Canadian School of Milan - Gioia Campus and The British American Pre-School and Bilingual European School (BAPS-BES) are both in Milan, about 2 km apart. Both schools offer Canadian programmes, and The British American Pre-School and Bilingual European School (BAPS-BES) also offers IB, Bespoke and British. Published annual fees are €11,700 - 15,500 at Canadian School of Milan - Gioia Campus and €12,420 - 17,530 at The British American Pre-School and Bilingual European School (BAPS-BES), which puts The British American Pre-School and Bilingual European School (BAPS-BES) roughly 10% higher. Canadian School of Milan - Gioia Campus takes pupils from 2 to 11, and The British American Pre-School and Bilingual European School (BAPS-BES) from 2 to 18.
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Canadian School of Milan - Gioia Campus
Milan, Italy
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Fees / year
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Fees / year €11,700 - 15,500 | Fees / year €12,420 - 17,530 |
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Age range
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Age range 2 - 11 years | Age range 2 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational | Type Co-educational |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum Canadian Curriculum | Curriculum IB (PYP), Bespoke Curriculum, British Curriculum, Canadian Curriculum |
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Pupils
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Pupils — | Pupils — |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size — | Typical class size 22 |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English, Italian, French | Instruction language English, Italian |
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Opened
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Opened 2004 | Opened 1999 |
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Bus service
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Bus service Yes | Bus service Yes |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location Two centrally located Milan campuses: Gioia Campus, Via M. Gioia 42, 20124 Milano (Early Years & Primary), and Vivaio Campus, Via Vivaio 7, 20122 Milano (Middle & Senior School). The campuses are in central Milan with easy walking or cycling access to safe neighbourhoods. Gioia Campus serves ages 2–11; Vivaio Campus serves Grades 6–12 (roughly ages 11–18). | Location Milano, Italy. The British American Pre-School and the Bilingual European School share a campus in the northern part of Milan, with two addresses: Via Val Cismon 9, 20162 Milano and Via Resegone 1A, 20159 Milano. The Istria stop on the M5 metro is about a five-minute walk from the campus. |
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Stages
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Stages Early Years and Primary; Middle School; Senior School (ages 2–11; 11–14; 14–18). | Stages The school accommodates students from ages 2 to 18 across four main stages. These include Nursery and Preschool for ages 2 to 6, Primary School for ages 6 to 11, Middle School for ages 11 to 14, and High School for ages 14 to 18. |
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School type
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School type International IB World School offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. | School type This is a co-educational day school. It does not offer boarding facilities for any year groups. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix Representing over 35 nationalities. | Pupil nationality mix — |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support — | Additional learning support The school uses an inclusion model to support students with special educational needs through differentiated classroom instruction. Additionally, an in-house Child Study Team featuring a school counselor, psychologist, and play therapist is available to assist students with their individual learning and developmental requirements. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation — | Country affiliation The school does not have a formal affiliation with a specific country, operating as an independent bilingual school. |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation — | Religious affiliation The school does not have a religious affiliation. |
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School day structure
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School day structure Early Years & Primary run 8:00–15:30 with morning drop-off 8:00–8:45, circle time at 8:50, snack at 10:15, lunch at 11:45, rest/outdoor play at 13:00, learning at 14:00, end of day 15:30; Optional clubs 15:40–17:00. Middle & Senior School starts at 8:50 and finishes at 15:20; after-school activities may be available. | School day structure While specific daily timetables are not published, the standard school day is followed by an optional after-school program. |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details A bus service is available for students aged 3 and older, with a dedicated bus assistant. City Bus stops include Piazza Piemonte (pickup 7:30, drop-off 16:40), Piazza Conciliazione (7:35/16:31), Piazza 24 Maggio (7:45/16:21), Piazza Medaglie d'Oro (7:55/16:11), Piazza Tricolore (8:00/16:06), Via G. Modena/C. Menotti (8:02/16:04), Piazza Carlo Erba (8:06/16:00), Via Melchiorre Gioia 1 (8:16/15:50), Gioia Campus (8:20/15:45). Door-to-Door service via La Bussola; Inter-Campus Shuttle between Gioia and Vivaio for Grade 6-8 with siblings; fees apply. | Bus service details The school provides a bus service for students commuting from different areas of Milan. The buses stop at various designated pick-up points around the city. