building global citizenship, so important in our time. 2. Flexibility of the Curriculum: Unlike the Spanish education system, the American system offers greater flexibility in choosing subjects. Students have the freedom to design their own curriculum, allowing them to explore their interests and talents more deeply. This flexibility can help students discover new passions and vocations. 3. Sports and Extracurricular Activities: The American education system places a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, art, and student clubs. This provides international students with a wide range of opportunities to develop skills outside the classroom and strengthen their social skills, while boosting their English naturally. 4. Promotion of Autonomy: In the United States, youth are encouraged in schools to develop their autonomy and take responsibility for their own learning. This allows them to develop organizational, time management and decision-making skills, which are valuable for their academic and professional future. 5. English Language Immersion: Studying a school year in the United States offers total immersion in English. This constant exposure to the language significantly improves students’ language skills, which we know is a valuable asset in an increasingly globalized world where English is the international language. 6. Networking Opportunities: You may not be thinking about this yet, but the American education system encourages networking from an early age. Young people have the opportunity to network with faculty, classmates, and professionals from various industries. These connections can be beneficial in the future, both in terms of higher education and in the workplace. 7. Encourage “Critical Thinking”: The American education system focuses on critical thinking and problem solving. They are encouraged to question, analyze, and find solutions to challenges, which prepares them to effectively deal with problems in their adult lives. 8. Access to Quality Educational Resources: The United States has a wide range of high-quality educational resources, such as libraries, research laboratories, and advanced technology in its schools. These resources enrich the educational experience and give those who choose to study a school year in the United States access to tools that can help them excel in their studies. Studying a school year in the United States: a unique opportunity In summary, Studying a school year in the United States is a unique opportunity to grow academically, culturally, and personally. Differences in the educational system, such as the flexibility of the curriculum and immersion in English, provide significant advantages by encouraging the development of skills complementary to those acquired in our system. In addition, the experience of living in a multicultural and diverse society offers them a broader perspective of the global world in which we live. And it should also be noted that this experience will leave them with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Did you think it was just because of English? Contact our team and let’s start creating a personalized plan.

Transformative education

What is global citizenship and why is it important?

There has been a lot of talk lately about global citizenship, but have you ever thought about what it is and why it is so important? For Plan Zero, it is a fundamental concept when it comes to developing educational paths and it perfectly defines what we call #Changemakers. For this reason, we want to share this text with you, taken and adapted from What is Global Citizenship and Why is it Important? Do you remember when you were in high school and had the chance to participate in a language exchange program, and instead you spent the week riding your bike along the paths in your neighborhood and playing video games? You may not have been able to enjoy that experience due to lack of resources or interest, but when your classmates came back, it seemed like they had learned more than just a language. They had learned a new way of living, acting, and being. Why were these cultural experiences so important? And what might have been the beginnings of a Global Citizenship education? The lessons learned by traveling abroad, immersing oneself in other cultures, trying to communicate and adapt within a new group of people represent steps and efforts toward nothing less than a life change: learning a new set of skills, a new ability to adapt to unfamiliar situations, and even questioning one’s own reality. This is the beginning of cultural awareness. that forms global citizens. The aim of Global Citizenship is none other than “to foster respect for all people, create a sense of belonging to a common humanity and help students become responsible and active citizens of the world.” UN In her essay “Global Citizenship: What Are We Talking About and Why Does It Matter?” Dr. Madeleine F. Green writes: “National citizenship is a coincidence of birth; global citizenship is different. It is a voluntary decision.” What does it mean to be a Global Citizen? And yes, learning about other cultures from a distance is an excellent recipe for becoming Global Citizens, but we can go one step further. Really immersing ourselves in new experiences, languages, traditions and cultures from other parts of the world is what will really help us achieve this. And so the big question is, how do you access opportunities that promote this learning and lead to this lifestyle? In many conversations like this, the word “travel” seems to be repeated as the key answer, and we’re not surprised. Global Citizenship gives us the opportunity to explore different experiences, ideologies and cultures while recognizing the uniqueness and beauty of our own culture. Simply put, if you want to gain a new perspective, you have to experience something from a different point of view, stepping outside your usual environment to perceive the world differently. Why is it important to be a global citizen? According to UNESCO, Global Citizenship “aims to instill in students the values, attitudes and behaviours that underpin responsible global citizenship: creativity, innovation and commitment to peace, human rights and sustainable development.” And so, little by little, we begin to understand and recognize our place in the world around us. For example, by identifying our privileges, understanding our experiences, and being aware of how our actions can affect world events. In this way, we gradually transform ourselves into Global Citizens. Being a Global Citizen is very powerful, because a globally-minded person takes political, social, environmental and economic actions that will impact communities on a global scale. Therefore, when you are a Global Citizen, you live with the determination to contribute to the collective concerns of the world, such as climate change and racism. Ready to commit to this challenge for your growth? Global citizenship is a way of life, a process of thinking from a global perspective, but also a tool to gain more freedom. Others believe it is the fullest way to live: the openness to embrace what the world has to offer, and the willingness to sacrifice to protect it. At Plan Zero we create educational experiences abroad that seek to align studies with this way of seeing the world. Studying abroad is the path to a greater goal: becoming a #changemaker and being part of the changes that the planet and society need. Are you in? Contact us without obligation and we will help you find the perfect route for you.

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