For decades, schools have relied on rote learning, but this approach is no longer sufficient. With the rapid evolution of the job market, students need comprehensive training. Holistic learning has emerged as the new approach, equipping students with knowledge that supports their physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
St. George’s British International School exemplifies a commitment to choosing the right path for children’s education, standing out as Italy’s most diverse and truly international school. Due to its dedication to fostering an environment of tolerance, respect, and understanding, The Academic Insights proudly recognizes St. George’s British International School as the International School of the Year 2024.
Fostering Global Minds
St. George’s academic departments are exceptional, achieving international recognition, in turn, providing quality education based on the UK national curriculum, thoughtfully adapted to suit its unique location in the heart of Europe. This academic journey leads students to undertake GCSE and IGCSE exams, and eventually into completing the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).
The IB Diploma offered at the school combines academic rigor with intellectual breadth, fostering literate students who are globally and scientifically aware, capable of communicating in multiple languages. Also, enhanced by components in research, critical thinking, and community service, St. George’s students emerge as well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges of the 21st century.
With a diverse student body representing over 100 nationalities, St. George’s prioritizes a welcoming and inclusive community. Recognizing that many students come from families working in embassies or international organizations, the school has developed a supportive environment to help new students quickly feel at home, assisted by a buddy system to foster belonging. The vast array of cultural perspectives among students enriches classroom discussions, with students contributing insights from their national and cultural backgrounds, adding an international dimension to the British-based curriculum.
The main campus of the school designed around a central quad referred to as the ‘Oasis,’ which serves as a gathering place for the community at the beginning and end of each day, allowing parents, staff, and students to connect regularly. Monthly community events emphasize a sense of togetherness, fostering strong connections between parents and the school.
A Haven of Holistic Enrichment
In a conversation with Dr. John Knight, Principal and CEO of St. George’s British International School, we asked him about the unique programs and initiatives that distinguish St. George’s from other international schools. He shared, “Our Enrichment program is one of the most extensive of any international school, with an exceptional Art department achieving world-leading results and offering daily art clubs.” He also highlighted that “The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award at St. George’s has the highest proportional student participation rate globally, with a similarly high number of students involved in Model United Nations.”
Dr. Knight highlighted the school’s comprehensive sports program, with the majority of students engaged in one of the school academies. Additionally, the Top Hat Academy at St. George’s offers enrichment in dance and drama, giving students the opportunity to complete LAMDA exams. This strong combination of enrichment activities and a rigorous academic curriculum ensures that all students are consistently challenged and empowered to reach their full potential.
Setting the Standard
St. George’s British International School has a proven track record of successfully placing students in top universities across the UK, US, and around the globe, providing current students with inspiring role models. Alumni regularly connect with students throughout the year, demonstrating that they too can aspire to prestigious institutions such as Harvard, MIT, Cambridge, and Oxford, where many former students are currently enrolled.
The school’s recent International Baccalaureate (IB) results, with an impressive average of 36 points, position St. George’s among the top schools in Europe. Additionally, the school’s success in GCSE examinations is notable, with 70% of grades awarded at A and A* levels. This trend of university success continues, as students head to elite institutions this September, and King’s College London now has more St. George’s attendees than any other school in Italy.
In the Days to Come
St. George’s British International School has embarked on an ambitious campus development plan, which commenced this year with the acquisition of a neighboring property. The school is currently constructing a new Junior School, with additional developments scheduled over the next three years, including a new swimming pool, sports hall, and theatre. These enhancements will support the school’s aspiration to become the leading international school in Europe in the coming years.
Dr. John Knight – Principal and CEO
Bringing in 30 years of experience in education, primarily in leadership roles across five schools, for the past two decades, Dr. John Knight has focused on international education within top institutions in Europe. In 2002, Dr. Knight earned his National Professional Qualification in Headship and has since obtained a Master’s in Educational Leadership and a Doctorate in Education.
Throughout his career, the schools he has led have consistently ranked among the top 100 schools in the world. Notably, while serving as Head of the Secondary School in Brussels, his institution was awarded the British International School of the Year and the Spear’s School of the Year. St. George’s has also maintained its status in the top 100 rankings each year and is currently a finalist for the British International School of the Year 2024 at the Independent School Awards.
