Home Education in Italy

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Legal Framework

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Annual Notification
Families choosing home education (istruzione parentale) in Italy are legally required to notify the local school authority (dirigente scolastico) each academic year. This declaration informs the school system of the family’s intention to provide education outside of traditional institutions.

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Capacity Declaration
Alongside the notification, parents must declare that they possess the technical or economic capacity to educate their children at home. While the law does not define these criteria rigidly, parents typically confirm they can provide a suitable environment and resources. To support families, pre-filled forms are available on the Libera Schola Foundation website.

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Assessment and Evaluation

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Annual Examinations
Homeschooled children are generally required to undergo annual examinations to verify their academic progress. These assessments align with the Italian national curriculum and serve as a checkpoint for the student’s educational development. Exams are conducted in Italian, although the Libera Schola Foundation and EDUlearn can assist families in identifying schools that are open-minded and cooperative in their approach. 
 

For International Families

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If you're a foreign family residing in Italy and choosing to homeschool, it's important to know that the annual exam for your child can be adapted to their current language level and learning path.

Italian law requires homeschooled children to undergo yearly evaluations; however, there is no obligation for newly arrived or non-Italian-speaking children to take the exam at the same level as native peers. Instead, schools are encouraged to assess the child based on their progress and abilities, taking into account:

• Their Italian language proficiency

• Their previous educational background

• The duration of their stay in Italy

Many schools are understanding and flexible, especially when approached with openness and a documented learning path. This means that if your child is still learning Italian, they will not be expected to perform like a native speaker—and you, as a family, have the right to request accommodations that align with your child’s actual stage of learning.

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Educational Flexibility

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The legal structure offers flexibility in implementation. While the state sets general expectations, parents have the autonomy to shape the educational journey based on their child’s individual needs, interests, and pace of learning. By fulfilling the required legal steps, parents can create a rich and customized educational experience that respects the rhythms and passions of each child.

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Trends and Insights

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Rising Popularity
Home education in Italy has seen a notable increase, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the Italian Ministry of Education, the number of homeschooled students rose from approximately 4,000 before the pandemic to over 15,000 in 2024. This shift reflects a broader desire for autonomy, well-being, and educational innovation.

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Geographical Variations
Homeschooling is more prevalent in northern regions such as Lombardy and Piemonte, where families often have greater access to resources, support networks, and alternative education communities. 
The situation of home education in Trento and Bolzano (the two autonomous provinces of the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region) is unique in Italy due to their special autonomous status, which grants them legislative powers in education. Home education is allowed, but authorities often request extra documentation to verify the family's capacity to educate. Families frequently encounter institutional resistance, and legal action may be necessary to defend their rights.

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Socialization and Community

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Building Peer Connections

While some families easily integrate social opportunities through extracurricular activities, local networks, and cooperative learning groups, others may initially struggle to find consistent peer interaction. National associations like EDUpar help bridge this gap, creating opportunities for connection and mutual support across Italy.

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Libera Schola Foundation is a pioneering organization in Italy dedicated to promoting educational freedom through the support of homeschooling, unschooling, and innovative learning models. Founded with the mission to empower families in reclaiming their role as primary educators, Libera Schola offers legal guidance, community connections, and educational resources tailored to each child's unique path.

 

 

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S-COOL: Italy’s National Home Education Gathering

One of the highlights of the Italian home education community is S-COOL, an annual national event co-organized by EDUpar and the Libera Schola Foundation. Now entering its 12th edition, S-COOL brings together homeschooling and unschooling families from all over the country for a weekend of learning, play, and connection.

 Next Edition: September 2025
Location: Camping Village "La Badiaccia", Castiglione del Lago, Umbria
 More info & registration

Event Highlights Include:

•  Creative Workshops: Nature-based art activities like mandala-making

•  Games & Play: Treasure hunts and team-building challenges for all ages

•  Discussion Circles: Sharing stories, strategies, and resources on home education

•  Leisure Time: Swimming pools, sports facilities, and access to a private beach

S-COOL is open to all—whether you're just beginning your journey or are a seasoned home educator, this gathering offers an inspiring and welcoming space to grow and connect.

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