GIS The International School of Monza

GIS Monza embraces a holistic, student-centered approach to education. The community emphasizes collaboration, mutual respect, open communication, and supportive relationships, helping every member feel valued and empowered. As an IB World School, the school develops well-rounded, lifelong learners and supports them to thrive intellectually, socially, and emotionally. It is part of the GIS Group of International Schools Suisse, sharing a mission to provide local and international families with an international education that is broad, balanced and challenging. The school fosters curiosity, creativity and critical thinking, preparing students to engage with the world with confidence and empathy.

GIS Monza provides a limited level of support for students with mild-to-moderate learning difficulties. Admission decisions consider the level of support needed and may involve in-class or out-of-school support, typically at the family's cost. The school places a high value on multilingualism and provides English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision, with dedicated staff to support language acquisition. EAL includes a Beginner Programme with dedicated sessions to build vocabulary, and an Intermediate Programme with small-group and in-class support to help students access the curriculum. An exception to the open admission policy exists for students with identified learning or behavioral issues where additional support may be necessary on an individual basis.

English as an Additional Language is provided with dedicated staff to support learners. In IB settings all teachers are language teachers with a strong emphasis on language acquisition. The Beginner Programme offers sessions to build emergency vocabulary, moving onto phonics and reading, and acquiring vocabulary used within the unit of the class. The Intermediate Programme provides additional support with small-group work to refine spelling and grammar and to participate in class. Languages of instruction include English and Italian.

The wellbeing of our entire community is of utmost importance to the Leadership. We aim to maintain a supportive and happy place to be for our students, teachers and parents. Personal, Social and Physical Education (PSPE) in the IB-PYP plays a crucial role in the holistic development of students, focusing on personal well-being, social skills, and physical health. Yoga has been introduced into the curriculum as part of the PSPE and wellbeing programme, taught by a qualified Yoga teacher, to promote mindfulness and well-being. Yoga supports students' self-reflection and self-management, helping them balance emotions and approach challenges with resilience.

Safeguarding is integrated into GIS Monza's approach to student welfare. The staff are committed to a safe, supportive learning environment and include a safeguarding framework led by an interim Safeguarding Officer. The staff profile notes an Interim Safeguarding Officer (1 yr), highlighting dedicated oversight of safeguarding. Teachers emphasise that when children feel safe they can take risks, ask questions, and grow, reflecting a safeguarding-centered culture. The school also emphasizes pastoral support and well-being as part of safeguarding.