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Smiling International School - Campus Porta Mare

Italy, Ferrara

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English, Italian, Spanish, Mandarin
Fees Fees not listed
Ages 2 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 450
Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Opened 1998
Bus Service No
Part of
Smiling International School
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (MYP), IB (DP), Indian Curriculum
Taught languages English, Italian, Spanish, Mandarin
Typical class size 15
Strengths Languages, Visual and Creative Arts, Sport
Clubs Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language, Social and Hobbies
Stages Early Years, Primary School, Secondary School
Introduction

Located in Ferrara, Smiling International School offers bilingual education in English and Italian for students aged 2 to 18. Campus Porta Mare, housed in a renovated former monastery, features two spacious gardens overlooking the city's historic walls. The school utilizes the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, the IB Middle Years Programme, and the IB Diploma Programme alongside the Italian national curriculum. A distinctive feature is the four-year Linguistic High School track, enabling students to earn the Italian Maturità diploma one year earlier than standard Italian state schools. Students also study Chinese and Spanish, preparing for HSK and DELE language certifications. Extracurricular activities span from digital painting to sports dance. Smiling additionally employs a House Point System to foster teamwork across different grades, while an integrated Continuity Project ensures smooth transitions between all educational stages.

This campus is part of Smiling International School

Corso Porta Mare, 117, 44121 Ferrara FE, Italy

The Essentials

Smiling International School - Campus Porta Mare has 450 pupils, typical class sizes of 15, instruction in English, Italian, Spanish, Mandarin.

Location
Smiling International School of Ferrara is located in Ferrara, Italy, with two campuses: Campus Porta Mare at Corso Porta Mare, 117, 44121 Ferrara, and Campus Roversella at Via Roversella, 2, 44121 Ferrara. It offers Early Years, Primary School, Secondary School, a 4-Year Linguistic High School, and the 4-Year International Baccalaureate Diploma.

Stages
Early Years; Primary School; Secondary School; 4-Year Linguistic High School; 4-Year International Baccalaureate Diploma

Type
International school with a boarding program for high school students

Country affiliation
Italy
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements
Smiling Boarding provides boarding for high school students aged 14 and above. The boarding residence is on the top floor of Palazzo Gulinelli in Ferrara, with bright rooms each featuring a private bathroom and a study area; common areas include a fully equipped kitchen, a dining room, a laundry, and a panoramic terrace. The access to the building, rooms and shared spaces is controlled by a personal key or magnetic card, and the monthly rate includes utilities, weekly cleaning of common spaces, and weekly bed linen changes.

Uniform Requirement
Pupils attending Secondary School (up to 8th grade) must wear a school uniform.

Food Options
The school has a kitchen with a canteen on site to provide meals; menus are available (Menù Mensa).

House System
Students are divided into four houses — Quicksilvers, Acrobats, Druids or Brave Hearts — and earn points for their house throughout the year; the House Cup is awarded to the winning team.

Governance and Ownership
Smiling International School is a private institution accredited by the Italian Ministry of Education (MIUR) and is an International Baccalaureate World School offering the IB Diploma Programme.
Fees
Application fees

- An Admission & Enrolment Fee is required and must be paid to complete the enrolment process once an application has been accepted.

Tuition fees by school year (overview)

- The school charges an annual attendance tuition (referred to as a retta di frequenza) for each school level: Early Years, Primary School, Lower Secondary (Scuola Secondaria di I grado), Upper Secondary / Liceo and IB programmes.
- Specific monetary amounts for tuition by year group and per term are not published in the public planning documents; tuition amounts and the full fee schedule are provided to families through the school's admissions/enrolment process.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Enrolment is considered completed on receipt of the Admission & Enrolment Fee.
- The annual tuition obligation is established in the enrolment contract; the contract specifies the payment schedule and the modalities for payment (for example whether fees are payable in full or by instalments).
- For boarding (where applicable) the boarding contract and the school's administrative provisions specify the timing of boarding fee payments and any required deposit.

Boarding fees (where applicable)

- Boarding is offered under a separate residence/boarding arrangement. The boarding fee grants access to accommodation (single or double rooms as available), shared study spaces and the on-site lunch service Monday–Friday during the school term. Bedding/linen is provided as part of the accommodation service.
- A refundable security deposit (cauzione) is required for residents; the deposit amount is established in the boarding contract and is refundable at the end of the stay provided no damage or other outstanding charges remain.
- Any additional boarding-related charges (laundry beyond basic provision, damage repairs, replacement keys, penalties for late departures, etc.) are handled according to the residence regulations and the signed contract.

Other costs and fees

- Uniforms: Secondary-school students are required to wear a school uniform; the cost of uniforms is borne by families and uniform items are listed in the school's published uniform/divise documents.
- Stationery and course materials: Required stationery and material lists exist for each year group; these supplies are normally purchased by families.
- Extracurricular activities, special educational trips, exam/certification fees (language certifications and external examinations), summer camp participation and some optional services carry additional fees that are charged separately.
- Any security, administrative or other small one-off charges linked to enrolment, school trips or specific services are set out in the enrolment/contractual documentation for the relevant programme or activity.

