Istituto Santa Maria

Founded in 1889 and inspired by the Marianist tradition, the school focuses on the integral education of the person, addressing cognitive, affective, relational, creative, ethical, and spiritual dimensions. Its pedagogy is built on five principles: educating in faith and openness to truth, providing quality integral education, fostering a "family spirit" through welcoming relationships, promoting service and justice, and embracing change through new methodologies. The school emphasizes critical thinking, individual responsibility, and collaboration within a serene, Christian-inspired environment.

The school offers a comprehensive educational pathway starting from the Asilo Nido (3-24 months) and Scuola dell'Infanzia (3-5 years). The primary and secondary levels follow the Cambridge International curriculum, while the high school (Licei) offers specialized tracks including the Liceo Classico Cambridge, Liceo Scientifico Cambridge, and Liceo Scientifico Sportivo. The curriculum integrates core academic subjects with digital competencies, scientific research, and civic education, preparing students for the Italian state exams (Maturità).

The school provides comprehensive support services, including tutoring and academic orientation to guide students through their educational paths. A dedicated pastoral care service, led by Marianist religious and faculty, offers individual and group support for students' personal and spiritual growth. Furthermore, a professional psychotherapist is available on-site to provide psychological counseling for students facing challenges related to school, family, or peer relationships, as well as support for parents.

The school manages admissions through a formal process requiring interested families to contact the administration. Prospective families can request information regarding specific sectors—ranging from the nursery to the various high school tracks—via an online form or by contacting the school office directly. A "patto di corresponsabilità educativa" (educational co-responsibility agreement) between the school and families serves as a foundational element of the enrollment process.

The school operates on a schedule that includes daily activities from Monday to Saturday, with specific office hours for the secretariat and administration. The academic year concludes with various end-of-year events, performances, and assessments, typically occurring in June. Parents are kept informed of specific academic deadlines, such as textbook updates, through official school communications.

The campus features a variety of specialized facilities, including a 100-seat Aula Magna, a recently renovated theater with professional acoustic and lighting systems, and a historic church. Scientific and technical resources include a well-equipped science laboratory with microscopes, two computer labs, and a rich science museum. Sports facilities comprise a swimming pool, multiple gymnasiums, and synthetic turf fields for various sports, complemented by a school canteen that provides nutritionally balanced meals.

The school places significant importance on sports as a formative tool, offering a wide range of activities through its multifunctional sports center. Students can participate in swimming, water polo, basketball, volleyball, dance, karate, and various field sports like soccer and tennis. Additionally, the school promotes artistic and cultural engagement through activities such as theater courses and performances.