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Application fees - New student Admission Fee: EUR 2,600 (non‑refundable). - Admission Assessment (entry test): EUR 200 (non‑refundable; deducted from school fees if a place is offered). Tuition fees by year group (annual and per‑term breakdown using the school's published 3‑installment schedule: 40% / 30% / 30%) - Pre‑School (Nursery – Pre‑K) - Annual tuition (Private): EUR 11,700. Per‑term: 40% = EUR 4,680; 30% = EUR 3,510; 30% = EUR 3,510. - Annual tuition (Company): EUR 12,700. Per‑term: 40% = EUR 5,080; 30% = EUR 3,810; 30% = EUR 3,810. - Primary (Kindergarten – Grade 2) - Annual tuition (Private): EUR 12,900. Per‑term: 40% = EUR 5,160; 30% = EUR 3,870; 30% = EUR 3,870. - Annual tuition (Company): EUR 13,900. Per‑term: 40% = EUR 5,560; 30% = EUR 4,170; 30% = EUR 4,170. - Primary (Grade 3 – 5) - Annual tuition (Private): EUR 13,800. Per‑term: 40% = EUR 5,520; 30% = EUR 4,140; 30% = EUR 4,140. - Annual tuition (Company): EUR 14,800. Per‑term: 40% = EUR 5,920; 30% = EUR 4,440; 30% = EUR 4,440. - Upper School (IB MYP, Grades 6 – 8) - Annual tuition (Private): EUR 14,700. Per‑term: 40% = EUR 5,880; 30% = EUR 4,410; 30% = EUR 4,410. - Annual tuition (Company): EUR 15,700. Per‑term: 40% = EUR 6,280; 30% = EUR 4,710; 30% = EUR 4,710. - Upper School (Grades 9 – 10) - Annual tuition (Private): EUR 15,800. Per‑term: 40% = EUR 6,320; 30% = EUR 4,740; 30% = EUR 4,740. - Annual tuition (Company): EUR 16,800. Per‑term: 40% = EUR 6,720; 30% = EUR 5,040; 30% = EUR 5,040. - IB Diploma Programme (Grades 11 – 12) - Annual tuition (Private): EUR 17,900. Per‑term: 40% = EUR 7,160; 30% = EUR 5,370; 30% = EUR 5,370. - Annual tuition (Company): EUR 18,900. Per‑term: 40% = EUR 7,560; 30% = EUR 5,670; 30% = EUR 5,670. Billing schedule and payment terms - Standard schedule published: three instalments of 40% / 30% / 30%. The published document lists specific installment dates alongside these percentages. Families are required to pay the Admission Fee within 10 working days of accepting an offer to secure a place. Late entry after the academic year start requires payment of all fees and charges for the entire term in which the student is entering. Notice rules apply to withdrawals (see Refund & withdrawal section). Boarding fees (if applicable) - The school operates day campuses in central Milan (Gioia and Vivaio). No boarding fees are published. Other costs and optional fees - Admission Assessment: EUR 200 (non‑refundable; deducted from fees if a place is offered). - Lunches (hot meals): EUR 1,150 (published as an example cost). - IB Examination fee (Diploma Programme): EUR 1,000. - English Additional Language (EAL) support: level‑dependent; published range EUR 300 to EUR 1,500 per term. - Mandatory school trips: costed separately per trip and charged in addition to tuition. - Upper‑school textbooks and supplies: charged separately for relevant year groups. - Italian national exam fees (5° Elementare and 3° Media) where applicable: charged separately. - Co‑curricular activities and private music lessons: optional and charged separately. - Door‑to‑door transportation: optional service charged separately (route and price dependent). - School uniform: cost borne by families; uniform items are charged separately. Sibling discount - 10% reduction on the tuition fee for the second and each subsequent sibling attending the school at the same time. The discount applies to tuition only. Refund information & withdrawal / late‑entry terms - The Admission Fee (EUR 2,600) is non‑refundable. The Admission Assessment fee (EUR 200) is non‑refundable (but deducted from school fees if a place is offered). If a student enrols after the start of the school year, all fees and charges for the entire term in which they enter are payable. Withdrawal must be communicated in writing to the School Office by the first day of the previous term (example given: a child not returning in September must give notice no later than April 1). Specific refunds or pro‑rata arrangements for tuition are not detailed in the published fee document beyond these rules. Fee payment options - The published fee schedule document does not list specific payment methods (e.g., bank transfer, credit card) or account details; payment method information and invoicing are handled through the school's Finance/Admissions processes. Families are referred to the school's admissions/finance office for the accepted payment channels and invoicing instructions. Practical notes for budgeting - Total yearly cost for a new student equals the annual tuition for the relevant grade plus the non‑refundable Admission Fee (EUR 2,600) in the first year and any optional services selected (meals, transport, trips, EAL, music lessons, exam fees, uniform, etc.). The sibling discount (10%) applies to tuition for second and subsequent children attending simultaneously. | Fee details Application & admission fees - Pre-school (BAPS) one-time admission fee: EUR 1,350. - BES Primary one-time admission fee: EUR 2,500 (reduced to EUR 1,000 for students transferring from BAPS). - BES Middle one-time admission fee: EUR 2,500 (reduced to EUR 1,000 for students transferring from BES Primary). - BES High School one-time admission fee: EUR 2,500 (reduced to EUR 1,000 for students transferring from BES Middle). For students currently in Year 8 registering into Year 9 a special admission charge of EUR 1,000 is shown in the published fees example. Tuition fees by year group (annual