When you step onto the campus of ICS Milan International School, you immediately sense a world where education is more than just academic achievement—it’s about shaping the global citizens of tomorrow. For Antonia Giovanazzi, Executive Principal at ICS Milan, this mission is personal. “Our goal is to prepare each student not just for exams, but for life,” she says with a smile that reflects her deep commitment.
The school’s mission is clear and compelling: to provide a broad-based education that challenges and inspires every student. English is the primary language of instruction, and the school caters to a wide range of student abilities. “We believe in creating an environment where students can think creatively and critically,” Antonia explains, “because these are the skills that will enable them to flourish not just academically, but in every aspect of their lives.”
Since 2017, ICS Milan has grown significantly. The opening of the Symbiosis campus, a state-of-the-art facility, marked a milestone in this expansion. It complements the school’s two other Early Years and Primary sites, bringing a sense of unity and purpose to the entire community. ICS Milan now proudly offers a comprehensive International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme, including the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP), as well as the Cambridge IGCSE. “We’ve built a team of dedicated educators from around the world,” Antonia notes, “who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to our students.”
The school’s growth isn’t just in numbers. It has also developed a collaborative and distributed leadership structure, which not only supports the professional growth of staff but also ensures tailored support for students, teachers, and parents alike.
As part of the Globeducate network, ICS Milan benefits from being connected to over 60 bilingual and international schools across 11 countries. This global perspective enriches both students and staff. Students participate in global events such as the Academic Olympics, Sport and Music Olympics, Student Leadership and Model United Nations (MUN), and various art and eco events. Meanwhile, staff members enjoy access to a wide range of professional learning opportunities, teacher networks, and resources that enhance their teaching and well-being.
“We are not just educating students; we are shaping the leaders of tomorrow,” Antonia shares, her passion for education evident in every word. At ICS Milan, the commitment to developing well-rounded, confident individuals who are ready to face the world is not just a goal—it’s a reality.
Nurturing Minds Across Milan
ICS Milan isn’t just a place where students learn; it’s a community spread across three distinct campuses, each thoughtfully crafted to enrich the educational journey in its own unique way. These campuses—Symbiosis, Colletta, and Tenca—are more than just buildings; they are vibrant spaces where innovation, creativity, and growth are at the forefront.
At the heart of the school’s modern educational approach is ICS Symbiosis, a campus that embodies the spirit of 21st-century learning. Walking through its halls, you can see technology seamlessly integrated into the classroom experience. “Our technology-enhanced classrooms are designed to inspire innovative teaching methods,” says Antonia. The campus also boasts outdoor play areas, a gym, and a swimming pool, encouraging students to stay active and build social connections. Specialized spaces, including a theatre, science labs, art studios, and music rooms, provide students with the tools they need to explore a wide range of interests and talents.
For the youngest learners, ICS Colletta offers a warm and nurturing environment where early childhood development is the focus. The campus is designed with sensory play areas and flexible classrooms that can adapt to different teaching styles and group activities. “At Colletta, we emphasize creating spaces where young children can thrive, both socially and academically,” Antonia explains. This approach ensures that every child feels supported and engaged from the very start of their educational journey.
Located in the heart of the city, ICS Tenca caters to early years and primary education with an emphasis on accessibility and advanced resources. The campus is equipped with laboratories, a gym, a library, and two small gardens that offer a peaceful retreat in the bustling city center. “Tenca is all about blending learning with exploration,” Antonia notes. “We want our students to have the best of both worlds—a rigorous academic foundation and the freedom to explore their interests.”
Each ICS Milan campus is more than just a school—it’s a carefully curated environment where students are encouraged to grow, explore, and succeed. “We design our campuses to meet the specific needs of our students,” says Antonia, “because we believe that the right environment is key to unlocking each student’s potential.”
Where Design Thinking Meets STEAM
At ICS Milan, the future isn’t merely a topic of discussion; it’s a focal point of active preparation. Through an innovative teaching approach centered around Design Thinking and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Maths), ICS Milan is equipping students with the skills to solve problems that have yet to be imagined and to excel in careers that do not yet exist.
“Our focus is on teaching students not just what to learn, but how to learn,” says Antonia. This means encouraging students to ask questions, experiment, and create, giving them the tools to navigate an ever-changing world with confidence. The school’s approach isn’t just about imparting knowledge; it’s about fostering a mindset that values curiosity and adaptability.