Refund information

- For boarding, the security deposit is refundable at the end of the contractual relationship provided there is no damage; the contract and residence regulations set the terms for any deductions.
- Tuition- and enrolment-related refund and withdrawal conditions (including any penalties or non-refundable items) are determined by the enrolment contract and the administrative terms in the school's regulations; the enrolment contract specifies any applicable refund rules.

Fee payment options

- The enrolment and boarding contracts define the permitted payment methods and the billing process; payment timing and modalities are specified in those contractual documents.
- Families should follow the billing instructions included in the enrolment paperwork for payment methods (bank transfer, card or other methods where available) and for the deadlines that apply to each instalment or invoice.
Academics

Smiling International School - Campus Porta Mare teaches IB (MYP), IB (DP), Indian Curriculum for students aged 2 to 18.

Curriculum
Smiling International School Ferrara provides education from Early Years through High School. English is the primary language of instruction across all levels, with Chinese and Spanish available for study. The High School offers a four-year Linguistic High School culminating in the diploma di Maturità and a four-year pathway that includes the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP). The IB Diploma Programme is a two-year Diploma Programme, following a two-year Middle Years Programme that is in accreditation. The school is accredited by the Italian Ministry of Education (MIM) and its Early Years, Primary, Middle, and High School programs are state-recognized. Language certifications are available in Cambridge English, DELE for Spanish, and HSK for Chinese.

Student Teacher Ratio
Average class size is 15 students.

Higher Education Progression
IB Diploma graduates have access to universities in Italy and abroad; the Diploma is internationally recognized by prestigious universities. The Diploma Programme prepares students for success in higher education and beyond. The school supports university pathways with guidance through conferences, open days, and dedicated counseling to help students choose their higher education routes.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school uses a House Point System with four houses—Quicksilvers, Acrobats, Druids and Brave Hearts—dividing students across all year levels. Belonging to a house binds and unites students as they work to earn points for their house. Positive reinforcement is used, with monthly General Assembly merit certificates recognizing attitude, effort or achievements. Sports Day celebrates house competition and strengthens community spirit.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Inclusion is an ongoing commitment to creating a school environment where every student feels welcomed, heard, and free to express their individuality—fostering real opportunities for participation and success for all.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
English is the primary language of instruction across Early Years to High School. Students have the opportunity to study Chinese and Spanish, expanding their linguistic and cultural horizons. Language proficiency is officially certified.

Mental Wellbeing
The Three-Year Educational Offer Plan (PTOF) includes the promotion of students' well-being. The House Point System and associated recognition contribute to positive wellbeing by reinforcing belonging and achievement.

Safeguarding
Whistleblowing Regulation is in place, with Annex 1 Reporting Model and Annex 2 Privacy Policy.
Parent Experience

History
The Smiling International School of Ferrara was established in 1998. The school operates across two campuses, Campus Porta Mare and Campus Roversella, in Ferrara. It offers a continuous educational pathway from Early Years to age 17–18, including a four-year high school program (Liceo Quadriennale) and International Baccalaureate Diploma Programmes. English is the primary language of instruction across all levels, with Chinese and Spanish also offered. The school is officially accredited by the Italian Ministry of Education (MIM); Early Years, Primary, Middle, and High School programs are state-recognized, and the four-year Linguistic High School awards the Italian diploma di Maturità.

Community
Smiling International School hosts community events such as the Smiling Party, an annual gathering to celebrate the start of the school year and welcome new families, and the Early Years' Coffee Morning in September to welcome new children and their parents and to welcome back returning students.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The school operates on two Ferrara campuses: Palazzo Gulinelli on Corso d'Este I and the Corso Porta Mare Campus. Palazzo Gulinelli preserves Renaissance charm with frescoed ceilings, grand staircases, spacious rooms, and a 2,100-square-metre private garden; it also hosts Smiling Loft Apartments on the top floor for university students. The campuses feature large gardens, a kitchen with canteen, a gym, and computer labs to support daily learning. The Porta Mare Campus is a renovated former monastery with two spacious gardens that enhance learning in Early Years and the first years of Primary. The school's facilities are complemented by modern residential options on the Palazzo Gulinelli site.

Sports Facilities
Palazzo Gulinelli and Porta Mare Campus both include a gym and large gardens. The Palazzo Gulinelli building combines historic architecture with modern learning spaces suitable for physical education. Basketball and Mini Basketball classes are among the after-school offerings, with Sports Dance also available. These facilities support a broad range of physical activities at both campuses.