amounts and annual registration fees) - Pre-school (annual tuition component and annual registration): - Toddlers (age 2): Tuition contribution EUR 10,920; Annual registration EUR 1,500; Total EUR 12,420. - Nursery (age 3): Tuition contribution EUR 11,430; Annual registration EUR 1,500; Total EUR 12,930. - Transition (age 4): Tuition contribution EUR 11,430; Annual registration EUR 1,500; Total EUR 12,930. - Reception (age 5): Tuition contribution EUR 11,540; Annual registration EUR 1,500; Total EUR 13,040. - Primary School (annual tuition contribution, annual registration and totals): - Year 1: Tuition contribution EUR 11,830; Annual registration EUR 1,600; Total EUR 13,430. - Year 2: Tuition contribution EUR 11,830; Annual registration EUR 1,600; Total EUR 13,430. - Year 3: Tuition contribution EUR 11,830; Annual registration EUR 1,600; Total EUR 13,430. - Year 4: Tuition contribution EUR 11,985; Annual registration EUR 1,600; Total EUR 13,585. - Year 5: Tuition contribution EUR 11,985; Annual registration EUR 1,600; Total EUR 13,585. - Middle School (annual tuition contribution, annual registration and totals): - Year 6: Tuition contribution EUR 13,130; Annual registration EUR 1,900; Total EUR 15,030. - Year 7: Tuition contribution EUR 13,130; Annual registration EUR 1,900; Total EUR 15,030. - Year 8: Tuition contribution EUR 13,130; Annual registration EUR 1,900; Total EUR 15,030. - High School (annual tuition contribution, annual registration and totals): - Year 9: Tuition contribution EUR 15,530; Annual registration EUR 2,000; Total EUR 17,530. - Year 10: Tuition contribution EUR 15,530; Annual registration EUR 2,000; Total EUR 17,530. - Year 11 and Year 12: No annual tuition/registration amounts are published in the main 2026/27 fee sheet (fields shown as blank). Other one-time and annual costs - Building fund (one-time): - Pre-school: EUR 600 (one-time). - Primary / Middle / High: EUR 1,650 (one-time); reduced rate EUR 950 for students transferring internally from BAPS or from the previous BES stage as indicated. - Refundable fee (one-time deposit): EUR 300. - School meals (Pasti): EUR 1,405 (annual). - Sibling discount: A 10% discount applies to the tuition contribution for the second and subsequent children concurrently attending the school. Discounts and special offers (as published in the fee document) - BES Ambassador Programme: a 30% reduction on the tuition contribution is published for eligible students (example shown for students currently in Year 8 admitted to Year 9). The published example shows the Ambassador discount at EUR 4,660 (30% of the Year 9 tuition contribution). Eligibility and application deadlines were specified in the published material for that promotional offer. - BES Loyalty discount (published example): a one-off discount of EUR 2,500 is shown for certain returning students (example applied to Year 9 in the published schedule). The Ambassador and Loyalty discounts are shown as cumulative where applicable. Billing schedule and payment terms - The published fees document lists the tuition contributions, annual registration fees and one-time charges but does not include a detailed billing schedule (for example precise invoice dates, term instalment dates or penalties for late payment are not shown in the public fee sheet). The fee document presents amounts as annual totals and one-time charges. Boarding fees - No boarding provision or boarding fees are listed in the published fee material; the school is presented as a day school covering pre-school through high school. No separate boarding charges appear in the fee schedule. Refund information - A refundable deposit (labelled "Refundable fee (una tantum)") of EUR 300 is listed as a one-time, refundable amount. The published fee sheet does not set out the detailed conditions or timing for return of that deposit on the face of the fee tables. Fee payment options - The published fee document sets out amounts and one-time charges but does not specify payment methods (for example bank transfer, credit/debit card acceptance, direct debit or online payment gateway) or the invoicing/payment channels in the fee tables. Payment methods and detailed payment instructions are not shown on the fee pages themselves. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements — |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement The school requires students to wear a school uniform. | Uniform requirement — |
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Food options
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Food options Hot lunches are cooked on-site in partnership with Pellegrini, with a rotating menu featuring a first course (pasta, risotto, or soup), a second course with lean proteins or plant-based options, plus a salad/fruit bar, vegetables, bread, and a light dessert. The program accommodates special dietary needs and preferences, including vegetarian and religious options, with snacks available for Nursery and Pre-K. | Food options Smart Food at BES: Meals are prepared by Soluzione Servizi. The kitchen follows the rhythms of the seasons, with fruits and vegetables always present and protein sources varied. Special meals are prepared for children with dietary restrictions. |
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House system
