Homeschooling in Italy is a legal and increasingly popular educational choice for families, including expatriates. Here’s an overview of the rules and regulations governing homeschooling in Italy:
Legal Framework
Legality: Homeschooling is legal in Italy, supported by the Italian Constitution, which guarantees the right to education. Parents have the option to educate their children at home rather than sending them to traditional schools.
Compulsory Education: Education is compulsory for children aged 6 to 16. This means that homeschooled children must follow the same educational standards as those in public schools.
Requirements for Homeschooling
Annual Notification: Parents must notify the local school authorities (dirigenti scolastici) of their intent to homeschool each year. This notification should include a declaration of their capacity to provide education.
Demonstrating Capacity:
Technical Capacity: Parents must show that they have completed a level of education beyond that of the children they are teaching.
Economic Capacity: Parents need to demonstrate that they have the financial means to support their homeschooling efforts. However, there are no strict requirements for documentation, and self-declaration is often sufficient.
Curriculum and Assessment:
Families must prepare a personal curriculum that aligns with the subjects taught in public schools.
Homeschooled students are required to take annual exams at a public or recognized private school (scuola paritaria) to assess their progress and ensure they meet educational standards.
Exams: The exams typically occur in June, and parents must submit a written request for these assessments along with their curriculum to the school authorities for approval in March or April.
Support and Resources
While homeschooling is legal, it is not widely practiced in Italy, and families may face challenges such as lack of support from local schools.
Various homeschooling support groups and networks exist, providing resources, community support, and advocacy for homeschooling families in Italy.
Conclusion
Homeschooling in Italy offers a viable alternative to traditional education, allowing families flexibility and control over their children’s learning. However, it comes with specific responsibilities, including annual notifications, curriculum development, and assessments. Families considering this option should familiarize themselves with the legal requirements and seek out local resources to support their homeschooling journey.