Academic Facilities
English is the primary language of instruction across all levels, with Chinese and Spanish offered as additional languages. Porta Mare Campus is a renovated former monastery with two spacious gardens and serves Early Years and lower Primary, while Palazzo Gulinelli houses other levels and includes a 2,100-square-metre private garden. Facilities include a kitchen with canteen, a gym, and computer labs to support daily teaching and learning. Smiling Loft Apartments occupy the top floor of Palazzo Gulinelli to accommodate university students. The school is Italian Ministry of Education accredited and offers the four-year linguistic high school diploma and International Baccalaureate Programmes.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Extra-curricular activities are offered at both Porta Mare and Roversella campuses after the school day. Basketball and Mini Basketball classes, Sports Dance, Digital Painting and Watercolor are among the activities available. English language courses with Cambridge English Qualifications are offered, with exams and preparation available to external students. Chinese language courses are also available at Via Roversella, with levels from beginner to advanced (HSK 1–5). Courses run from October to May.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
Smiling International School offers a wide range of curricular and extracurricular activities and introduces new educational programs each year to help learners develop interdisciplinary and core skills. The school provides a continuous and coherent educational pathway from Early Years through to age 17–18, including a four-year high school program (Liceo Quadriennale) and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Students can join the pathway at any stage and work on a true-life project that prepares them to become responsible, engaged global citizens. The focus is on developing critical thinking, curiosity, and the ability to adapt to change in a changing world.

Arts & Creative
Extra Activities include Basketball and Mini Basketball, Sports Dance, Digital Painting and Watercolor. These activities are offered after school at both Porta Mare and Roversella campuses. Summer Camp features music, art, and dance, providing creative outlets during the summer. The program supports students in expressing creativity and collaborating with peers.

Cultural & Language
English is the primary language of instruction across all levels. Students have the opportunity to study Chinese and Spanish, expanding linguistic and cultural horizons. International language certifications in English, Spanish, and Chinese unlock future opportunities. English courses prepare students for Cambridge English Qualifications as an Official Preparation Centre, with courses taught by native English teachers and running October to May; Chinese courses run October to May with levels including HSK 1–2, 3, and 4–5.

Social & Hobbies
Smiling International School offers after-school extra-curricular activities at the end of the school day, allowing students to pursue their passions. Extra Activities include Basketball and Mini Basketball, Sports Dance, Digital Painting, and Watercolor. English and Chinese language courses are available, with some courses open to external students. The activities are offered at both Porta Mare and Roversella campuses.

Community & Service
Community events bring together students, parents, and teachers for school life. The annual Smiling Party brings together the community to celebrate the start of a new school year, and the Early Years coffee morning welcomes new families. Orientation Week is organized to connect 10th–12th graders with representatives from Italian and international universities, and the school supports entrance tests with mock exams and letters of reference.

Leadership & Professional
Smiling International School uses a House Point System. Students are divided into four houses—Quicksilvers, Acrobats, Druids, or Brave Hearts—during a ceremony that develops belonging and teamwork. Students accumulate points for their house through daily effort and behavior, and monthly General Assemblies recognize merit with certificates. Sports Day concludes the year with the House Cup awarded to the leading team.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
An internal canteen serves meals prepared in-house by skilled chefs, with ingredients sourced from local suppliers. Menus are published and allergen lists are available for families to consult. The nutrition page emphasizes healthy, varied diets that support learning, with meals served Monday to Friday in bright canteens. Smiling Summer Camp also provides fresh, balanced, and tasty dishes as part of the program.
Languages

Language Provision
The school uses English as the primary language of instruction across Early Years to High School, with Italian also taught and used in the curriculum (including the 4-year Linguistic High School that awards the Italian diploma di maturità). Students may study Chinese and Spanish as additional languages, with language proficiency officially certified.

Bilingual Teaching
The school teaches in English and Italian.

Immersion Programs
A bilingual Italian–English program integrates both languages into daily activities.
Reputation

Awards
null

Accreditations
The school is officially accredited by the Italian Ministry of Education (MIM). Early Years, Primary, Middle, and High School programs are state-recognized, with oversight beyond that of many international schools. The four-year Linguistic High School awards the Italian diploma di Maturità. Language certifications in English, Spanish, and Chinese are internationally recognized through the school.
Admissions

Admissions
1. Express your Interest. Families interested in receiving more information can fill out the ENQUIRY FORM. The Enquiry Form initiates the admissions process and enables the Admissions Department to provide the requested information. The form submission starts the next steps in the journey toward enrollment. 2. School Tour and Interview. A member of the Admission Department will contact the family to provide the requested information and arrange a meeting at school. If needed, the meeting can be held online. The tour provides an opportunity to explore spaces and gain a first-hand understanding of Smiling's educational approach, while the interview helps the school understand the family's needs. 3. Application Form. Following the meeting and school tour, an enrolment form will be sent to the family by email. The school staff will be available for any additional questions. 4. Entry Acceptance. The School Office and Direction reserves the right to accept or reject the application based on the availability of places in the relevant class and the correct and complete reception of all required documents. Once the application has been accepted and validated by SIS, enrolment is considered completed on receipt of the Admission & Enrolment Fee. The process is finalized once the fee is received.
School Events
The school has not added events
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