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House system — | House system — |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership The school is privately owned; it was founded in 2004 by Antonella Salvadori del Prato and is personally overseen by the founder. | Governance and ownership Paritarian Primary and Secondary School with Italian and native English-speaking teachers; Globeducate member. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details The Canadian School of Milan offers English-language instruction from Early Years through the IB Diploma Programme. The Primary School operates with instruction entirely in English within a Canadian-English and international education model. The Upper School follows the IB framework, with the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Grades 6–10 and the IB Diploma Programme (DP) for Grades 11–12. The Diploma Programme comprises six subjects and a core of Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS). The school operates on two Milan campuses: Gioia Campus (Early Years and Primary) and Vivaio Campus (Middle and Senior School). The school is an IB World School. | Curriculum details The BES bilingual programme offers education in English and Italian from early years to high school. The curriculum integrates the Italian Ministerial Programme (MIUR) with the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and is delivered in both languages; Primary and Middle School teaching is 50% Italian and 50% English. In Primary, the PYP uses six transdisciplinary themes to connect learning across subjects and to develop cross‑curricular skills; English language teaching comprises about 15 hours per week. In Secondary, the BES curriculum meets MIUR requirements with a 50/50 language split and focuses on interdisciplinary inquiry, arts, drama and technology; the Learner Profile and international outlook mirror the IB framework and include Project Work on Wednesdays. BES High School offers a four‑year bilingual Liceo Scientifico that combines Italian parity with the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), delivering a double diploma and 33 hours per week of teaching; optional online courses allow earning additional OSSD credits toward the Canadian diploma, enabling access to universities worldwide. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio Average class size is 18 students. Teaching Assistants support teachers in the Early Years and Primary School. | Student teacher ratio Maximum class size is normally 25 students. Classes are formed by a team including the headteacher, coordinators, and teachers. |
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Exam results
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Exam results In recent years, the Diploma Programme results have consistently exceeded the global average, with several students scoring above 40 and top achievers reaching 43 or 44 out of 45. IB results are released annually in July, and students can access their results by logging in with their Personal Code and PIN. | Exam results — |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression Some graduates have offers from Stanford University, University of Chicago, Imperial College London, University of Toronto, and NYU. | Higher education progression BES High School offers a four-year bilingual Liceo Scientifico that combines Italian parity with the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). The program runs 33 hours per week and enables earning OSSD credits, with some online courses available to gain additional credits. The Ontario Secondary School Diploma is a Canadian diploma recognized by universities worldwide, facilitating entry to higher education in Italy and internationally. |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented — | Gifted and talented — |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning Health and well-being are central to student life at the Canadian School of Milan. The school offers a dedicated counselling service with confidential one-to-one sessions and group workshops focused on motivation, personal development, and emotional resilience. Counseling supports students for stress, study pressures, low mood, friendship dynamics, or family concerns. The aim is to nurture a culture of openness, care, and proactive well-being, supported by a structured Personal & Social Education (PSED) curriculum. The campuses are staffed with qualified first aiders to ensure physical safety and immediate response when needed. | Social & emotional learning The BES recognises the importance of helping students manage their emotions and behaviours in a positive and constructive way. The 'Size of the problem' method is used as a socio-emotional learning (SEL) tool to help students assess the magnitude of their problems and respond appropriately. The method teaches students to adjust their emotional response to the severity of the situation, reducing overreactions and improving coping skills. It is integrated into daily classroom routines, counselling sessions and conflict-resolution strategies, using visual tools, role-playing and group discussions. The approach fosters emotional intelligence, self-regulation and a calm, supportive learning environment for students. Studies show SEL strategies like the 'Size of the problem' method can lead to long-term benefits, including improved academic performance, better mental health and stronger interpersonal relationships, with CASEL reporting an average 11% increase in academic achievement. