The Italian school system

Like in many other countries, children in Italy between 6 and 16 are obligated to attend school - this concept is called scuola dell'obbligo (compulsory education). In the following, you will be led through the Italian education system step by step.

1) Scuola primaria (Primary school): Children are given a basic education in Italian, mathematics, natural sciences, history, geography, social studies, physical education and visual and musical arts. A few years ago even English and Computer Science were added to the curriculum while religion classes remain optional. This school is attended by 6 to 11 year olds and thus lasts five years.

2) Scuola secondaria (Secondary school): In Italy, secondary education is divided into two phases and lasts eight years in total. Scuola secondaria di primo grado (Lower secondary school), also broadly known as Scuola media, which corresponds to the Middle School grades, and Scuola secondaria di secondo grado (Upper secondary school), also called Scuola superiore or less formally Le Superiori, which is comparable to the high-school level.

2. 1) Scuola secondaria di primo grado: This school is to be attended right after primary school and lasts three years (from age 11 to 14). Students deepen their knowledge of the subjects introduced in primary school and at the end of it take the esame di terza media (middle school exam).

2. 2) Scuola secondaria di secondo grado: There are three types of the Scuola Superiore: Liceo, Istituto tecnico and Istituto professionale.

-> The Liceo offers a more theoretical education especially for those intending to go to University afterwards. Depending on the subjects studied, there are diffferent types:

• Classico (Latin, Greek, Italian)

• Scientifico (mathematics, Physics and Science)

• Linguistico (English and other foreign languages)

• Tecnologico (Computer Science)

• Artistico (art)

• Musicale (music)

-> The Istituto tecnico and professionale has students acquire practical and technical skills. Example sectors are:

• Economy

• Tourism

• Technology

• Agricolture

• Healthcare professions

3) ITF (Vocational education and training): The ITF focuses on a more practical skillset and can open the doors to jobs like:

• Plumber

• Electrician

• Hairdresser

• Beautician

At the end of High School every student must take the esame di maturità (graduation exam) which consists of three written and one oral test. Passing it allows you to continue your studies at University.