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Smiling International School

Founded 1998

Updated July 2026

2–18Ages
450Students
For-profitOwnership

Curriculum

Accreditations

Languages

English flagEnglishMandarin flagMandarinSpanish flagSpanish

Smiling International School is a private, bilingual institution in the Emilia-Romagna region providing international education to students aged 2 to 18. It offers a continuous educational pathway that prepares students for both Italian and international university systems.

Teaching approach

The school aims to foster a global perspective, encouraging students to embrace differences, think critically, and face change with confidence. It emphasizes the development of responsible and engaged global citizens who are prepared to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Programmes

The school provides a comprehensive curriculum from Early Years through to High School, with English as the primary language of instruction. It offers a 4-year Linguistic High School program leading to the Italian Maturità, as well as the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. Students may also study Chinese and Spanish, with opportunities to earn official language certifications based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Student support

EAL support
Unknown
Learning support
Unknown

Learning support

The school designates specific staff members as special needs references to support students within the learning environment. The pedagogical approach is designed to help students develop both interdisciplinary and core skills to ensure their success.

Frequently asked questions(4)
What curriculum does Smiling International School offer?
Smiling International School offers IB Diploma.
What ages does Smiling International School teach?
Smiling International School enrolls students aged 2 to 18.
What accreditations does Smiling International School hold?
Smiling International School holds accreditations including IB.
Where is Smiling International School located?
Smiling International School is an international school in Ferrara, Italy.

Tuition & fees

No published fee schedule was found for this school.

Admissions

Prospective families are invited to contact the admissions office or sign up for open days to begin the application process. The school welcomes students to join its educational pathway at any stage of their development.

Facilities

Library

About the campus

The school operates across two campuses in Ferrara: Campus Porta Mare and Campus Roversella. The facilities are designed to support student well-being and growth, featuring specialized learning spaces, gardens, and areas for sports and arts.

  • Caterina AzziniPrincipal

    Caterina Azzini serves as the Principal of Smiling International School, where she focuses on the well-being, growth, and success of students. She emphasizes preparing students to face the complexities of the third millennium with confidence and responsibility.

  • Deborah AscaniEarly Years’ Coordinator

    Deborah Ascani has served as the Early Years’ Coordinator since 2017.

  • Francesca MancinoPedagogical Coordinator

    Francesca Mancino has served as the Pedagogical Coordinator since 2024.

  • Philippa WaterhouseEarly Years’ Coordinator English Teacher

    Philippa Waterhouse has been an Early Years’ Coordinator and English Teacher at the school since 2001.

  • Angela BarioniPrimary & Secondary School Coordinator Italian Teacher

    Angela Barioni has served as the Primary & Secondary School Coordinator and an Italian Teacher since 2012.

  • Manuela PaltrinieriHigh School Coordinator History & Philosophy Teacher

    Manuela Paltrinieri has served as the High School Coordinator and a History & Philosophy Teacher since 2013.

  • Eleonora MorelliSmiling IB Diploma Programme Coordinator English A Language & Literature Teacher

    Eleonora Morelli has served as the Smiling IB Diploma Programme Coordinator and an English A Language & Literature Teacher since 2016.