Our philosophy of education is based on a transdisciplinary, inquiry based approach. Children investigate themes of global significance, posing open questions and using evidence-based reasoning and creative problem-solving to reach their own conclusions. They are encouraged to move beyond general curiosity into the realms of critical thinking and understanding.

The Reggio Emilia Approach permeates our Early Years classes.

The keystone of the approach is the image of children and teachers as capable, resourceful researchers, interested in inquiring seriously into the world around them. Such thoughtful engagement includes working through theories, thoughts, feelings and values in multiple modes of representation, such as drawing, dance, wire, clay, music, painting, light and shadow, design and building, and so forth. It includes the teacher research of pedagogical documentation in which teachers inquire into children’s thinking and understanding, invite children to revisit documentation, and study documentation in order to propel curriculum further. It includes the notion of children as full participants in their society, and creators of culture for others to study and enjoy.

In the Reggio Emilia Approach the classroom plays an essential role and is seen as the third teacher. This means that the classroom should be an inviting space in which the children feel comfortable to explore and investigate and to wander and wonder about their units of inquiry. It is important they feel safe within the space to share their ideas and discover possibilities.

International Baccalaureate® (IB)*

Acquired in 2020, GIS The International School of Monza was conceived to be a school of the IB community and has received the official certification in February 2022.

The IB’s programmes are different from other curricula because they:

• encourage students of all ages to think critically and challenge assumptions
• develop independently of government and national systems, incorporating quality practice from research and our global community of schools
• encourage students of all ages to consider both local and global contexts
• develop multilingual students.

IB Learner Profile

The IB learner profile is the IB mission statement translated into a set of learning outcomes. It is a set of ideals that we use as inspiration, motivation and focus for our teaching and work in general.

INQUIRERS: They develop their natural curiosity. They acquire the skills necessary to conduct inquiry and research and show independence in learning. They actively enjoy learning and this love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives.

KNOWLEDGEABLE: They explore concepts, ideas and issues that have local and global significance. In so doing, they acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines.

THINKERS: They exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to recognize and approach complex problems, and make reasoned, ethical decisions.

COMMUNICATORS: They understand and express ideas and information confidently and creatively in more than one language and in a variety of modes of communication. They work effectively and willingly in collaboration with others.

PRINCIPLED: They act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness, justice and respect for the dignity of the individual, groups and communities. They take responsibility for their own actions and the consequences that accompany them.

OPEN-MINDED: They understand and appreciate their own cultures and personal histories, and are open to the perspectives, values and traditions of other individuals and communities. They are accustomed to seeking and evaluating a range of points of view, and are willing to grow from the experience.

CARING: They show empathy, compassion and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a personal commitment to service, and act to make a positive difference to the lives of others and to the environment.

RISK-TAKERS: They approach unfamiliar situations and uncertainty with courage and forethought, and have the independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies. They are brave and articulate in defending their beliefs.

BALANCED: They understand the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance to achieve personal well-being for themselves and others.

REFLECTIVE: They give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and experience. They are able to assess and understand their strengths and limitations in order to support their learning and personal development.