In 2015 the association will initiate a forum for key industry players including member and non-member schools, businesses, universities and public institutions to form the national strategy, something that national committee Study in Spain has not recently addressed.

FEDELE is also currently in the process of formalising its partner agency scheme to increase trust and communication levels between its 87 member schools and future partner agencies, while its social media sites are being translated into English to allow a greater reach.

“The development of the sector from the private schools perspective has arrived to a point of maturity that needs to be supported by a national strategy”

“FEDELE thinks that the development of the sector from the private schools perspective has arrived to a point of maturity that needs to be supported by a national strategy that involves all the key players in the industry, not just the private sector,” Director of FEDELE, Ana Cózar, told The PIE News.

“At this point, we think it’s for the benefit of our schools to promote the development of this strategy, so we will actively encourage Spanish institutions to work together with the private sector in developing a strategic plan,” she added.

While 2013 was a sluggish year for FEDELE members,  Cózar confirmed that the summer period saw an increase in students and student weeks.

“The overall conclusion was the good health of the industry at the moment and positive perspectives for the future,” said Cózar.

There has also been a surge in interest from Russia, which was reflected in the high Russian agent numbers at the conference, as well as China, Switzerland, Austria and the Nordic countries.

As well hearing insights on local and national strategies at the conference, the 130 delegates from 90 different businesses also attended working groups on the importance of market intelligence, accreditation and ethical and professional codes for FEDELE members.