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) Diversity and inclusion are central to the CSM experience. The school supports the wide range of identities and learning diversity that exist in its community. It aims to create a fair, equal, safe, and encouraging environment for all, regardless of race, religion, gender, ethnicity, or learning differences. CSM faculty, students, administrators, and staff fully embrace a vision of equity, diversity, and inclusion. All students are fully supported and comfortable at school, and the school aims to prepare them as much as possible for the future. | Special educational needs (SEN) The Child Study Team, composed of two psychologists and a psychomotricist, ensures that the student and family experience the transfer to BES as smoothly as possible. The team handles all steps related to school life and guides families to make the transition a positive experience. |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language Most teachers are native English speakers, supporting an English-language learning environment. Language instruction in Italian, French, and Spanish is delivered by native speakers. English is the primary language of instruction across core subjects. The curriculum places a clear emphasis on English learning, with additional languages taught as part of the programme. Language offerings accompany the main pathways, including the IB Diploma Programme, Cambridge IGCSE, and the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). | English as an additional language The BES bilingual programme uses English and Italian. In Primary School the bilingual programme is based on a 50% English - 50% Italian model. The school integrates the Italian Ministerial Programme (MIUR) with the Primary Years Programme (PYP) in Italian and English. The BAPS campus provides a full-immersion English environment for early years. |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing Student health and well-being are a central priority at the Canadian School of Milan. The school provides a dedicated counselling service offering confidential one-to-one sessions and group workshops to support motivation, personal development, and emotional resilience. Counseling addresses stress, study pressures, low mood, friendship dynamics, and family concerns, with referrals by teachers or staff as needed. A structured Personal & Social Education (PSED) curriculum complements counselling to build emotional literacy, empathy, and coping strategies. First aiders on each campus ensure physical safety and rapid response as part of the school's welfare commitment. | Mental wellbeing The Primary Years Programme (PYP) places great emphasis on the pupil's personal growth. The Learner Profile promotes the child's development physically, intellectually, emotionally and ethically. Pupils learn to learn and develop cross‑disciplinary skills within the PYP. The PSPE (Physical, Social and Personal Education) programme focuses on well-being through motor, social and personal development, with one hour of PE per week in Years 1–3 and activities at external venues from Year 4 onward. Drama nurtures self‑confidence, communication skills and awareness of one's feelings. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding Canadian School of Milan is committed to a warm, caring, and safe environment for all students. Bullying and safety concerns are addressed under a formal anti-bullying policy, which states that bullying is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. The policy sets out how incidents are reported and responded to, with staff required to respond calmly and consistently and to keep the victim safe. Procedures include informing parents for serious incidents, providing support and appropriate action, and applying sanctions when necessary. The school conducts whole-school anti-bullying initiatives, PSHE lessons, and staff training, and incidents are monitored and reviewed regularly. The policy was last updated in June 2024. | Safeguarding The Child Study Team, consisting of two psychologists and a psychomotor therapist, supports safeguarding by ensuring smooth transitions for students and families and addressing individual needs. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview The Canadian School of Milan operates on two centrally located campuses in Milan: Gioia Campus for Early Years and Primary, and Vivaio Campus for Middle and Senior School. Gioia Campus hosts Early Learning and Primary programmes in bright, child-centred spaces with a spacious playground. Vivaio Campus, opened in 2023, hosts the Middle and Senior School and offers state-of-the-art facilities tailored to the academic, social, and emotional needs of adolescents. The school serves students aged 2 to 18 and offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Together, the two campuses provide an age-appropriate learning environment at every stage of a student's education. | Facilities overview The British American Pre-School and the Bilingual European School share a Milan campus with a bilingual program from ages 2 to 18. The campus is surrounded by a garden of over 4,500 square meters, supporting outdoor learning. Learning spaces include a Knowledge Centre for reading, reflection, experimentation, collaboration and critical thinking, and a 1+1 Lab that blends science and art and includes a 3D printer. A LEGO Lab provides LEGO Education Innovation Studio resources for robotics and coding. The indoor spaces include a spacious School Gym for physical education and events, while the Smart Food at BES program emphasizes seasonal meals, fresh produce, limited plastic use and meals prepared by Soluzione Servizi. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities Co-Curricular Activities include sports programs across Primary and Senior School. Primary School offers Boys Soccer and Girls Soccer as part of the clubs. Senior School includes additional sports-related activities such as Calcetto Soccer and Table Tennis. Other physical education options appear in the clubs, including Yoga and Mindfulness. These offerings demonstrate a broad commitment to physical activity and team-based participation across the school community. | Sports facilities From Year 4 to Year 8, sport activities are held at Quanta Village, with volleyball, football, tennis, hip hop, baseball and hockey on a rotating schedule. The School Gym is spacious and versatile, hosting Primary physical education, conferences, performances and other school events. Sports Day is celebrated at Quanta Village. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities Gioia Campus hosts the Early Years and Primary programmes, while Vivaio Campus hosts the Middle and Senior School. In Middle School, students follow the Cambridge International Curriculum leading to IGCSE in Grades 9 and 10, and ultimately pursue the IB Diploma Programme in the final two years, supported by a dedicated University counsellor. Vivaio Campus opened in 2023 and provides state-of-the-art facilities to meet the academic, social, and emotional needs of students. The University counselling support complements the curriculum to help students plan for university destinations and programmes. | Academic facilities Knowledge Centre is a multifunctional space where students read, reflect, experiment, collaborate and think critically. The 1+1 Lab blends science and art and includes a 3D printer to support innovative projects. LEGO Lab provides LEGO Education Innovation Studio resources for robotics, coding and hands-on learning. The learning landscapes replace traditional classrooms with flexible spaces that empower student autonomy and inquiry; outdoor spaces such as the Garden support hands-on learning. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities The Co-Curricular Programme offers a diverse and evolving list of clubs to nurture student interests and interpersonal skills. Primary School clubs include Art Club, Chess, Robotics, Judo, Mindfulness, Theatre Club, Violin and wind instruments, and various language and social activities. Senior School clubs include Debate Club, Model UN, Music Technology, Orchestra, School Musical, and Table Tennis, among others. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, Student Council, and various performance and leadership opportunities are also part of the extracurricular offerings. | Extra curricular facilities Extraclubs offer extra-curricular activities after school hours. The after-school programme runs Monday to Friday and has two dismissal times: 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. During the after-school programme, children participate in recreational activities and Primary and Middle School students have access to a study help service. A School Bus service is available with pick-up points around Milan. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History Founded in 2004 by Antonella Salvadori del Prato, an Italian-Canadian educator who started a small nursery in Via Plinio, Milan. Her vision reflected Canadian values of emotional awareness, social connection, creativity and respect for others and the environment. In 2014, CSM moved to the Gioia campus, expanding to include Primary and Middle School programmes. In 2023, the Vivaio campus was inaugurated to welcome Senior School students and to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Today, more than 20 years after its founding, the school remains personally overseen by its founder, with Antonella Salvadori del Prato closely involved in daily life and major decisions. The school is an IB World School. | History Founded in 1999, the Bilingual European School is the first bilingual school in Milan. It is a Paritarian Primary and Secondary School with Italian and native English-speaking teachers and has offered a cutting-edge educational approach for years. It is the natural continuation of the British American Pre-School (BAPS), a full English preschool and kindergarten founded in 1987. The school complements the Italian ministerial programme with the Primary Years Programme (PYP) of the IBO. |
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Community
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Community CSM serves students aged 2 to 18 representing over 35 nationalities and operates across two central Milan campuses: Gioia for Early Years and Primary (Gioia Campus opened in 2014) and Vivaio for Middle and Senior School (opened in 2023). It offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and emphasizes leadership, character, and global citizenship as part of its learning approach. The campus setup and diverse community support an engaging, globally minded educational experience. | Community The BES and BAPS share the same campus in Milan, creating a connected community for ages 2 to 18. BES emphasizes bilingual education, developing English and Italian language proficiency and an international mindset to become global citizens. Families are invited to attend an Open Day to observe learning and meet staff. