International School of Como

Since August 2024, Philippa Smithson BA MEd, who has three decades of education experience. She was previously head of The Royal School in Haslemere, UK and has also been deputy head (teaching and learning) at Dunottar School in Reigate, Surrey and

Rolling admissions, space permitting. Two years’ school reports and teacher recommendations, plus interview. Grade 12 applicants complete a CAT4 assessment. Admissions are ‘very welcoming and make it very easy,’ say parents - a welcome contrast to

As you might expect from an international cohort, each year university destinations span the globe. In 2025, all graduates who went to university achieved their first choice, staying in Italy (eg Istituto Europeo di Design, Politecnico di Milano,

In 2025, average IBDP score of 34 (compared to worldwide score of 30). Half achieved the bilingual diploma.

This is the only IB-authorised school in the Como area, offering the primary and middle years programmes before leading into the diploma. Italian students can integrate this with the Italian national curriculum and sit the Esami di idoneità alla

Refreshingly large learning support room with two dedicated staff members supporting children with a range of needs including dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia etc. Willing to accommodate children with one-to-one needs and shadow teachers. A speech

A dedicated teacher works with non-native English speakers, of which there are plenty. School is happy to assimilate children, especially younger ones, who need that extra support. Children equally inclusive: ‘My friend doesn’t speak very good

A small but spirited performing arts programme which punches above its weight. An upcoming production of Alice on the Wall (Alice in Wonderland crossed with Pink Floyd) sounded brilliant - roll on all budding musicians, actors, light and sound

No pretences here. Sport is restricted by both campus (one small netted area for football and an indoor multi-use space) and lack of local competition. Two Astro-Turf pitches are currently under construction and in the meantime, they make use of an

Students tell us: ‘When you walk into a classroom, the teachers say hello!’ ‘I feel valued by all my teachers, and I really feel they care how I am that day.’ They see school as a safe, caring and happy space, for which they are grateful. Issues are

Delightful students; confident and articulate and very happy to chat with us! Plenty of bright smiling faces…worn with cool trainers. Despite the school uniform students still manage to carry off that understated look that reflects the part of Europe

‘It’s not a cheap school!’ ‘It’s expensive, but the money is really worth it.’ No complaints. Corporate fees available.

To turn a well-used idiom on its head, all that is gold does not glitter. This unpretentious, happy school is sought out by those attracted to life in a delightful part of Italy while wanting to keep the experience real. International School of Como