INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF FLORENCE ANNUAL REPORT
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF FLORENCE
MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
Sharyn Baddeley
This Annual Report is intended to provide our ISF school community with a clear and thoughtful overview of the year—highlighting the progress we’ve made, the experiences we’ve shared, and the areas where we continue to grow. It is an important reflection tool that helps us stay accountable to our mission, while celebrating the collective efforts of students, staff, and families.
As the world continues to face uncertainty and change, the importance of our school values— Respect, Responsibility, Relationships, and Resilience—has never been more evident. These values anchor us in times of challenge and continue to shape the kind of community we are building each day.
This year has brought many rich opportunities for learning, growth, and connection. From classroom experiences to field trips, athletic events, performances, and community-wide celebrations, our students have had meaningful chances to explore, contribute, and thrive. These moments remind us how fortunate we are to learn and grow together in such a vibrant environment.
Thank you to everyone in our community for your continued engagement and support. I hope this report serves as a valuable window into the life of the school and all we have worked towards together.
SHARYN BADDELEY Head of School
In March, ISF proudly hosted the Mediterranean Heads of School (MedHeads) Conference, bringing together Heads of School, Finance Directors, and Admissions Directors from across the region. This biannual gathering provides a vital platform for school leaders to engage in open dialogue about the shared challenges and opportunities shaping international education today.
The conference also welcomed Board Chairs, encouraging meaningful collaboration and cross-functional learning among school leadership. The days were filled with thought-provoking sessions, productive discussions, and opportunities to strengthen professional connections. Hosting MedHeads was not only a privilege for ISF, but also a reaffirmation of our commitment to ongoing growth, innovation, and partnership within the broader international school community.
MEDHEADS CONFERNCE AT ISF - A GATHERING OF EDUCATIONAL LEADERS
OUR MISSION
Internationally-minded, uniquely Florentine
MISSION
At the International School of Florence, our mission is to cultivate growth through meaningful and inspiring learning experiences that empower students to take ownership of their education, promote wellbeing, and foster a sense of global responsibility.
VALUE STATEMENTS
ISF is committed to:
• Meaningful Learning and Student Agency
• Promote inquiry-driven, relevant, and innovative learning
• Prioritize student wellbeing in all practices
• Support home language development and draw on Florence’s unique learning opportunities
• Enabling Change
• Foster a culture of participation and shared leadership
• Encourage proactive communication and embrace purposeful change
• Connecting with Purpose
• Celebrate our shared identity and connect with local and global communities
• Develop strong relationships with partners to enrich learning
• Leading by Example
• Align practices with evolving international standards
• Ensure effective governance, clear roles, and a culture of continuous improvement
CORE VALUES
RESPECT
At ISF, respect is the cornerstone of our community. We teach students to value themselves and others, fostering a culture of mutual understanding, empathy, and inclusivity.
RELATIONSHIPS
Through collaborative learning and community engagement, we nurture relationships that are vital for personal and academic growth, emphasizing the importance of connection and cooperation.
RESPONSIBILITY
We emphasize accountability and independence, preparing students to navigate their futures with integrity and a strong ethical foundation.
RESILIENCE
We equip students with the resilience needed to overcome challenges, adapt to change, and thrive in any circumstance.
THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF FLORENCE AT A GLANCE
ABOUT US
Founded in 1952 and rooted in nearly seven decades of tradition, the International School of Florence (ISF) is one of Europe’s oldest international schools, offering an innovative, college-preparatory education culminating in the International Baccalaureate Diploma. As a non-profit, independent day school serving students from preschool through grade 12, ISF blends academic excellence with creativity, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for beauty—values inspired by its Renaissance heritage. With around 520 students from over 30 countries across two campuses in a historic Tuscan setting, ISF remains committed to nurturing the whole person and preparing students for the opportunities of tomorrow.
GOVERNANCE
The International School of Florence is a not-for-profit organization, incorporated in the United States under the name American Schools Abroad, Inc. (ASA). The Board’s main functions are to ensure the financial wellbeing of the School and the excellence of its educational programs and facilities. Apart from making sure the school has a solid financial foundation and an excellent academic program, we also take care of the mental health of the students, teachers, and administration and nurture future socially responsible citizens. The Board is governed through by-laws that can be found in the Policy Book
(Section 7000), which is available for consultation in the library of each ISF campus. Board members are all volunteers: there are no benefits accrued from being a Board member. Members are expected to attend monthly meetings during the school year and to participate in one of the Board’s five committees: Executive, Finance, Facilities, Marketing, and Strategic Planning. Board members work to promote the School’s good name within the ISF and in the Florentine community.
RECOGNITION
At ISF, our dedication to academic excellence is reflected in our long-standing accreditations and affiliations with respected educational organizations. We are accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools in the USA, a partnership that began in 1981, and we are proud to be an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School since 1984. ISF is also a member of the Council of International Schools (CIS), the World-Class Instructional Design and Assessment (WIDA) consortium, and the Association of IB World Schools in Italy. Additionally, we offer students the opportunity to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, further supporting their personal growth and global readiness.
