With a clear majority of families being Italian, St Louis Archinto suits families looking to integrate with Italian life and culture. Situated in a beautiful historic building in the heart of Milan, this is a school that feels grown up and cultured, where a positive attitude and strong work ethic are nurtured alongside academic excellence.
Why read our school review?
Unlike other websites, schools can't pay to be included in The Good Schools Guide. This means our review of this school is independent, critical and fair, and written with parents' best interests at heart.
Unlock to accessOverview
- Student numbers
- 486
- Curricula
- International
- British
- SEN provision
- SEN considered case by case
- Religion
- Non-denominational
- Fees
- 24,300€ - 25,460€
- Ownership
- Inspired Group
- Linked schools
Head of school
Executive principal and director of St Louis Schools
Kathy Crewe-Read
Since 2024, Kathy Crewe-Read BSc PGCE. An experienced educator with 20 years in leadership roles in British independent schools, Kathy brings her fresh, approachable style to St Louis. Following on from a long-standing and well-respected principal,
Unlock this review instantly
Learn what pupils and parents really think of this school, along with our expert opinion on the headteacher’s leadership style, the school’s academic results and facilities, the focus on pastoral care, and the range of extra-curricular activities.
Entrance
Around 90 per cent join from St Louis Caviglia and Colonna campuses, ensuring a seamless transition from middle to high school. Year 10 students from both campuses are mixed together, creating fresh opportunities to make friends and build a broader
Exit
Two part-time university counsellors praised by parents, although some feel they’re stretched thin given the number of students and it’s not unusual for families to use the services of an independent consultant. One counsellor focuses on US
Latest results
In 2024, IB average of 36, significantly above the global average of 30. Nineteen per cent of students achieved a 40 or above. For IGCSE 48 per cent A*/A and 95 per cent achieved A-C.
Teaching & learning
The school day runs with just one 20-minute break - a schedule that feels intense but fosters a focused and productive atmosphere. Students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning and parents feel the school ‘strikes a balance between
- Curricula & qualifications
- International - International Baccalaureate (Diploma)
- British - International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE)
- Bilingual programmes
- Spanish/English
Learning support & SEN
Positive comments regarding SENCo on campus. Students with dyslexia offered slides prior to classes and recommended study guides. Extra time in exams is standard too, along with the use of a computer for those students who may struggle with writing.
Language support
Students must be proficient in English at point of admission.
Arts & extracurricular
While the school day will appear relatively short for those new to Italy, the arts and extra-curricular activities offer plenty of opportunities for students to engage in the afternoons. Creativity thrives in the CAS clubs, which include life
Sport
Despite lacking dedicated sports facilities, apart from an impressive gym (complete with its own ancient Roman road), the school is trying to embed sport into its culture and spirit. This is not easy in a country where traditionally students join
Ethos & heritage
A relatively young school, originally a family-run venture, it joined the Inspired Group in 2016, gaining access to best practices in recruitment, facilities and overall development. The transformation has strengthened its infrastructure while
Pastoral care, inclusivity & discipline
Inclusivity is a core value at the school, woven into both daily life and special projects. A standout initiative is a collaboration between students and the STEAM club to create an interactive map celebrating the customs and cultures of every
Classroom & community
The school is working to rebuild its sense of community and spirit, which many parents felt was diminished during COVID. While some Italian families view the school primarily as an academic institution, the leadership is actively implementing events,
- School year
- September – June, with three terms
- School hours
- 8:00am – 1:50pm
- Student nationalities
- 68% Italian
- Student nationalities - total
- 37
- Uniform requirements
- Yes
Money matters
Milan is one of the most expensive cities in Italy and international school fees reflect this. Fees are considered high but are comparable to other international schools in Milan.
- Annual fee range
- 24,300€ - 25,460€
- Fee information
- Application fee (non-refundable): 3,000€
Enrolment fee (annual): 1,800€
The last word
With a clear majority of families being Italian, St Louis Archinto suits families looking to integrate with Italian life and culture. Situated in a beautiful historic building in the heart of Milan, this is a school that feels grown up and cultured,
Accreditations, inspections & memberships
- Accreditations/Inspections
- Authorised by International Baccalaureate Organization (not to be confused as an inspection or accreditation agency)
- Memberships
- COBIS