International School of Milan and The British School of Milan - Sir James Henderson are both in Milan, about 11 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes, and The British School of Milan - Sir James Henderson also offers British, EYFS and Cambridge IGCSE. Published annual fees are close, at €10,500 - 25,960 for International School of Milan and €14,490 - 24,900 for The British School of Milan - Sir James Henderson. International School of Milan takes pupils from 2 to 18, and The British School of Milan - Sir James Henderson from 3 to 18.
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International School of Milan
Milan, Italy
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The British School of Milan - Sir James Henderson
Milan, Italy
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Fees / year
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Fees / year €10,500 - 25,960 | Fees / year €14,490 - 24,900 |
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Age range
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Age range 2 - 18 years | Age range 3 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding) | Type Co-educational |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP) | Curriculum British Curriculum, EYFS (Early years foundation stage), Cambridge IGCSE, IB (DP) |
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Pupils
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Pupils — | Pupils 780 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size — | Typical class size 20 |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened 1958 | Opened 1969 |
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Bus service
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Bus service Yes | Bus service No |
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Location
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Location The school is located in Baranzate, in the Milan metropolitan area. The address is Via 1 Maggio, 20, 20021 Baranzate MI, Italy. | Location The British School of Milan is located in the north‑east of Milan, between the centre and Milano Due. It is about a 10‑minute walk from two Green Line Metro stations on the M2 line (Udine and Lambrate FS) and a short drive from Linate Airport. The campus has entrances on Via Pisani Dossi, 16 (Main Entrance) and Via Rombon. |
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Stages
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Stages Early Years 2-5; Elementary School 6-10; Middle School 11-15; High School 16-18. The International Baccalaureate continuum covers ages 3-19, with Boarding available for ages 14-18. | Stages Early Years, Primary, Senior (Sixth Form). |
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School type
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School type Private international school in Milan offering the IB Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme. | School type Independent not-for-profit British international day school. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix Over 60 nationalities represented. | Pupil nationality mix Pupils come from over 40 countries; around forty nationalities represented. |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support — | Additional learning support English Language Support for pupils learning English as an Additional Language; Learning Support with a specialised team; individualised learning plans for pupils with recognised SEND; Senior School exam access arrangements when appropriate. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation — | Country affiliation Italy |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation — | Religious affiliation — |
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School day structure
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School day structure — | School day structure In Primary, the school day starts at 08.45 (Registration 08.45–09.00); lessons 09.00–10.20; break 10.20–10.40; lessons 10.40–12.00; Lunch 12.00–13.20; lessons 13.20–15.20; After‑School Co‑Curricular Activities 15.20–16.30. |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details The School Bus Service operates a comprehensive morning and afternoon service across local neighbourhoods in the Milan metropolitan area; a Bus Shuttle Service is available near the school; transport options can be tailored to families; routes and fees information are published; underground parking is available under the school. | Bus service details School transport is provided by Frigerio Viaggi; contract starting from the 2025/26 academic year; booking via the provided link; contact bsm@frigerioviaggi.com or +39 0362 350363. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Application and Registration Fees - New Student Admission Fee (payable once at initial enrolment): - Pre‑K to Grade 5: EUR 2,100. - Grade 6 to Grade 9: EUR 3,100. - Grade 10 to Grade 13: EUR 3,600. - Registration Fee (payable annually): - Pre‑K to Grade 1: EUR 600. - Grade 2 to Grade 13: EUR 900. - Company Premium (where applicable): EUR 1,530 (installments: EUR 383 / EUR 765 / EUR 383). Tuition Fees by Year Group (annual amount and three-instalment breakdown) - Pre‑Kindergarten — Full day: Annual EUR 12,300 — 1st payment EUR 3,075; 2nd payment EUR 6,150; 3rd payment EUR 3,075. - Pre‑Kindergarten — Half day: Annual EUR 10,760 — 1st payment EUR 2,690; 2nd payment EUR 5,380; 3rd payment EUR 2,690. - Kindergarten (Full day): Annual EUR 12,300 — 1st EUR 3,075; 2nd EUR 6,150; 3rd EUR 3,075. - Transition: Annual EUR 13,500 — 1st EUR 3,375; 2nd EUR 6,750; 3rd EUR 3,375. - Grade 1: Annual EUR 19,800 — 1st EUR 4,950; 2nd EUR 9,900; 3rd EUR 4,950. - Grade 2: Annual EUR 19,800 — 1st EUR 4,950; 2nd EUR 9,900; 3rd EUR 4,950. - Grade 3: Annual EUR 20,050 — 1st EUR 5,013; 2nd EUR 10,025; 3rd EUR 5,013. - Grade 4: Annual EUR 20,050 — 1st EUR 5,013; 2nd EUR 10,025; 3rd EUR 5,013. - Grade 5: Annual EUR 20,250 — 1st EUR 5,063; 2nd EUR 10,125; 3rd EUR 5,063. - Grade 6: Annual EUR 21,450 — 1st EUR 5,362; 2nd EUR 10,725; 3rd EUR 5,362. - Grade 7: Annual EUR 22,100 — 1st EUR 5,525; 2nd EUR 11,050; 3rd EUR 5,525. - Grade 8: Annual EUR 22,100 — 1st EUR 5,525; 2nd EUR 11,050; 3rd EUR 5,525. - Grade 9: Annual EUR 22,200 — 1st EUR 5,550; 2nd EUR 11,100; 3rd EUR 5,550. - Grade 10: Annual EUR 25,000 — 1st EUR 6,250; 2nd EUR 12,500; 3rd EUR 6,250. - Grade 11: Annual EUR 25,100 — 1st EUR 6,275; 2nd EUR 12,550; 3rd EUR 6,275. - Grade 12: Annual EUR 26,950 — 1st EUR 6,737; 2nd EUR 13,475; 3rd EUR 6,737. - Grade 13: Annual EUR 26,950 — 1st EUR 6,737; 2nd EUR 13,475; 3rd EUR 6,737. Billing Schedule and Payment Terms - Payment options: tuition may be paid in full at the start of the academic year or in three instalments. - Instalment due structure (new‑student / published schedule): - 1st payment: on enrolment — covers the New Student Admission Fee (NSAF), the Registration Fee and 25% of the annual tuition (and 25% of boarding fees for boarding students). - 2nd payment: by 23 August 2026 — covers 50% of lunch fees, 50% of the annual tuition (and 50% of boarding fees for boarding students). - 3rd payment: by 1 December 2026 — covers the remaining 50% of lunch fees and the remaining 25% of annual tuition (and remaining 25% of boarding fees for boarding students). - All amounts must be paid by the dates indicated; instalment amounts shown above reflect the split applied to the annual fees. Boarding Fees - Boarding — Double room: Annual EUR 19,000 — 1st EUR 4,750; 2nd EUR 9,500; 3rd EUR 4,750. - Boarding — Single room: Annual EUR 25,000 — 1st EUR 6,250; 2nd EUR 12,500; 3rd EUR 6,250. - Boarding instalment allocation follows the same 25% / 50% / 25% pattern within the three payments (as noted above). Other Costs and Optional Extras - Lunch (annual): Standard lunch fee EUR 1,700 — charged in two instalments of EUR 850 and EUR 850; Grade 12 lunch fee EUR 1,650; Grade 13 lunch fee EUR 1,638. - Tuition fees exclude optional extras such as bus service, swimming, ballet, and other co‑curricular extras; these are billed separately. - Items explicitly included in tuition: personal insurance and medical service, textbooks and stationery, daily school trips and external examinations (where listed under inclusions). - Additional one‑off or optional charges (where applicable) include the New Student Admission Fee, annual Registration Fee and Company Premium as listed above. Refunds and Withdrawal - No refund or withdrawal terms are specified in the published fee schedule provided with the school fees; the fee schedule does not state a refund policy. Fee Payment Options (methods and bank details) - Bank transfer details provided for fee payment: - Bank: Banca Popolare dell'Emilia Romagna - Beneficiary: International School of Europe S.p.A. - IBAN: IT73F0538701614000000739260 - BIC/SWIFT: BPMOIT22 - No other payment methods (for example credit card) are specified on the published fee schedule. | Fee details Tuition fees (annual and per-term billing) - EUR 14,000 per year: Nursery and Reception (Private). Payment schedule: 40% = EUR 5,600 (due 31 May), 30% = EUR 4,200 (due 31 October), 30% = EUR 4,200 (due 31 January). - EUR 15,400 per year: Nursery and Reception (Corporate). Payment schedule: 40% = EUR 6,160 (due 31 May), 30% = EUR 4,620 (due 31 October), 30% = EUR 4,620 (due 31 January). - EUR 16,300 per year: Year 1 and Year 2 (Private). Payment schedule: 40% = EUR 6,520, 30% = EUR 4,890, 30% = EUR 4,890. - EUR 17,900 per year: Year 1 and Year 2 (Corporate). Payment schedule: 40% = EUR 7,160, 30% = EUR 5,370, 30% = EUR 5,370. - EUR 17,900 per year: Year 3 and Year 4 (Private). Payment schedule: 40% = EUR 7,160, 30% = EUR 5,370, 30% = EUR 5,370. - EUR 19,700 per year: Year 3 and Year 4 (Corporate). Payment schedule: 40% = EUR 7,880, 30% = EUR 5,910, 30% = EUR 5,910. - EUR 18,800 per year: Year 5 and Year 6 (Private). Payment schedule: 40% = EUR 7,520, 30% = EUR 5,640, 30% = EUR 5,640. - EUR 20,600 per year: Year 5 and Year 6 (Corporate). Payment schedule: 40% = EUR 8,240, 30% = EUR 6,180, 30% = EUR 6,180. - EUR 20,100 per year: Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9 (Private). Payment schedule: 40% = EUR 8,040, 30% = EUR 6,030, 30% = EUR 6,030. - EUR 22,100 per year: Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9 (Corporate). Payment schedule: 40% = EUR 8,840, 30% = EUR 6,630, 30% = EUR 6,630. - EUR 21,500 per year: Year 10 and Year 11 (Private). Payment schedule: 40% = EUR 8,600, 30% = EUR 6,450, 30% = EUR 6,450. - EUR 23,600 per year: Year 10 and Year 11 (Corporate). Payment schedule: 40% = EUR 9,440, 30% = EUR 7,080, 30% = EUR 7,080. - EUR 22,700 per year: Year 12 and Year 13 (Private). Payment schedule: 40% = EUR 9,080, 30% = EUR 6,810, 30% = EUR 6,810. - EUR 24,900 per year: Year 12 and Year 13 (Corporate). Payment schedule: 40% = EUR 9,960, 30% = EUR 7,470, 30% = EUR 7,470. Registration and admissions fees - Registration fee (new pupils Nursery & Reception): EUR 2,900. - Registration fee (new pupil Years 1–13, first child): EUR 5,400. - Registration fee (each new sibling Years 1–13): EUR 3,900. - Registration fee is non-refundable and is a one-time payment due on initial enrolment; payment must be made within 10 days of receiving the offer. - Entrance assessment test and SEN test: EUR 300 payable in advance; this amount is deducted from the registration fee if a place is confirmed. Music lessons, clubs and co-curricular charges - Individual music lessons: 40-minute lesson EUR 41; 60-minute lesson EUR 61. - After-school clubs: EUR 178 per club per term. Twilight Club, Mandarin Club and Varsity Club fees are determined after sign-up and do not have a fixed published fee. English as an Additional Language (EAL) fees - Senior EAL, per term: Support Level A EUR 2,850; Level B EUR 2,350; Level C EUR 1,850; Level D EUR 1,300; Level E EUR 780. Academic Writing Course EUR 370. - Primary EAL packages, per term: Gold EUR 2,850; Silver EUR 2,000; Bronze EUR 1,150. Italian and Italian mathematics tuition (per term) - Primary School Italian: EUR 270 per term and EUR 450 per term (both amounts published). - Senior School Italian & Maths: EUR 780 per term and EUR 850 per term (both amounts published). Other fees and services - IGCSE examination fees vary by number of subjects; benchmark range published: EUR 1,000 to EUR 1,200. - IB examination fee varies by year; benchmark published: EUR 1,150. - Compulsory educational trips are not included in tuition and are billed separately on demand. - Bus service is provided and billed by a third-party transport company; bus costs are additional. - Lunches are billed separately at EUR 7.80 per lunch (excluding VAT). Billing schedule and payment terms - Standard tuition billing is split as follows: 40% due 31 May, 30% due 31 October, 30% due 31 January. Other fees and term-based services follow the payment dates shown in the school's payment schedule. - Late or overdue payments incur interest at a rate of 2% per annum. Pupils whose fees are overdue by 15 days or more may be excluded from the school until outstanding amounts and related interest are settled in full. Withdrawal, refunds and penalties - The registration fee is non-refundable. - If a student withdraws after the published notice deadlines a penalty of EUR 3,000 will be charged. - The EUR 300 entrance assessment/SEN test fee is payable in advance and is deducted from the registration fee if a place is confirmed. Fee payment options and bank details - All payments must be made by bank transfer to the school account as follows: The British School of Milan Srl, Banca BPM, IBAN: IT35Y0503401647000000008407, BIC/SWIFT: BAPPIT21G57. Discounts - Sibling discounts on tuition only: 12% discount for the third child attending at the same time; 65% discount for the fourth child attending at the same time (discounts apply only when children attend concurrently). |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements Boarding is provided for students aged 14 to 18. The Boarding House opened in 2018 and houses 42 students on the largest campus in Italy. Boarding options include weekly, termly, full-time and part-time arrangements; single or double bedrooms are available, with each boarder receiving a bunk bed, desk, wardrobe and storage. Meals are provided by school caterers with vegetarian, vegan, halal and kosher options; laundry service is available; 24/7 security and live-in house parents support boarders; weekend trips and on-site activities are offered. | Boarding arrangements — |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement The uniform is compulsory for students up to Grade 9. High school students do not have a uniform, but must follow the dress code and wear a PE kit for Physical Education. | Uniform requirement All students wear a uniform. Years 7–13 wear trousers, shorts or skirts in blue denim, navy blue, black or beige; Sixth Form (Years 12–13) wear a blue and white striped shirt with the school logo and a jumper if desired; Nursery to Year 11 wear a polo shirt with a V-neck jumper. Uniforms can be purchased from LM School Uniforms (Nursery–Year 13) and Hobby & Volley for the PE kit. |
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Food options
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Food options Lunch is compulsory and included in school fees (the lunch fee is listed separately on the fee schedule). The catering service provides meals on site and accommodates vegetarian, vegan, halal and kosher diets; the on-site café offers snacks and drinks. | Food options The school uses Pellegrini Catering Services. All Nursery to Year 11 students have lunch on site and may bring a packed lunch or have a school lunch. Sixth Form students may have a school lunch or go out to a local cafe with written parental permission. Lunches are billed termly. A Food Quality Coordinator monitors the menu with Pellegrini's nutritionist, and there is a cafe/bar at morning break and vending machines around the site. |
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House system
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House system — | House system Primary has three Houses—Foxes, Crocodiles and Dolphins. Pupils belong to a House, accumulate points for good behaviour and achievement, and a House Cup is awarded each term. Senior has three Houses—Darwin, Caxton and Seacole—headed by two Student Council members; the Student Voice coordinates charity activity and inter-house competitions across sport, drama and music. |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership IS Milan is part of the Inspired Education Group, being an Inspired school within a family of premium schools across multiple countries. | Governance and ownership The British School of Milan SRL (an Italian 'società a responsabilità limitata') runs the school and is 100% owned by The Sir James Henderson British School of Milan (ETS). The SRL is governed by a Board of Directors; the school is regularly inspected by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) and is a member of the Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference (HMC) and COBIS. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details IS Milan offers the International Baccalaureate Continuum (PYP, MYP, DP) for learners from Early Years (ages 2-5) through High School (ages 16-18), spanning Kindergarten to Grade 13. Instruction is in English, with tailored language and learning pathways within the IB framework to support multilingual development. From Year 1 onward, students are taught by subject specialists in English, French, Spanish, mathematics, science, drama, dance, music, and physical education. The curriculum is complemented by integrated co-curricular activities, global exchanges, camps and interschool collaborations. IS Milan is the first IB World School in Milan and is part of Inspired, providing a framework that supports learning across a global network. | Curriculum details Follows the English National Curriculum from ages 3 to 16, with IGCSE in Year 11 and the International Baccalaureate Diploma in the Sixth Form. Nursery to University: Early Years 3-5; Primary 5-11; Senior 11-18. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results In 2025 IB results: Average Point Score 34; Highest Diploma Score 44; 69% earned bilingual IBDP. | Exam results IB Diploma Programme average 37.3 points; IGCSE results 9-4 grades 100%; University entry 100%. |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression One-third of IS Milan students attend leading universities, including US Ivy League and UK Russell Group institutions. Alumna Francesca Bianchessi (Graduating class of 2024, 45 points at the IBDP exams) was awarded the Alfieri del Lavoro prize and studied at University College of London. | Higher education progression 100% university entry. |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented — | Gifted and talented Three IB Diploma Programme scholarships awarded annually to high-ability students entering Year 12; scholarships last two years and may cover up to 100% of tuition, based on merit and means testing. Internal and external candidates may apply. |
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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 The school includes PSHE (Personal, Social and Health Education) in the Middle School curriculum. The school provides individualised tutorial support to address academic and personal development needs. The Co-Curriculum includes events to enhance personal, social and health awareness, and Careers and University Advice support students' broader development. Service as Action and Approaches to Learning (ATL) frameworks underpin cross-curricular work, helping students grow socially and emotionally. The school fosters an inclusive community where students are valued as individuals and supported to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. | Social & emotional learning The school delivers PSHE (Personal, Social and Health Education) in a safe environment, enabling students to explore issues such as cultural diversity and healthy living. The Senior School assigns each pupil to a tutor who takes an active interest in their academic work and co-curricular involvement, while Primary pupils have a classroom teacher who fulfils the same role. Students participate in PSHE sessions, school assemblies and wider learning to develop personal and social competencies. The pastoral system supports well-being and happiness across curricular and co-curricular life. A counsellor provides confidential counselling to help students address personal concerns and develop coping strategies, and there is a broader programme to combat stress and support well-being. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) The school provides Middle School with individualised tutorial support. Students with diagnosed learning needs or specific behavioural profiles may be referred to the school's support service for assessment and determination of needs. The school uses CAT4 as part of admissions to tailor planning and support. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is available for multilingual learners to access the IB curriculum. | Special educational needs (SEN) The Learning Support Department identifies and supports pupils with specific educational needs, working with teachers, parents and students to create an inclusive learning environment. The department offers one-to-one or small-group support and aims to help pupils access the curriculum and reach their potential. Specific learning difficulties are recognised, assessed and catered for, with individualised learning plans for SEND students. Access arrangements for exams are arranged in the Senior School where appropriate to ensure equal opportunities. A range of teaching approaches, small-group or one-to-one sessions and technology are used to support inclusive learning; a SEND & Learning Support Policy exists. |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language The school offers English as an Additional Language (EAL) alongside Italian, Spanish, French and Mandarin Chinese in Middle School. EAL support helps multilingual learners access all IB curriculum components. | English as an additional language Many students have English as their first language, and ongoing English language support is provided until pupils are fully confident in their language skills. The Learning Support Department coordinates language development and inclusive education for EAL students. An EAL policy is published in the Key Policies. |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing Inspired's sporting pillar stands for health and wellbeing, motivation, self-discipline and self-esteem. The three-pillar Inspired approach integrates academics, sport and creative arts to support students' physical and mental wellbeing and to foster resilience and confidence. | Mental wellbeing The School Counsellor offers independent and confidential counselling to students. There is a broader programme that provides strategies to combat stress and support well-being. The on-site School Nurse provides medical and first aid support and the school maintains First Aid at Work trained staff. The PSHE programme and pastoral care underpin mental wellbeing and resilience across year groups. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding Safeguarding is supported through boarding and campus wellbeing structures. The Boarding House is led by live-in house parents and residential and non-residential tutors, with core staff working alongside health professionals to reinforce student well-being. The school maintains a secure environment with robust supervision and safety measures for boarders and day students. | Safeguarding A Safeguarding Policy exists, with references to Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) and related child protection policies. A designated e-Safety Officer works with the leadership team, pastoral team and ICT department to implement resources and measures to keep pupils safe online. Tutor time and PSHE activities address contemporary safety issues, including internet trends, security settings and pupils' digital footprints. The school maintains safeguarding procedures consistent with statutory guidance and monitors responses to concerns through its policy framework. |
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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 Baranzate campus is the largest school campus in Milan and serves over 900 day and boarding students from more than 60 nationalities. It opened in September 2013 and features modern, purpose-built facilities with extensive external spaces. Boarding facilities opened in 2018 and enhance the family-like atmosphere on campus. | Facilities overview The British School of Milan is located at Via Pisani Dossi, 16, Milano 20134, Italy. It is a not-for-profit British international school serving over 700 pupils from around 40 nationalities aged 3 to 18. The campus provides a safe, well-located environment for learning and play with small class sizes. It delivers a rigorous British curriculum in English and supports a broad co-curricular programme including music and the performing arts, with alumni regularly returning for concerts. The school emphasizes pastoral care and academic achievement. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities The campus has excellent sport and PE facilities, including a full-size indoor swimming pool and a large gymnasium. The sports hall hosts indoor activities such as football, basketball and badminton; in warmer months, the astroturf football pitch and outdoor spaces are available for additional activities. | Sports facilities The on-site facilities include a gym, and the school uses a range of local and specialist sporting facilities to support co-curricular sport across all key stages during lunchtimes, after-school and weekends. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities Academic facilities include modern science laboratories, creative arts rooms and specialist PE facilities. Classrooms feature smart TVs and interactive technology for immersive learning, and immersive classes take place in specialist learning rooms. There are two libraries serving primary and secondary students, and the theatre hosts assemblies and performances. | Academic facilities The campus houses a Learning Resource Centre (library), Science Laboratories, a Computer Suite, a Digital Suite, a Music Classroom, a Drama Studio, an Art Classroom, and dedicated subject classrooms to support the British curriculum in English for ages 3–18. The facilities are described as well-resourced to foster a high-quality teaching and learning environment. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities Creative Arts are taught in specialist rooms for Art, Drama, Music and Dance, with access to a spacious theatre for assemblies and performances. On-site activities include sport, dance, board games, cooking, arts and crafts, movie nights and karaoke. Boarding life includes weekend trips to Verona, Bologna, Torino and the lakes, plus residential trips to Rome, Florence, Venice and skiing in Northern Italy; music practice rooms, arts rooms and a dance studio are available on campus. | Extra curricular facilities The co-curricular programme offers 100+ after-school activities. Educational trips and visits supplement classroom learning, including sports tournaments, debate competitions, Model United Nations conferences, and science and history excursions. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is part of the programme, and events such as the BSM Eisteddfod and The Sir James Lecture Series are part of school life. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History IS Milan is the first established IB school in Milan and has served Milan's international and Italian communities for over 60 years. It was founded by Francesco Formiga in 1958. It was recognised by the Italian Ministry of Public Education; the IB Diploma was accredited in 1997, followed by MYP accreditation in 2004 and PYP in 2005. In 2013 the campuses merged to form the Baranzate campus, IS Milan joined Inspired in 2016, and the Boarding division opened in 2018. | History Established in 1969, the Sir James Henderson British School of Milan offered a British-style education to Milan's international expatriate community. It operates as an independent, not-for-profit organization serving pupils from nursery to university, and has grown from a handful of students to around 700 pupils drawn from about forty nationalities. It is now known as The British School of Milan (BSM), formerly the Sir James Henderson School. All Sixth Formers pursue the International Baccalaureate Diploma. |
