Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Florence

Florence, is a city that, while not as large as metropolises like London or New York, still offers a variety of educational options for expat families and digital nomads. There are several international and bilingual schools in and around Florence that cater to the needs of expat children, providing them with a high-quality education and helping them to integrate into their new environment. Among the most popular ones are the International School of Florence and the Canadian School of Florence, both known for their excellent curricula and diverse student bodies.

International School of Florence (ISF)

Grades: Pre-School through Grade 12
Location(s): Villa le Tavernule (Pre-School to Grade 5), Villa Torri di Gattaia (Grades 6 to 12)
Website: www.isfitaly.org

The International School of Florence, founded in 1952, is one of the oldest international schools in Europe. It offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program for students from pre-school through grade 12. With a campus nestled in the Tuscan hills and another in a historic villa, ISF provides state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, art studios, and sports fields. The school boasts a diverse student body representing over 50 nationalities and provides a wide range of extracurricular activities to enhance the educational experience.

Canadian School of Florence (CSF)

Grades: Pre-School through Grade 12
Location(s): Via del Carota, Bagno a Ripoli
Website: www.canadianschool.it

The Canadian School of Florence offers a bilingual curriculum in English and Italian, following the Canadian educational system while integrating elements of Italian culture and language. The school is located in the scenic area of Bagno a Ripoli, just a short drive from Florence's city center. CSF prides itself on its small class sizes, personalized learning approaches, and a wide array of extracurricular activities, including music, art, and sports programs. The school's modern facilities and international environment make it an attractive choice for expat families.

International Bilingual School of Florence (IBSF)

Grades: Nursery through Grade 8
Location(s): Via del Carota, Bagno a Ripoli
Website: www.ibschoolflorence.com

Located in the same picturesque area as the Canadian School, the International Bilingual School of Florence offers a bilingual education in English and Italian. The school follows the Cambridge International Curriculum, ensuring a global standard of education. IBSF is known for its nurturing environment, with a focus on individual student growth and development. The school's facilities support a variety of learning experiences, including a library, computer lab, and dedicated art and music rooms.

Florence International School (FIS)

Grades: Pre-School through Grade 8
Location(s): Via San Gallo
Website: www.florenceinternationalschool.com

Florence International School is a private school that offers an English-language education with a strong emphasis on Italian language and culture. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and creativity, preparing students for a globalized world. FIS provides a warm and inclusive environment, with a range of extracurricular activities that include sports, arts, and technology clubs. The school's central location in Florence makes it easily accessible for families living in the city.

Convitto Nazionale "Vittorio Emanuele II"

Grades: Elementary through High School
Location(s): Piazza del Convitto

Convitto Nazionale "Vittorio Emanuele II" is a prestigious public boarding school that also accepts day students. While not exclusively an international school, it offers a bilingual section where students can study subjects in both Italian and English. The school is known for its rigorous academic standards and its historic setting in the heart of Florence. It provides a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves in Italian culture and language while receiving a quality education that prepares them for university studies in Italy or abroad.

Scuola Leonardo da Vinci

Grades: Various language courses
Location(s): Via Bufalini
Website: www.scuolaleonardo.com

While not a traditional school offering grades, Scuola Leonardo da Vinci is an excellent resource for expat kids and teenagers looking to improve their Italian language skills. The school offers a variety of Italian language courses, including intensive programs and summer camps, which can be particularly beneficial for newly arrived expat children. The school's central location in Florence and its reputation for high-quality instruction make it a popular choice for international families seeking to support their children's language acquisition.