Alfonso Filippone

Alfonso Filippone is a multi-award-winning Italian educator, researcher and innovator whose work is transforming teaching, inclusion and digital learning in some of Southern Italy’s most challenging communities. Recognised nationally for his pioneering methodologies, he was honoured in 2025 with both the Premio 10 e Lode for the best innovative teaching approach and the Atlante Italian Teacher Award, celebrating him as one of Italy’s most outstanding teachers. His scientific and pedagogical research has twice earned the prestigious REN Reward (2024 and 2025) for the best international contribution in the fields of pedagogy, neuroscience and innovative didactics.

A certified mathematics, science and English teacher, as well as a specialist in inclusion and disability support, Alfonso has built an exceptional academic profile. He holds two Master’s degrees, multiple post-graduate specialisations, a PhD in Agri-food Innovation and is completing a second PhD in Digital Transformation in Education. His research has produced numerous peer-reviewed scientific publications on virtual worlds, innovative methodologies, STEAM education, sensory evaluation, autobiographical storytelling and inclusive learning ecosystems. His 2025 edited volume Benessere, Felicità e Inclusione consolidates his contribution to the field of educational well-being.

Working in a suburban school with high levels of social vulnerability, Alfonso has turned a disadvantaged context into a laboratory of educational innovation. He created Generative Pedagogy, a relational and talent-centred approach that inspires motivation, resilience and lifelong learning. He developed the Eduverso Didattico, a 3D immersive learning ecosystem using virtual worlds, educational escape rooms, augmented learning and AI-supported environments. These innovations have demonstrably improved results: Cambridge A2/B1 pass rates rose from 41% to 73%, science and mathematics performance increased by 27%, teamwork and problem-solving by 46%, and unexcused absences fell by 38%. Participation of SEN and disabled students grew dramatically, achieving 100% engagement in project-based activities.

His projects extend beyond the classroom: Alfonso has led award-winning national initiatives, including the Digital School Award 2021, and secured WWF Italy’s Nature Classroom for his school, promoting sustainability education and outdoor learning. He coordinates daily free afternoon programs — Cambridge English, LEGO robotics, STEAM labs, math competitions and digital tutoring — ensuring opportunities for students who would otherwise lack access.

A respected university professor, Alfonso trains future teachers in inclusive methodologies, digital pedagogy and educational neuroscience. His work is influencing national practice through PNRR teacher-training programmes, international conferences and collaborative networks. He is also initiating global citizenship projects, including Virtual Worlds Without Borders, connecting Italian students with peers across Europe in immersive 3D learning spaces.

If awarded international recognition, Alfonso plans to create Porto Sicuro – Learning Village, an inclusive educational centre in his school’s garden: an open, safe, free learning hub offering community education, lifelong learning, arts, technology and well-being programmes, replicable in other disadvantaged contexts.

Alfonso’s greatest achievement remains the transformative impact he has on students’ lives. In their daily smiles and renewed confidence, he sees the true evidence that education, when driven by heart and vision, can unlock human potential and change communities from within.