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Community
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Community The IS Milan community is diverse, representing 60 nationalities. From early years to Grade 13, students participate in practical, engaging lessons in an inclusive environment. The school offers the IB Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme. | Community The school has an international student body representing around forty nationalities, and a strong, supportive network of parents and Friends. Pupils participate in a wide range of sports and the performing arts; music and art are highlighted, and alumni return for regular concerts. The school aims to foster a strong sense of community involving students, staff, parents and alumni. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association — | Parent teacher association Friends is The British School of Milan's parent group. Our goal is to support and strengthen a sense of community and improve and enhance communication between parents, teachers, governors and students. All parents are automatically members and the Class Representative Network coordinates involvement, while Friends organizes social and fundraising events. Groups within Friends include Bus, Lunch, Uniform, Welcome, and Parent Co-Curricular; events include a Christmas Fair, a Careers Fair, an Alumni University Fair and a Summer Aperitivo, with funds raised supporting outdoor improvements, the Primary Wild Garden, theatre lighting, shade areas, music equipment, recording equipment, IT hardware and more. For more information, please contact friends@bsm.school. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual The Co-Curriculum extends IB learning beyond the regular classroom through IS Milan's framework. PYP core includes Sport & Movement, Music, Drama & Public Speaking, Library Skills, day and residential trips, and the PYP Exhibition. MYP includes Service as Action projects, interdisciplinary units, leadership opportunities, and day and residential trips and the End of Year Programme. DP includes CAS, TOK, and EE, with ongoing trips, leadership roles, and dedicated university and career guidance. | Academic & intellectual Educational trips supplement and enrich teaching; they range from local day trips to month-long international expeditions. Regular international excursions include sports tournaments in Switzerland and Austria, debate competitions, Model United Nations conferences in France and Spain, and Maths and History competitions in Luxembourg, Austria and Belgium. World Challenge Expeditions include Vietnam and Cambodia; there have been trips to Croatia with Operation Wallacea; theatre visits in French, Italian, Spanish and English; geography investigations in Piacenza, Verona and Elba; and Science visits to CERN. Each educational visit is comprehensively assessed for risk and safety. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative Creative Arts are a pillar of the Inspired education programme. Regular specialist lessons in Music, Drama, Movement, Public Speaking and Visual Arts are provided, with after-school activities to extend learning. There are numerous performances each year, including music and drama clubs and culminations of class activities at special events. The Parent Advisory Board (PAB) runs additional events throughout the year to showcase student talents. | Arts & creative Art Twilight Class and after-school art-based clubs run in the primary and senior schools. The Media Production Club offers video and content production projects spanning pre-production to post-production. Digital Advertising Strategies lets students explore branding and online advertising, including Google Ads basics and SEO. There are five choirs (Primary School Choir, Junior Choir, Senior Choir, Chamber Choir, and Parents'/Friends' Choir) and ABRSM is the center for instrumental tuition in Italy, with about 200 students. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language Clubs and Societies include a lunchtime Business Club. Student Leadership Forums include Student Council and Grade 6 and Grade 12 House Captains, as well as Food Forum and Eco ISM. House Events and Celebratory Events foster social and cultural exchange within the school community. A range of clubs and events supports cultural awareness alongside academic and co-curricular activity. | Cultural & language The co-curriculum includes theatre visits in French, Italian, Spanish and English. Model United Nations exposes students to global issues, with conferences such as Paris MUN, Barcelona MUN and Milan MUN. BSM Eisteddfod is a house competition blending culture with academic subjects. The Sir James Lecture Series brings leading figures from sport, arts and society to speak to the school community. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies Lunchtime and after-school clubs provide social engagement and hobbies. The Sport Team programme runs lunchtime and after-school clubs to develop physical and mental skills and healthy friendships. Clubs, societies and student leadership forums broaden social interaction and leadership experience. The End of Year Programme includes events such as the ISM film festival, plays, entrepreneurial days, and other student-led activities. | Social & hobbies The co-curricular programme includes a rich array of clubs and activities during the school day, after-school, weekends and some holiday periods. Pupils in the Primary and Senior Schools benefit from an outstanding range of co-curricular activities. There is an After-School Care Club for Nursery and Reception. The everyONE initiative aims for every Year Group to participate in at least one co-curricular activity each academic year. |