This philosophy aligns perfectly with ICS Milan’s mission to provide a rich, creative, and well-balanced educational experience. While the school offers Italian educational options, it also ensures that students retain and appreciate their cultural and linguistic identity. “We take a highly reflective and adaptive approach to learning,” Antonia explains. “Our curriculum is fully integrated, supporting the development of modern citizens who can express themselves and realize their potential.”
Experiential learning is at the core of the ICS Milan experience, and it’s tailored to match the developmental stages of the students. For the youngest learners, this means play-based learning, hands-on projects, and activities like storytelling and dramatization. As students move into Middle School, the focus shifts to problem-based learning, collaborative group work, and service learning. “By the time our students reach High School, they are ready to take on active roles in collaborative projects with scientific, design, and technology companies,” Antonia notes. High School students also engage in service and community projects, both locally and as far afield as Kenya, deepening their understanding of the world and their place in it.
Debating is another key element of student development across all phases of the school, helping to sharpen critical thinking and build confidence. “We believe in giving students a voice,” Antonia says, “and debating is a powerful way to help them articulate their ideas and stand by their convictions.”
To support this innovative approach, each ICS Milan campus features bespoke libraries and specialized maker spaces and design labs. These facilities are tailored to the specific needs of different age groups, providing students with the resources they need to fully embrace their creativity. At the Symbiosis campus, in addition to science labs, a dedicated STEM lab and Space Lab have been established. “Our Space Lab allows students to participate in space project collaborations with other schools across the Globeducate network,” Antonia shares, her enthusiasm evident.
Bridging Cultures Through Education
One of the most distinctive features of ICS Milan is its unique blend of international education with deep cultural roots. The school’s commitment to connecting its STEAM approach with real-life projects and collaborations sets it apart. But there’s another aspect that truly distinguishes ICS Milan—its Paritaria status.
“We are the only international school in Milan with Paritaria status throughout the school,” says Antonia. This status allows Italian students to enjoy a full international programme while maintaining their cultural and linguistic heritage. It’s a blend that offers continuity in learning and provides students with a wide array of options after they turn 18, whether they choose to pursue higher education in Italy or abroad.
At ICS Milan, the curriculum is thoughtfully designed to cater to students at every educational level. For the youngest learners in Nursery, the school follows the British Early Years Foundation Stage, laying the groundwork for lifelong learning. As students progress to Preschool and beyond, they are introduced to the Primary Years Programme (PYP). “This year marks the beginning of our implementation of the PYP,” Antonia shares. “The programme is all about fostering a love of learning and developing students’ intellectual, personal, emotional, and social skills.”
The Middle Years Programme (MYP) of the International Baccalaureate takes center stage for students in Middle School, offering a challenging and balanced curriculum that prepares them for the next phase of their education. For students aged 14 to 16, ICS Milan offers the IGCSE curriculum, a globally recognized academic qualification. “The IGCSE is rigorous and challenging, covering a wide range of subjects from sciences to humanities,” Antonia notes. This curriculum provides a solid foundation for further education and is designed to be both comprehensive and engaging.
As students reach the final years of their schooling (ages 17 to 18), they embark on the IB Diploma Programme, a prestigious qualification recognized by universities around the world. “Our curriculum adheres to high international standards,” Antonia explains, “and it’s designed to prepare students for a rapidly changing world.” The interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary nature of the programme ensures that all core subjects are integrated, providing a holistic educational experience.
At ICS Milan, the emphasis on learning isn’t just on what happens in the classroom. The school ensures that students are well-versed in both English and Italian, dedicating a percentage of time each week to language and culture programmes. This bilingual approach not only meets national requirements but also reinforces the school’s commitment to nurturing global citizens who are firmly rooted in their cultural identities.
Building a Future-Ready Approach
At ICS Milan, technology isn’t just an add-on—it’s a vital part of the learning experience. In today’s fast-paced world, staying connected and being able to adapt to new tools is essential, and ICS Milan is at the forefront of integrating these capabilities into everyday education.
The school utilizes a range of digital platforms like Microsoft TEAMS, Toddle, 21st Century Tech, ISAMS, Tapestry, and SeeSaw to bridge the gap between students, teachers, and parents. These platforms create a seamless communication network, allowing everyone to stay informed and engaged, whether it’s about upcoming assignments, school events, or personalized feedback. “Our goal is to ensure that the entire school community is connected,” explains Antonia. “These tools help us maintain that connection and enhance the learning experience.”
