If you are an international family in Italy or planning to relocate, this article helps you navigate the various school options: local schools, Italian schools with strong English programs, bilingual schools, and international schools: local school, Italian school with powerful english, bilingual school and international one.
When choosing a school, consider these factors:
- Distance from home (even 2km can take 30 minutes by car)
- Cost
- Benefit for the bilingualism or multilingualism
- Academic program
- Your children’s talents
- School facilities
As a bilingualism consultant, I emphasize the importance of bilingualism, but remember, the best choice is what works more for your family. If possible, visit the school in person or contact them.
Types of Schools: school choice in Italy
- International Schools: These schools offer up to 6 hours of Italian per week and provide certification for English as a first language, which is beneficial if you plan to move outside Italy.
- Bilingual Schools: The weekly program includes 20 hours in English and 20 in Italian, with certification in both languages as first languages.
- Italian with Enhanced English: These schools offer fewer than 10 hours per week of English per week, and provide certification for English as a second language. If you plan to move abroad, your children may need to pass an English test.
- Local Schools: Enrollment is only open in February and must be done online. English instruction begins at age 6, with 1-2 hours per week, except for schools with the CLIL project, which offers 4 hours per week.
Finding the Best Fit for Your Family
English-Speaking Families:If you can homeschool for English, many online resources can help. Starting with the Jolly Phonics method at age of three can guide you in homeschooling during primary school. This approach can save money and be a rewarding experience, but if your children need to attend an English-speaking school later, they’ll need to pass an English test.
Non-English Speaking Families: If you plan to raise a multilingual family, focus on reading and writing in all languages when your children turn six. Bilingual or international schools can help manage the e English component.
Budget Considerations: school choice in Italy
International and bilingual schools can be expensive. If you plan to move abroad or want your children to study abroad, these schools are crucial, especially if English is not your native language. Consider how confident you want your children to be in Italian, and how long you plan to stay in Italy.
Conclusion
Choosing the right school can be challenging, but I hope this clarifies the options in Italy. For more tips and updates, follow me on social media.