One in six of the world’s population is currently a learner of English and ¾ of these learn English as a foreign language (EFL). However, many governments around the world are now seeing a bilingual approach to education as a more effective way of preparing young people to meet the challenges of studying and working in an increasingly multilingual and integrated world.  

WHAT IS BILINGUAL EDUCATION, ITALY?

Bilingual Education, Italy is a Pilot Project that aims to radically enhance the learning of English in Italian state schools by teaching part of the curriculum through English.

It is supported by a joint agreement between the Italian Ministry of Education, University and Research (MIUR - Direzione Generale per gli Ordinamenti e per l’ Autonomia Scolastica), the Lombardy Regional Education Authority (USR Lombardia), and the British Council.

Bilingual Education, Italy is inspired by a pilot project in Spain (‘Bilingual Schools, Spain’). See British Council Spain website for more information.

Ultimately, Bilingual Education, Italy aims to provide young people in Italian state school education with the very high level of English language skills demanded in an increasingly globalised labour market.

WHAT IS THE BACKGROUND TO THE PROJECT?

A Feasibility Study was conducted in early 2009 in twelve state schools in Lombardy, Umbria and Sardinia, under the direction of the British Council and with the support of the Ministry of Education and regional education authorities. The feasibility study found that the schools surveyed had both the willingness and capacity to begin a Bilingual Education project.”

WHAT STAGE IS THE PROJECT AT?

The Pilot Project began in six schools in Lombardy in September 2010, and will run for six years in the first instance. Other schools in Lombardy may be selected to join the project in subsequent years.

The project has been implemented under the authority of USR Lombardia, is consistent with the regulations for primary school education as published by the Italian Ministry of Education, and is run with the collaboration of the British Council. If you are interested in your school getting involved, you need to contact your local Ufficio Scolastico.