Choosing a Kindergarten in Florence, Italy, marks the beginning of your child’s educational adventure. At the International School of Florence (ISF), founded in 1952, we cultivate a stimulating environment where every child feels valued. Our Early Years programme includes two years of mixed-age Early Years (ages 3-5) and a third year of Foundation (ages 5-6) blending academic excellence with emotional support.
Why Choose the International School of Florence for Kindergarten in Florence, Italy
Choosing a Preschool and Kindergarten in Florence, Italy, marks the beginning of your child’s educational adventure. At the International School of Florence (ISF), founded in 1952, we cultivate a stimulating environment where every child feels valued. Our Early Years programme includes two years of mixed-age Early Years (ages 3-5) and a third year of Foundation (ages 5-6) blending academic excellence with emotional support.
- Bilingual Foundation: children interact in both English and Italian daily.
- Inquiry-Based Methodology: we implement the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP).
- Outdoor Learning: students explore the historic garden of Villa le Tavernule and the olive grove every day.
- Intimate Learning Groups: small class sizes ensure personalized attention from a lead teacher and a bilingual assistant.
What is the IB Early Years Programme at the International School of Florence?
The Early Years Primary Years Programme (PYP) transforms the classroom into a laboratory of ideas. Instead of following a rigid syllabus, children explore “Units of Inquiry”. They investigate themes like “Me and my Body” or “Sharing the planet.” This framework encourages students to ask bold questions and seek answers through hands-on activities and outdoor learning.
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Daily schedule and Routine at the International School of Florence Preschool & Kindergarten
A predictable routine provides the security children need to take risks. The day begins at 08:30 and ends at 15:30 (14:45 on Tuesdays).
- Morning Discovery: children participate in “Inquiry Time”, focusing on early literacy and numeracy through play.
- Outdoor Exploration: students spend significant time in the gardens, regardless of the season.
- Nutritious Lunch: the school provides a healthy, Mediterranean-style meal in our dining hall.
- Specialist Sessions: the schedule includes Music, Physical Education, Italian, ICT, Art and Library taught by subject experts.
- After-School Care: for working families, our After School activities extend the day until 16:30.
Inside the International School of Florence’s Campus: spaces and facilities
Our Junior School Campus is located at Villa le Tavernule in Bagno a Ripoli, just 15 minutes from the Florence city center. This Renaissance villa offers a unique setting where history meets modern pedagogy.
- Learning Spaces: bright classrooms, a dedicated Art Studio, and a multilingual Library.
- Outdoor Spaces: extensive gardens, olive groves, and a sports field.
How Italian language support works for international families
We understand that moving to Italy involves language concerns for US and expat families. At International School of Florence, we do not require any prior knowledge of Italian. In the Early Years, children acquire the language naturally. Bilingual assistants model Italian during play, snack times, and transition periods. In the Foundation classroom, an Italian language dedicated lesson is integrated in the programme.
Inquire nowHow to apply: Early Years Admissions at ISF Florence
Our admissions process is designed to be transparent and welcoming.
- Entry Requirements: Children can join our Early Years programme from age 3 to 6.
- Documentation: Parents must submit previous school reports (if applicable), 1 or 2 reference letters and pay the non-refundable application fee.
- Deadlines: We recommend applying by January for the following September, although we evaluate mid-year applications based on availability.
Transition to Primary School
The journey doesn’t end in Kindergarten. After the Early Years, children continue to the International School of Florence’s Elementary programme called the Primary Years Programme (PYP), moving seamlessly into Grade 1. You can learn more about the next steps on our Primary Years page.
Primary Years