Italian Education system

The Italian education system is structured into five main stages, providing a comprehensive framework for students from early childhood through higher education.

Stages of the Italian Education System:

• Kindergarten (Scuola dell'infanzia): This non-compulsory stage caters to children aged 3 to 6 years, focusing on socialization, basic skills, and play-based learning.

• Primary School (Scuola primaria): Lasting five years, this stage is for children aged 6 to 11 the curriculum includes Italian, mathematics, science, history, geography, and arts, providing a foundational education.

• Lower Secondary School (Scuola secondaria di primo grado): This three-year program is for students aged 11 to 14. It builds on primary education with subjects like technology and a foreign language, culminating in an exam that allows progression to upper secondary school.

• Upper Secondary School - IDM System (Scuola secondaria di secondo grado): Lasting five years, this stage is for students aged 14 to 19. It offers various tracks, including Liceo (academic), Istituto Tecnico (technical), and Istituto Professionale (vocational), each preparing students for university or the workforce. Students take the Esame di Maturità at the end of this stage to earn their diploma.

The IDM Structure at IHSS

1. Licei (Academic Pathways)

Students who pursue the licei track focus on academic and theoretical disciplines. Options include:

Liceo Scientifico (Scientific Studies)
Liceo Classico (Classical Studies)
Liceo Linguistico (Language Studies)
Liceo Artistico (Arts Studies)
Licei students study a variety of core subjects such as Mathematics, Physics, Italian Literature, History, and Foreign Languages, designed to prepare them for higher education at leading universities.


2. Technical (Technical & Academic Pathways)

IHSS stands out for its Technical departments, offering specialized education in fields that align with global industry demands.

Students gain both theoretical and hands-on training in the following departments:

A. Mechanics and Mechatronics

Core Focus: Engineering principles, robotics, machine design, and automation.
Key Subjects: Mechanical Technology, CAD (Computer-Aided Design), and Mechatronics Systems.

B. Electrical and Electronics
Core Focus: Electrical circuits, renewable energy systems, and electronics engineering.
Key Subjects: Electrical Machines, Circuit Design, and Automation.

C. Computer Sciences
Core Focus: Programming, systems analysis, and artificial intelligence.
Key Subjects: Software Development, Databases, Networking, and AI Basics.

D. Healthcare
Core Focus: Medical sciences, patient care, and health technology.
Key Subjects: Anatomy, Pharmacology, Clinical Procedures, and Health Informatics.

E. Fashion Design
Core Focus: Textile innovation, design, and garment creation.
Key Subjects: Fashion Drawing, Material Science, and Pattern Design.

F. Hospitality and Tourism
Core Focus: Event management, culinary arts, and global tourism.
Key Subjects: Hotel Operations, Food Science, and Tourism Economics.

G. Agriculture and Food Industry
Core Focus: Sustainable farming, food production, and agri-business.
Key Subjects: Agro-technology, Environmental Science, and Food Safety.

Common Subjects Across All Tracks

All students, regardless of their specialization, study a core curriculum that includes:

Mathematics
Physics
Italian Language and Literature
History and Geography
English Language
Ethics
Physical Education
These subjects ensure a balanced education, fostering analytical thinking, communication skills, and global awareness.


Global Qualifications

In Egypt
Students earn the Egyptian High School Diploma, allowing them to apply to local universities.

In Italy
Students receive the Diploma di Maturità (IDM), a highly respected qualification granting access to Italian governmental universities under the same conditions as native Italian students.

In Europe
The IDM is aligned with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) at Level 4, facilitating recognition across EHEA (European Higher Education Area) universities and Bologna process.
This enables graduates to pursue higher education and professional opportunities throughout Europe.