Method, Autonomy, International Vision
At Benedetto XV International School, Lower Secondary School represents a key phase in our students’ educational journey. It is the three-year period during which they develop autonomy, self-awareness, and transversal skills, supported by a curriculum that combines the British National Curriculum with the guidelines of the Italian Ministry of Education. This balance between theory and practice, as well as between subject knowledge and life skills, is carefully maintained.
Learning through learning environment
Our lower secondary school adopts a cutting-edge organizational model: teaching through learning environments. Students do not remain in a single classroom but move between spaces dedicated to different subjects, each thoughtfully arranged to align with the content and teaching methods of the discipline. This approach:
Empowers students and fosters greater autonomy;
Stimulates curiosity and engagement through the variety of spaces;
Creates a setting more similar to real-world and work environments;
Encourages a more dynamic and constructive relationship with teachers.
Subjects of Study
The rich and comprehensive curriculum includes:
- English Language: Enhancement of language and literary skills, with preparation for the Cambridge First Certificate exam (FCE – B2).
- Italian Language: Deepening of reading, writing, text analysis, and argumentative writing skills according to the guidelines of the Ministry of Education (MIM).
- Mathematics: The program develops logic, problem-solving, calculation skills, and abstract reasoning, providing students with the competencies needed for international study pathways.
- Science: Theoretical lessons and practical labs to explore biology, chemistry, physics, technology, and the environment. In line with the STEM approach, students participate in classes and projects that combine science, technology, and engineering.
- History: Taught entirely in English, integrating the Oxford International Curriculum content with that of the MIM. Students learn to interpret historical events comparatively, critically, and globally.
- Geography: An interdisciplinary and active approach to understanding territories, environments, geographical phenomena, and social systems, in line with the national curriculum.
- French: Study of the second foreign language through conversation, vocabulary, and basic grammar.
- Art and Technology: Workshop-based activities to express creativity and develop manual and design skills.
- Music: Knowledge of musical language, active listening, practice with instruments, and choral activities.
- Physical Education and Sports: Two hours per week dedicated to movement, team games, and body care. Activities promote physical well-being, discipline, and sportsmanship.
- Wellbeing: An official subject of the Oxford International Curriculum, Wellbeing guides students in developing emotional intelligence, resilience, and self-awareness.
Through reflective and practical activities, students learn to manage emotions, relationships, and stress, and to build a positive vision of themselves and the world.
Interdisciplinary and Practical Projects
Project-based learning is at the heart of our school. Many activities are interdisciplinary and practical, born from the collaboration between teachers of different subjects. Students carry out research, exhibitions, documentaries, theatrical performances, and active citizenship activities. Group work, the use of technology, and the public presentation of projects foster initiative, autonomy, responsibility, and creativity.
Exams and Assessments
- At the end of each school year, students take a qualification exam at a recognized Italian school, which certifies their MIM pathway.
- At the end of the three-year program, they take the State Exam concluding the first cycle of education, as required by national regulations.
- During their studies, students can also obtain Cambridge ESOL certifications (PET and FCE), which are internationally recognized.
Certifications and Partnerships
