For many international and Italian families in Milan, choosing the right school is no longer just about language or location—it’s about future opportunities. Bilingual education, once considered a niche option, is increasingly seen as a pathway to broader university access and international opportunities.
The Bilingual European School (BES), part of the Globeducate network, offers a structured bilingual curriculum and a Double Diploma programme designed to prepare students for both Italian and international academic systems.
We spoke with Head of School Francesco Masetti Placci and Deputy Head Nicole Scalabrin to clarify what bilingual education really means in practice—and how families should evaluate it.
What defines a strong bilingual school today?
Francesco Masetti Placci (FP): A strong bilingual school is not simply delivering lessons in two languages. It integrates both languages into the learning process so that students think, analyze, and express themselves naturally in both.
At BES, the curriculum combines Italian academic standards with international frameworks, ensuring students meet national requirements while developing a broader, global perspective.
How is the curriculum structured at BES?
Nicole Scalabrin (NS): Our model is approximately 50% Italian and 50% English across subjects. This balance is consistent throughout the educational journey, from early years through high school.
In primary school, we integrate the Italian Ministry curriculum with the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP), which focuses on inquiry-based learning and conceptual understanding.
This structure allows students to develop both academic rigor and adaptability. The academic structure remains aligned with the Italian system, enriched through international methodologies.
What are the measurable benefits of bilingual education?
NS: Beyond language proficiency, bilingual education supports cognitive flexibility, problem-solving, and executive function skills.
Students learn to shift between systems of thinking, which improves their ability to process complex information and adapt to new environments—skills that are increasingly valued in both academic and professional contexts.
What is the Double Diploma, and how does it work?
FP: The Double Diploma is a four-year programme where students follow the Italian Scientific High School Diploma (Applied Sciences), with the option to also earn the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), a Canadian qualification recognised by universities internationally.
Students complete additional coursework in English aligned with the Canadian (Ontario) system alongside their Italian studies, allowing them to graduate with two recognised qualifications.
How does the Double Diploma influence university admissions?
FP: It expands access. Students can apply to universities in Italy, across Europe, and internationally using recognized credentials.
The OSSD, in particular, is recognised by universities in North America and internationally.
What should parents consider when evaluating a bilingual programme?
NS: Families should look at three factors:
● Consistency of language exposure: is it truly integrated or separated?
● Academic alignment: does it meet national and international standards?
● Long-term outcomes: university pathways and skill development
A bilingual programme should be coherent across all years, not just introduced at certain stages.
“We chose a bilingual pathway to keep both Italian roots and international options open and be able to access the best of the two worlds” — BES parent
How does BES support students across different age groups?
NS: We offer a continuous pathway from early childhood through high school, ensuring progression in both language and academic skills.
Early years focus on immersion and confidence. Middle school develops analytical thinking, and high school prepares students for exams, university applications, and independent learning.
What teaching approach underpins the BES model?
FP: We follow a constructivist approach. Students actively engage with content through projects, discussions, and problem-solving rather than passive memorization.
This method encourages autonomy and deeper understanding, which is essential in a bilingual environment.
What role does the Globeducate network play?
NS: Being part of Globeducate connects students to an international ecosystem of schools. They can participate in collaborative projects, exchanges, and global initiatives.
This reinforces the idea that education extends beyond the classroom.
How does the new BES campus enhance learning?
FP: The new campus is designed to support modern education, with flexible learning spaces and facilities that encourage collaboration and innovation.
The environment reflects how students learn today—through interaction, technology, and adaptability.
Is Bilingual Education Worth It?
Bilingual education requires commitment—from both schools and families—but the long-term benefits are increasingly clear. A well-structured programme can enhance cognitive development, expand university opportunities, and prepare students for an international environment.
For families living in Milan or relocating for work or family purposes, the key is not simply choosing a bilingual school, but understanding how that bilingualism is
implemented. Curriculum integration, academic outcomes, and global pathways should be central to the decision.
Schools like the Bilingual European School illustrate how a dual-language model can align with both Italian academic standards and international pathways, offering flexibility in an increasingly interconnected world.
Quick FAQ: What Families Often Ask
What is the difference between a bilingual and an international school?
Bilingual schools teach in two languages, often aligned with a national system; international schools typically follow one global curriculum in English.
How demanding is a Double Diploma programme?
It usually involves additional coursework or structured online components alongside the main curriculum. While it does require commitment, it is designed to be manageable and offers students a valuable opportunity to develop strong organizational skills, independence, and an international academic profile.
Can students switch to another system later?
Yes, but it depends on the curriculum and grade level—earlier transitions are generally easier.
What should families prioritise when choosing a school?
Families should consider key elements such as the curriculum, language exposure, university pathways, and—most importantly—the child’s learning style and overall wellbeing.
Choosing a school is not only about academic outcomes, but also about finding an environment where the child feels supported, confident, and able to thrive both personally and academically.
Families interested in learning more can explore Bilingual European School programmes or attend upcoming webinars on bilingual education and the Double Diploma, contact admissions@beschool.eu for more information.
Article by Easy Milano Editorial Staff
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