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association CSM Parents is the Canadian School of Milan's Parent Teacher Association. The goal is to strengthen the school community and encourage parental involvement, including Class Representatives, to improve communication and support fundraising through school events. CSM Parents meets regularly to organise activities such as liaising with Class Representatives, meeting with the Principal and school management to propose fundraising activities and community initiatives, and providing welcome at the start of the year. Events organized by the CSM Parents include the Halloween Party, Christmas Fair, Careers Fair, Canada Fest, Family breakfasts, and parent talks; funds raised have contributed to equipment and resources for the school. Class Representatives act as the liaison for a class and help coordinate communication, social events and gifts, and participate in meetings with School Management as needed. | Parent teacher association — |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual Co-Curricular Activities provide a diverse and evolving range of clubs that balance the rigorous IB programme with broader learning experiences. Primary School clubs include Art Club, Arts & Crafts, Baby Dance, Ballet, Chess, Chinese, Choir, Cursive Writing clinic, French for Beginners, Robotics, Mindfulness, Reading Club, Theatre Club, Violin Group and Wind Instruments. Senior School clubs include Debate Club, Duke of Edinburgh, Model UN, Robotics, SAT Preparation, Italian Conversation, German for Beginners, English Clinic, and Italian language support, as well as activities such as School Musical and Orchestra. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is also offered as part of student leadership and service activities. | Academic & intellectual Chess club stimulates intellectual development and strategic thinking. Latin provides a concise foundation of the Latin language and connects students with Western cultural roots. LEGO Education Story Starter and LEGO Coding and Robotics introduce robotics and programming through hands-on projects, building literacy and problem-solving skills. Build Your Video Game teaches creative coding with Scratch, promoting collaboration and computational thinking. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative Arts and musical pursuits are supported through Private Music Lessons and a range of co-curricular options. Private Music Lessons offer instrument and voice instruction with performance practice workshops and student recitals; lessons run Monday to Friday for Kindergarten through Grade 12, and teachers are qualified professional musicians who can prepare students for ABRSM exams. Co-Curricular Arts activities include Choir, Theatre Club, Orchestra, Violin Group, and Wind Instruments, as well as Song and Storytime and other creative activities. | Arts & creative Drama clubs provide opportunities to prepare performances for families and the school community, fostering creativity and communication. The School Choir prepares a wide repertoire for scheduled performances throughout the year, building teamwork and self-confidence. Ballet and Modern Dance classes, taught by qualified teachers, develop posture, musicality and social interaction. LEGO Education Story Starter, LEGO Coding and Robotics, and Build Your Video Game activities also support creative storytelling and making. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language Language and cultural opportunities include Primary School Chinese and French for Beginners; Senior School offers German for Beginners, Italian Conversation, and Spanish Conversation, along with English language clinics and language-related study support. Model United Nations conferences in Madrid and New York broaden public speaking, diplomacy and global awareness. | Cultural & language Spanish extraclub aims to prepare for the Istituto Cervantes A2 certificate with practice using past exam materials. French extraclub focuses on DELF A2 preparation with tasks in oral and written comprehension and production. Latin extraclub provides a foundation for Latin using the Orberg method and deepens knowledge of Western culture. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies Co-Curricular Activities support social engagement and personal interests beyond academics, with options such as Board Games, Calcetto Soccer, Chess, Chinese for Beginners, Choir, Drama in French, DJ/Podcasting related activities, and Yoga & Mindfulness. Primary and Senior School students also participate in sports like Boys Soccer and Girls Soccer, alongside performance and creative clubs. | Social & hobbies MINI GAMES include basketball and other team activities such as field hockey, handball and baseball, promoting teamwork and sportsmanship. JUDO, FOOTBALL, YOGA and KARATE offer physical activity, balance and social interaction. Drama and Choir provide social engagement and collaborative performance opportunities. |
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Community & service
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Community & service Student Citizenship and Leadership encourages students to take an active role in school life and the local community, developing social responsibility through meaningful community service. Leadership is woven into all grades, with opportunities to assume roles in Student Council and a School House System that promotes teamwork and school spirit. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award further supports volunteering, expeditions, and service activities. | Community & service — |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional Leadership is embedded across the school from Kindergarten to Grade 12, with student leadership roles and involvement in decision-making. Each division has a Student Council to collaborate with peers and faculty, and a House System to foster leadership, cooperation and school spirit. