The city of Florence is a testament to centuries of traditions and Italian culture. The art, architecture and literature are timeless examples of world-renowned Florentine artisans and intellectuals, and people come from all over to learn about it. Although Florence is unique in this way and the level of tourism speaks for itself, the city also boasts other qualities. A rich history of internationalism is another less-known but profoundly important Florentine characteristic.
On November 15, the International School of Florence celebrated International Day to highlight the importance of the 40-plus nationalities represented in the school and to recognize and celebrate global cultural differences. The juxtaposition of Italian history and modern multiculturalism within the city of Florence is mirrored here at ISF. The result is a rich and vibrant hub of learning and global engagement. It also feels akin to the efforts of the city to be both welcoming and, at the same time, respectful of its immeasurable historical value.
The truth is that the city of Florence has included an international demographic since the 19th century. Attracted by the beauty, culture and lifestyle, intellectuals, artists and art collectors established their residences in Florence and the surrounding hills. The historic Tuscan villas that are home to the International School of Florence are as important for their history (Edith Farnsworth lived in Villa delle Tavernule in Bagno a Ripoli before ISF moved in) as they are for providing the home for meaningful and forward-thinking education. Acknowledging and welcoming international influences promotes tolerance, curiosity and open-mindedness, qualities that ISF recognizes as fundamental.
The activities involved in International Day were an indication of the ISF approach to education, and involved celebrating and respecting world nationalities, while simultaneously educating others about cultural heritage. Families representing their home countries invited students and staff to learn about their countries and taste typical culinary treats. It was a wonderful way to highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion and involved the entire school community. The Parent Association went all out for the event, joyfully highlighting aspects of their home countries customs and traditions. Students were encouraged to ask questions and classroom activities were focused on world issues and topics.
In this same spirit of global-mindedness, the International School of Florence drives an effort to reach outward and build relationships with other International schools and organizations. The importance of open dialogue keeps the teaching and learning current with global issues and guest speakers are often invited. A recent event was a visit from Indian author Nandita Ghatge, who wrote A Maharaja in Florence, who came together with historian Deirdre Pirro to enlighten students about her rich family history and connection with the city of Florence. In 1870, her husband’s descendent, Indian Prince Rajaram Chhatrapati, unexpectedly died in Florence, and the city’s mayor of the time made exceptional accommodations for the grieving family, including a monument in his honour at the end of the Cascine Park (thus giving the name to the Ponte dell’Indiano). The 11th-grade students attending her seminar were invited to reflect on the importance of different perspectives, whether political, ideological, religious or other.
Another international exchange involved a drawing workshop with visiting ACS Cobham, an international school in England, following a Global Art Teachers’ Exchange. This is an international conference started in London in 2019 that provides dynamic and relevant professional development to Visual Arts teachers. The relationship that developed between teachers of both schools provided the context to invite ACS Cobham to the ISF campus for a drawing workshop led by Art teacher Andi Nufer. The visiting students developed their drawing skills immersed in the beauty of the Tuscan landscape and it was a pleasure to share the campus with them.
These are recent examples of ISF’s commitment to staying true to its name. It maintains a deep appreciation of Florence’s history while simultaneously engaging in intercultural dialogue and relationships. Celebrating internationalism is the essence of being a global citizen and this is one of the most important objectives of an ISF education.