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Community & service
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Community & service Service as Action projects are integral to MYP and DP, developing leadership and community engagement. In the Diploma Programme, CAS focuses on creativity, activity, and service alongside TOK and the Extended Essay. Day and residential trips support social development and exposure to diverse communities. Ongoing leadership opportunities and service projects align with IS Milan's commitment to global citizenship. | Community & service The school has a tradition of service and local and international charity projects. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award offers Bronze in Year 10 and Silver and Gold in Year 12, with four sections (Skills, Physical Recreation, Voluntary Service, Adventurous Journey) and a Residential Project at Gold level. The Sir James Lecture Series fosters community engagement with speakers from business, academia and society. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional Developing leaders is a core objective of the IB curricula and the Inspired mission. Student Leadership Forums include Student Council and Grade 6 and Grade 12 House Captains. There is a Careers Convention for Grades 10–12, plus ongoing university and career guidance and supportive resources. Clubs and competitions foster leadership and entrepreneurial skills. | Leadership & professional Leadership opportunities are integrated into co-curricular sport, with PlayMaker Award in Primary and the Young Leader Award in the Senior School. The Duke of Edinburgh's Award includes leadership development across its four sections. The Sir James Lecture Series provides opportunities to hear from leaders in sport, business and the arts. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing Sport is a pillar of the Inspired education programme, essential to physical and mental wellbeing. Students participate in Physical Education within the regular curriculum, with optional after-school sports and a dedicated Sport Team programme. Lunchtime and after-school sport clubs promote healthy habits and friendships. Educational visits and residential trips provide experiential learning that supports wellbeing and social development. | Lifestyle & wellbeing Sport is offered across lunchtimes, after-school and weekends with a wide range of after-school sport clubs. The programme emphasises values such as sportsmanship, integrity, respect, effort, humility and teamwork. There is an After-School Care Club for Nursery and Reception. The everyONE initiative ensures Year Groups participate in at least one co-curricular activity each year, promoting balanced well-being through active involvement. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision Language & Literature: English and Italian (with mother-tongue teachers). Language Acquisition: English as an Additional Language (EAL), Italian, Spanish, French and Mandarin Chinese. As the official languages of the IB, French and Spanish are taught, and Mandarin Chinese is also offered. A Japanese language programme is available for native and non-native speakers. | Language provision English is the medium of instruction at The British School of Milan. English Language Support is provided for pupils learning English as an Additional Language (EAL) to enable participation and academic success in the curriculum, in the Primary School. Additional Italian language support is offered in two categories: Native Speakers (preparation for Italian state exams) and Non-native Speakers (to improve Italian), with after-school sessions. The Italian provisions cover both Primary and Senior Schools, including Italian literature, grammar, history, geography, science and mathematics, and the Italian state exams have a 100% pass rate reported. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching The Middle School language programme is one of the most comprehensive in the city and is ideal for prospective bilingual and multilingual students who wish to study Italian and English in Milan. All students attain fluency in both English and Italian with native-language teachers. | Bilingual teaching — |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs The school offers a Japanese language programme suitable for both native and non-native speakers. | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards null | Awards — |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations The school is recognised as an International School in Italy by the Italian Ministry of Public Education; the Diploma is recognised as equivalent to the certification offered in Public Schools. | Accreditations — |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions 1. Submit an Application. To begin the admissions process, families should register their interest by completing the Application Form. After the school receives the form, the Admissions Team will contact parents and legal guardians to discuss their forthcoming application. The Apply Now button links to the application portal ismilan.openapply.com. This ensures the application process is initiated efficiently. 2. Meet our Principals. Once applications have been processed, parents and legal guardians will be invited to meet with the relevant Principal or Deputy Principal depending on availability. The meeting provides a detailed understanding of the school's ethos, curricular programme, expectations and daily activities. Meetings also give the Leadership Team an opportunity to evaluate student applications. Where possible, prospective student(s) should also be present; secondary applicants will complete an online CAT4 test prior to enrolment. 