Living the GOOD LIFE for the REST OF YOUR LIFE!
ATTENDING SCHOOL
IN ITALY!
Obtaining an education is as important to Italians as it is to natives of any western country. It is mandatory, and considered a vital step toward maturity.
The education levels in Italy are known as:
scuola materna (three to five years old)
scuola primaria (six to ten years old)
scuola media (eleven to fourteen years old)
scuola superiore, liceo (from age fourteen
onwards)
The state schools in Italy are free, and compulsory until the age of 16, and all public schools are taught in Italian. The Italian school year usually runs from mid-September to the end of June.
Italy recognizes that many families have both parents working outside the home, and provide for younger children through “comune” childcare centers. Childminders and playgroups are also used by working parents.
“Asile nido” are “comune” run nurseries for children aged three months to three years. A place for your child in the nursery is not guaranteed, so advance planning is necessary. The cost is a sliding scale based on your household income.
“Asile nido” have an excellent reputation in Italy and are often of a higher standard than private nurseries. The meals are planned by a dietician and are renowned.
Enrollment of Children in an Italian School:
Under Italian law, Italian schools have to accept all children under the age of 18 even if the necessary documents have not all been provided. In this instance the enrollment is "a temporary enrollment", until the parents or guardian have been able to produce the necessary documentation. During this time they have to produce a written proof of intention to substitute the missing documents.
Necessary Documents for Enrollment are:
Birth certificate (translated)
Residence Permit (Permesso di Soggiorno)
for the parent/guardian and child
Proof of immunization for polio, diphtheria,
tetanus and hepatitis B
Proof of identity
Passport photos
Family Status Certificate (Stato di
Famiglia), which can be obtained from the
local registry office (anagrafe) if the
person is a resident, or if application has
been made for residency
Translation of the home country's school
curriculum to enable the school to
properly place the child in class
Registration can be done at the school or at the school registry office (anagrafe scuole statali).
Numerous private schools taught in a variety of languages are also throughout Italy. It is suggested, though, that if you have young children, and are considering a long stay in Italy, that your child be placed in a local school with local children. Assimilation will be to the child’s advantage.