For students, personal devices are a gateway to a world of knowledge. Primary students are equipped with Apple iPads, while Secondary students use PCs, enabling them to access their work and receive feedback no matter where they are. This flexibility is more than just a convenience; it’s a way to cultivate independence and self-directed learning. “Having access to their work from anywhere helps our students develop critical skills like time management and responsibility,” says Antonia.
The use of cloud-based resources is another key element in ICS Milan’s tech-savvy approach. Teachers can share curated content and multimedia resources effortlessly, making learning more dynamic and interactive. The cloud also ensures that students’ work is securely saved and accessible, facilitating easy collaboration on projects and assignments. This not only supports academic growth but also prepares students for a future where digital literacy is paramount.
ICS Milan’s commitment to integrating technology into education goes beyond simply using the latest gadgets. It’s about equipping students with the skills and experiences they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. As Antonia puts it, “Technology is a crucial part of our mission to prepare students for the future. We want them to be confident and capable in using the tools that will shape their lives and careers.”
Professional Development and Student Engagement
Professional development is a cornerstone of the ICS Milan’s approach, ensuring that staff members are continuously upskilled and equipped with the tools they need to thrive in their roles. The school’s professional development programme is designed to be comprehensive and inclusive. “We make sure that every staff member has access to training, whether it’s through accredited bodies or in-house skill-sharing sessions,” explains Antonia. This commitment to ongoing learning means that teachers are not only experts in their fields but are also well-versed in the latest curricula and teaching methodologies. ICS Milan also places a strong emphasis on safeguarding and technology training, ensuring that staff can carry out their duties with confidence and security. “Our focus on safeguarding and technology is crucial,” Antonia notes. “It’s about giving our staff the confidence to create a safe and effective learning environment.”
Beyond the classroom, ICS Milan is involved in a variety of projects that connect students with the wider world. From fashion sustainability awareness with Golden Goose to creative design collaborations with fashion brand Simonetta, the school provides unique opportunities for students to apply their learning in real-world contexts. Service projects with Camps International in Kenya, space satellite projects, AI working robot construction, and science research with IFOM are just a few examples of how ICS Milan encourages students to explore and innovate. These projects not only enrich the students’ educational experience but also foster a sense of responsibility and global citizenship.
Student engagement is another key focus at ICS Milan. The school employs a variety of methods to measure and enhance engagement, including surveys that gauge student interest in their subjects and other school activities. Observing live lessons also provides valuable insights into how students interact with the material and their peers. “Research shows a clear link between attendance and academic success, so we monitor this closely,” says Antonia. The school’s attention to attendance is a reflection of its commitment to ensuring that students are fully engaged and committed to their education.
Additionally, ICS Milan values the voices of its students. Through student councils in both Primary and Secondary, the school actively seeks feedback on the impact of teaching and learning. This Student Voice initiative is a vital part of the school’s approach, ensuring that students have a say in their educational journey. Parent and teacher surveys also contribute to this ongoing assessment, providing data and metrics that help the school identify areas for improvement.
Building a Foundation of Values
At ICS Milan, the values of inclusivity, care, and safety are more than just words—they are the guiding principles that shape every aspect of the school’s culture. From the youngest learners in Early Years to the emerging leaders in High School, these values are woven into the fabric of daily life at ICS Milan, creating a supportive and nurturing environment where every student can thrive.
“We believe that inclusivity, care, and safety are fundamental to creating a positive and effective learning environment,” says Antonia. “These values are reflected in everything we do, from our assemblies and PTA mission to our PSHE programme and house and community events.”
The school’s commitment to these values is evident in its approach to student behavior. The Behavior curriculum, which spans from Early Years through to High School, is designed to develop and embed these core values, ensuring that they become an integral part of each student’s character. This focus on positive behavior helps to create a school culture where respect, kindness, and responsibility are the norm.
To support the diverse needs of its students, ICS Milan has established a dedicated Learning Support department, led by a Learning Support Coordinator and staffed by a team of specialists. This department offers a range of support services, including one-on-one tutoring, small group interventions, and in-class group support. Whether a student is dealing with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, or other learning challenges, the Learning Support team works closely with families to provide tailored assistance that helps each student succeed.
In addition to academic support, ICS Milan also has a dedicated English as an Additional Language (EAL) department. This team provides language support for students transitioning to an English-language learning environment, helping them to build the language skills they need to fully engage with the curriculum and participate in school life.