3. Offer Letter. The school will send an offer letter to the parents and legal guardians of successful applicants. 4. Registration & Admission. After the first annual fee instalment has been paid, your child is enrolled at the International School of Milan for the agreed start date. | Admissions The school is academically non-selective. The admissions criteria are fourfold: 1. Interview; 2) Reports and reference from the child's current school; 3) Assessments in English and Mathematics; 4) Availability of places in the relevant year group. 1. Interview: Usually with the Head of the Primary School for Primary admissions or with the Head of Key Stage for Senior School admissions; the interview discusses the curriculum, subject choices and school life, and is followed by a tour of the School. 2. Reports and reference: The latest reports and a reference from the child's current school are required. 3. Assessments: Standardised assessments in Senior School admissions determine whether a child can access a curriculum delivered in English; generally there are no assessments to enter the Primary School. 4. Availability: Demand for places is high and particularly competitive in key year groups, so parents are advised to apply early; the School maintains a balance of British, Italian and international students within each year group. For enquiries, complete the BSM online application form. The school has rolling admissions with no fixed deadline for applications. Years 10 and 12 Entry Information for September 2026 details the following: Year 10 Entry requires birth between 1 September 2011 and 31 August 2012; Year 12 Entry requires birth between 1 September 2009 and 31 August 2010. Registration and Subject Choice Form deadline is 15 September 2025; Entrance Exam Dates are 8 October 2025 for Year 10 and 15 October 2025 for Year 12; Interviews are in November 2025; Offers are confirmed by email; Acceptance Deadline is two weeks after the offer. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships Nsouli Scholars Programme. The Nsouli Scholars Programme is a global initiative that enables 50 extraordinary students at any one time to attend any Inspired school on a full scholarship for the duration of their education. The aim is to expand the Inspired community and empower children from diverse backgrounds with opportunities in academics, sports and the arts. Nadim Nsouli founded Inspired in 2013, and several scholarships will be awarded to individuals of Lebanese origin. Inspired schools offer a world-class educational experience that combines academics and engaging extracurricular activities, with access to specialist sports programmes and tutelage in the performing and creative arts. The Inspired group includes top-rated day and boarding schools worldwide, enabling Global Exchange Programmes and immersive experiences that broaden students' cultural horizons. | Scholarships Three IB Diploma Programme scholarships are awarded annually to students of high academic ability. A Scholarship recognises a student's academic performance, potential and participation in school life, and scholars are leaders in the Sixth Form and the broader school community. Scholarships are open on a competitive basis to all candidates who meet the eligibility criteria; awards are merit-based. External candidates should complete the main application form and email admissions to add their child to the scholarships list; internal candidates should email admissions to be added. The 2026-27 academic year is the current focus; the application deadline is 31 October. Schedule for awarding scholarships: Registration closes 31 October; Scholarship assessment in the first week of November; Interviews in the first week of December; Announcement of award in the third week of December; late applicants are not considered. The scholarships are for entry into Year 12 (age 16+), lasting two years (Years 12 and 13). The value is means-tested and can be up to 100% of tuition; the minimum is 20% of tuition, with awards based on declared family income following a set procedure and subject to annual means-testing. The award is based on merit after the scholarship assessment, the interview, and a satisfactory reference from the pupil's current school. The scholarship assessment consists of an online general-ability test (taken remotely under supervision) and an online scholarship interview. The examination is English-language; practice papers are not provided. Examinations take place at the school on the scheduled dates. The scholarship interview is conducted by the Scholarship Committee and lasts about 30 minutes; only candidates who perform sufficiently well in the written examination are invited to the interview. The decision to award a Scholarship is made by the Principal on the Scholarship Committee's recommendation. The Board of Governors does not participate in the decision-making. If a candidate is unavailable on the specified dates, examinations and/or interviews cannot be rescheduled. Continuation of a Scholarship depends on good school reports, attendance and punctuality; the Principal may reduce or withdraw an award for unsatisfactory progress, or for non-payment or breach of the Parental Code of Conduct. All other terms apply as described by the Scholarship Committee. |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist — | Waitlist The school does not publish waiting lists by year group; admissions operate on a rolling basis with no fixed deadline for applications. |
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