Home Away from Home: Embracing Life, Learning, and Culture in Milan with Rebecca Glover

For many international families, moving abroad is as much an emotional journey as it is an academic one. In this in-depth conversation, Rebecca Glover—Principal of the International School of Milan (ISM)—shares her personal journey of adapting to life in Italy alongside her visionary approach to international education. With a unique blend of UK leadership experience and a passion for creating welcoming communities, Rebecca offers invaluable insights for expat families navigating new cultural landscapes while seeking exceptional educational opportunities.

How has your experience adapting to life in Italy been, and what are some aspects of Italian culture that you’ve come to love the most?
Italy has a wonderful sense of community and appreciation for the small joys in life. The pace can be different from what I was used to, but I’ve come to appreciate the emphasis on relationships, family, and good food!

Milan is a vibrant city known for its rich history, fashion, and culture. What’s your favorite part about living in Milan?
Milan is an incredible city—it has an energy and sophistication that I love. The art, history, and food are all amazing, but what I appreciate most is the balance of work and lifestyle. There’s a real emphasis on enjoying life, whether through a family meal, a walk through the city, or a weekend exploring Italy’s beautiful landscapes.

Moving abroad can be a daunting experience for many families. What advice would you give to expat parents to help their children thrive in a new school and cultural environment?
Embrace the experience wholeheartedly! Encourage your children to be open-minded, get involved in school activities, and make new connections. It’s also important for parents to engage with the school community—build friendships, attend events, and be part of the journey.

As a TED speaker and marathon runner, you clearly value personal growth and resilience. How do you encourage these qualities in your students and staff, and how important is it for expat families to feel that sense of support and well-being in their new environment?
Resilience is a crucial skill, both in education and in life. As a marathon runner, I know that success comes from consistency, perseverance, and mental strength—qualities I encourage in our students. We integrate resilience-building into our curriculum, from growth mindset workshops to leadership challenges that push students outside their comfort zones. For expat families, well-being is equally important. Moving to a new country is exciting but also comes with challenges. We ensure that families feel part of our community from day one, offering transition support, parent engagement initiatives, and a school culture that feels like home.

You’re a proud parent, with one child at Cambridge University and another excelling in sports. How has your own experience as a parent influenced your approach to education and your leadership at ISM?
Being a parent has given me invaluable insight into the hopes and concerns of families. I understand the importance of academic challenge, but I also know that success is about much more than grades—it’s about confidence, resilience, and finding a passion. My approach to leadership is shaped by this perspective: I want every student at ISM to leave not just with outstanding results, but also with a strong sense of identity and purpose.

Rebecca, you’ve had such a remarkable career in education, from teaching to leading large schools in the UK. What inspired you to pursue a career in education, and what do you enjoy most about your role as a school leader?
Education has always been my passion. I firmly believe in the power of education to transform lives, and that belief has driven every step of my career. My own experiences as a student, as well as the incredible teachers who inspired me, reinforced my commitment to creating learning environments where students feel challenged, supported, and empowered. As a school leader, what I enjoy most is seeing young people grow in confidence and ambition. Witnessing a student discover their potential—whether academically, creatively, or in leadership—reminds me why this work is so meaningful. I also love the strategic element of school leadership: shaping a vision, bringing people together, and ensuring that every decision we make puts students at the centre.

You’ve held several leadership positions, including at Surbiton High School and one of the UK’s largest independent schools. How has your previous experience shaped your approach to leading the International School of Milan?
Each leadership role has given me new perspectives and honed my approach. At Surbiton High School and my previous headship, I saw firsthand how a strong school culture, combined with high expectations and a clear vision, leads to outstanding student outcomes. Those experiences reinforced my belief in a holistic approach—academic excellence should go hand in hand with student well-being, leadership development, and character education. At ISM, I’ve brought that same philosophy, but with an added focus on the unique needs of an international student body. ISM’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths, and my priority is ensuring every student feels a sense of belonging, challenge, and purpose.

ISM is known for its diverse and inclusive community. How do you ensure that every student feels supported and empowered to reach their full potential, particularly given the international mix of students?
Creating an inclusive culture is at the heart of ISM’s ethos. With students from so many different backgrounds, we place a strong emphasis on fostering a welcoming and supportive environment. Our pastoral care system ensures that every child is known as an individual, and our academic and well-being teams work closely with families to provide tailored support. We also celebrate diversity in meaningful ways—through our curriculum, student leadership opportunities, and international events that bring our community together. At ISM, students don’t just feel included; they feel valued and empowered.

You’ve achieved impressive results in student performance at your previous schools, including being recognized for outstanding value-added outcomes. What strategies or philosophies do you bring to ISM to continue this culture of academic excellence?
One of my key philosophies is that academic excellence is not just about results—it’s about inspiring a love of learning, fostering intellectual curiosity, and ensuring students have the tools to succeed beyond the classroom. At ISM, we focus on high expectations, exceptional teaching, and data-informed decision-making. We use student progress data to ensure every child is stretched and supported, and we invest heavily in teacher development so that our classrooms are places of inspiration. We also emphasize critical thinking and adaptability—skills that will serve students well in an ever-changing world.

What’s your vision for the future of the International School of Milan?
ISM is already a leading international school, but my vision is to further strengthen our reputation as a centre of excellence in global education. That means embracing innovative learning methodologies, integrating more real-world learning experiences, and continuing to invest in both student well-being and academic achievement. As technology and global challenges evolve, we must ensure that our students are prepared not just for exams, but for life.

Can you tell us more about how ISM supports expat students in their transition to life in Milan, and what makes the school stand out for families living abroad?
We understand that moving to a new country can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. At ISM, we offer a comprehensive support system for expat students and their families. From buddy programs that help new students settle in, to dedicated pastoral teams that provide academic and emotional support, we ensure every child feels at home. What sets ISM apart is our deep understanding of international education. We prepare students not just academically, but also socially and culturally, equipping them to thrive in any environment. We also recognise the importance of helping families integrate into the school community. Our Parent Association Board (PAB) plays a key role in connecting families, organizing social events, and ensuring parents feel engaged in school life. Regular coffee mornings, cultural events, and parent workshops create valuable opportunities for families to meet, share experiences, and build friendships. ISM is more than just a school—it’s a supportive community where families truly feel they belong.

As someone who’s passionate about health and resilience, how do you find the lifestyle in Italy aligns with your personal values?
Italy’s lifestyle naturally supports balance. The Mediterranean diet, the culture of walking, and the emphasis on quality over quantity all align with my approach to well-being. Even with a demanding job, I make time for running and personal growth, because I believe that as a leader, I have to model the values I encourage in others. Another aspect I love is the outdoor lifestyle—whether it’s enjoying a morning run, dining al fresco, or simply taking in the beauty of Italy’s landscapes. Being able to explore different cities, from the lakes in the north to the stunning coastline, adds an incredible richness to life here. It provides a sense of adventure and balance that complements the fast-paced nature of school leadership.

Beyond her professional achievements, Rebecca’s dynamic persona shines through in every aspect of her life. Our conversation with Rebecca Glover offers a refreshing blend of personal insight and professional expertise. Her reflections on adapting to Italian life, combined with her innovative approach to international education, provide valuable guidance for families embarking on their own journeys abroad.

Learn more about the International School of Milan