Nurturing Global Citizens
In today’s interconnected world, ICS Milan recognizes the importance of cultivating global awareness, cultural competence, and social responsibility in its students. The school’s curriculum is designed to integrate global issues into everyday learning, helping students develop a deep understanding of topics such as climate change, human rights, global health, and economic inequality.
“Preparing students for the world beyond school means equipping them with the knowledge and skills to navigate complex global challenges,” explains Antonia. “At ICS Milan, we ensure that our students are not only academically prepared but also globally aware and socially responsible.”
One way the school promotes cultural competence is through additional language learning and cultural exchange programmes. By celebrating cultural diversity through international events, ICS Milan encourages students to appreciate and respect different cultures, fostering an environment of inclusivity and mutual understanding. The school’s service learning projects, Model United Nations (MUN) programme, and Advocacy and Student Leadership training further encourage civic engagement and social responsibility, empowering students to make a positive impact on their communities and the wider world.
Enhancing technological and digital literacy is also a key component of ICS Milan’s approach to education. The school’s participation in global collaborations, such as the Space Project and the Academic Olympics, helps students develop the skills and competencies needed to succeed in a digital world. These initiatives not only enhance students’ technical abilities but also foster collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills—essential qualities for the leaders of tomorrow.
Embracing the Future
With a focus on innovation and a commitment to providing an education that prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow, ICS Milan is excited to introduce new initiatives that will redefine the learning experience for its students.
One of the most significant developments on the horizon is the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the curriculum. AI is set to play a pivotal role across all school phases, particularly as part of the school’s STEAM agenda. “Our goal is to integrate AI responsibly and effectively into student learning,” says Antonia. “We’re not just teaching students about technology; we’re teaching them how to use it thoughtfully and ethically.”
In the Primary school, innovation is taking center stage with the introduction of new learning spaces designed to be at the forefront of educational environments. These spaces are more than just classrooms—they’re dynamic, interactive areas that encourage active, inquiry-based learning. Often referred to as ‘the third teacher,’ the environment plays a crucial role in shaping the educational experience, and ICS Milan is committed to creating spaces that inspire curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.
As part of the school’s ongoing commitment to innovation, the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) is being launched for Primary and Early Years students. This programme aligns perfectly with ICS Milan’s vision, mission, and values, offering a holistic, inquiry-based approach to learning that is grounded in a global perspective. The IB PYP will not only enhance the academic experience but also promote the development of well-rounded, globally minded students.
In the Secondary school, the focus remains on academic excellence, with a particular emphasis on reflective practice, computational thinking, and intellectual rigor. “We want our students to be critical thinkers, problem solvers, and innovators,” explains Giovanazzi. “Our curriculum is designed to challenge them, to push them to think deeply and creatively, and to prepare them for whatever the future holds.”
Above all, ICS Milan is dedicated to offering a curriculum that enables students to gain a breadth and depth of knowledge while flourishing intellectually, physically, emotionally, and ethically. The school’s approach is holistic, ensuring that every student is supported in their journey to become not just successful learners but also compassionate, responsible, and engaged citizens of the world.
As ICS Milan continues to innovate and evolve, its commitment to providing an exceptional education remains unwavering. By integrating AI, creating cutting-edge learning environments, and fostering a culture of excellence and inquiry, the school is paving the way for a future where its students can thrive in every aspect of their lives.
For More Info: https://www.icsmilan.com/
Antonia Giovanazzi, Executive Principal, Antonia Giovanazzi, Executive Principal
Antonia Giovanazzi joined Globeducate in July 2020, with a mission to elevate ICS Milan as the top choice for IB education in Milan. Under her leadership, the school has successfully implemented three IB programmes—PYP, MYP, and DP—along with the Cambridge IGCSE programme. Committed to inquiry-based, experiential learning, Antonia has enhanced the school’s offerings by appointing leaders in Performing Arts, STEM, and Art & Design, and forging partnerships with organizations like Lego Education and prominent design brands.
Before ICS Milan, Antonia was the Principal at The National Mathematics and Science College in the UK, where she significantly increased student placements at Oxbridge and Ivy League universities. Her career also includes roles such as Founding Vice Principal and Head of Secondary at Hartland International School in Dubai, and various leadership positions in UK schools.
With over 30 years of experience, Antonia has a proven track record in developing innovative teaching practices, particularly through a STEAM agenda. A graduate of Edinburgh University, she has worked across multiple countries, including the UAE, Asia, the USA, France, and Italy, impacting students and teachers from over 56 nationalities.