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award provides structured opportunities to develop leadership, resilience and service. | Leadership & professional — |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing Student wellbeing is a central priority, with a dedicated counselling service offering confidential one-to-one sessions and group workshops focused on motivation, personal development and emotional resilience. All campuses are staffed with qualified first aiders to ensure physical safety. Mindfulness and Yoga are available through cocurriculars, and sports such as Boys Soccer and Girls Soccer support physical wellbeing. | Lifestyle & wellbeing Judo, Football, Yoga, Karate and Table Tennis build physical fitness, balance and teamwork. Ballet and Modern Dance develop posture, musicality and expressive movement, contributing to overall well-being. Yoga adds relaxation techniques and opportunities for self-reflection. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision English is the language of study. French is studied as a second language starting from Kindergarten (5 years), with preparation for external DELF exams available for all ages. Italian language instruction begins in Grade 1, with programs for native Italian speakers and beginner Italian for international students. French and Italian teachers are native speakers. | Language provision Italian and English are the languages of instruction. The BES bilingual programme is designed around Italian and English language proficiency. The Primary School follows a 50/50 English-Italian model, and the High School offers an Italian-Canadian dual diploma (Ontario Secondary School Diploma). All levels are offered on the Milan campus. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching The BES bilingual programme is based on a 50% English - 50% Italian model and operates across Primary, Middle, and High School. English language teaching in Middle School is 15 hours per week. The High School offers a four-year Liceo Scientifico delle Scienze Applicate with an Italian-Canadian dual diploma (Ontario Secondary School Diploma). The program serves students from ages 2 to 18 on the Milan campus. |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs — | Immersion programs On-site, the British American Pre-School provides full immersion English education. The two institutions—the BES campus and BAPS—are located on the same campus in Milan, facilitating immersion experiences for early learners. |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards — | Awards — |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations — | Accreditations MIUR recognition — Primary and Middle School recognised by the Italian Ministry of Education (MIUR) WWF-Partner — partnership with the World Wildlife Fund Avangurdie Digitale — digital partner Project Zero — collaboration with Project Zero LEGO Education — LEGO Education partner |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions 1. Book tour. We offer campus tours and Open Days where you can ask questions, learn about our curriculum, and see learning in action. These visits provide an opportunity to observe the school environment and discuss questions with staff. The admissions process begins with scheduling a tour. 2. Complete the online application. Please upload: past 2 years of school reports, copy of passport or ID, any document disclosing your child's Special Educational Needs diagnosis (if applicable), any relevant document regarding guardianship or custody when a parent has full custody following a separation or divorce. A Reference Form is required for senior school applicants. 3. Assessment stage. Our Admissions Team will contact you to schedule a student interview and any necessary assessments. In some cases, entry assessments may be requested prior to the interview, depending on the student's previous schooling and report cards. All applicants for grades 9-12 are required to complete an entry assessment, regardless of educational background. 4. Offer of place. Within 5 working days of the interview or entry assessment, our Admissions Team will communicate our decision regarding the offer of a place. Families are asked to confirm their decision within 10 days of the Offer of Place by paying the Admission Fee. If this payment is not received, the place will be offered to the next applicant on our waiting list. | Admissions 1. Submit an inquiry or book an interview by filling out the form on this page. The Admissions Team will respond promptly. This initial contact can be used to request information about BES and BAPS. You may also plan to attend an Open Day or book a tour as part of your preparation. 2. Admission is based on previous school experience and includes a personal interview and an assessment test for pupils aged 6 and up. Personal background is also taken into consideration to support pupils in our BAPS Full Immersion English Programme and BES bilingual programme. Applicants should be prepared to participate in the interview and the assessment test. 3. Parents and students are invited to attend an Open Day or book a tour of the school to learn more about the programme and enrollment options. Open Day events provide information about the programmes and enrollment options. Tours include explanations in Italian and/or English, and a member of the Admissions team can answer questions. 4. To see our school fees, click on the button below. View our school fees by clicking the "view our SCHOOL FEES" button. Fees information is provided on the admissions pages to help families plan enrollment. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships — | Scholarships — |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist Waiting list. The school uses a waiting list for offers that are not immediately confirmed. If an offered place is not confirmed within 10 days by paying the Admission Fee, the place is offered to the next applicant on the waiting list. | Waitlist — |
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