STUDENT NATIONALITIES
CURRENT STUDENT NATIONALITIES
FACULTY + STAFF ALL
& STAFF NATIONALITIES
One of the defining features of the student body is its diversity. ISF students represent over 38 nationalities and speak over 25 languages. The school has two campuses, one in the Tuscan countryside near Florence, the Junior School, with 205 students; the Upper School has its home in a 13th century Florentine villa in the stunning Oltrarno area, with 340 students.
ASIA
AFRICA EUROPE
SOUTH AMERICA
NORTH AMERICA
AUSTRALIA
MEASURES OF SUCCESS ACADEMICS
MAP RESULTS OVERVIEW
As part of our commitment to tracking student progress and promoting academic growth, ISF utilises the MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) assessments across multiple grade levels. These assessments provide valuable data on individual student achievement and growth over time in core academic areas. This year’s MAP results highlight ISF’s continued growth, with comparison graphs included to illustrate our performance alongside other international and Mediterranean region schools. The data supports ongoing efforts to refine instruction, personalise learning, and maintain high academic standards across the school.
The Italian Programme in Grades 1-8 is a national program that leads to the externally administered Italian Government Prove Invalsi exam in Grade 5 and Terza Media exam in Grade 8. The program is designed for native Italian students and follows the requirements of the Italian public school. Students take courses that include Italian, History, Geography and Mathematics in Italian.
ITALIAN PROGRAMME (QUINTA) RESULTS
ITALIAN PROGRAMME (TERZA MEDIA) RESULTS
INTERNATIONAL BACCALUAREATE DIPLOMA PROGRAMME
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) remains a cornerstone of our academic offering, fostering critical thinking, international mindedness, and academic excellence. Each year, our students rise to the challenge of this rigorous programme, supported by dedicated educators and a strong school community.
The results presented below reflect the achievements of our IBDP cohorts over the past few academic years, offering a picture of consistent effort, growth, and success. These outcomes are a testament to the commitment and resilience of our students and staff. Results for the 2024–2025 cohort will be released in early July 2025 and shared with our school community shortly thereafter.
2025 UNIVERSITY OFFERS AND MATRICULATION
UNITED STATES
Chapman University
Clarkson University
Duquesne University
Eastern Oregon University
Georgia State University
Hofstra University
Howard University
Lawrence University
Loyola Marymount University
Marist University
Michigan State University
Muhlenberg University
Northeastern University
Oregon State University
Pace University
Pennsylvania State University
Roger Williams University
Rutgers University
Sacred Heart University
St. John’s University
Syracuse University
University of California, Davis
University of California, Santa Cruz
University of Massachusetts Amherst
University of Michigan
University of Minnesota Twin Cities
University of Oregon
University of Richmond
University of Scranton
University of Vermont
Western Washington University
Yale University
UNITED KINGDOM
Cardi University
City, University of London
Durham University
King’s College London
Lancaster University
London Metropolitan University
Loughborough University
Newcastle University
Portsmouth University
Queen Mary University of London
Queen’s University Belfast
Royal Veterinary College, Univ. of London
Southampton University
University College of London (UCL)
University of Birmingham
University of Bristol
University of Edinburgh
University of Exeter
Univeristy of Glasgow
University of Greenwich
University of Kent
University of Leeds
University of Leicester
University of Liverpool
University of Manchester
University of Oxford
University of Roehampton
University of St. Andrews
Univeristy of Surrey
University of the Arts London
University of West England Bristol
University of Winchester
University of York
EU/SWITZERLAND
EHL Hospitality Business School
Eindhoven University of Technology
ESCP Business School
GLION Institute
IE University
Politecnico di Milano
Touro University Berlin
UAX Madrid
Universidad de Diseno, Innovacion y Tecnologia
Universidad Europea of Madrid
University of Europe for Applied Sciences
University of Groningen
University of Maastricht
University of St. Gallen
ASIA
Hong Kong University
ENROLLMENT TRENDS + FINANCIALS BREAKDOWN
Sound financial management remains a cornerstone of the school’s commitment to delivering high-quality educational experiences. This year’s financial activity reflects careful stewardship of resources to support both immediate operational needs and the long-term sustainability of the school. Strategic investments were made to enhance teaching and learning, maintain well-functioning facilities, and ensure the effective administration of the school, all while navigating the evolving educational and economic landscape.
The 2024-2025 school year maintained stable enrollment figures, with a total of 544 students attending across all grade levels. This consistency reflects the school’s strong reputation and ongoing commitment to delivering a high-quality international education. As per our financial reporting calendar, the fiscal year will officially close on 30 June 2025. The annual financial statements will be prepared over the summer months and submitted for external audit beginning in September 2025. Our annual accounts are audited by EY Italy, Member of Ernst of Young Global Limited, ensuring compliance with Italian accounting standards and reinforcing our commitment to transparency and financial accountability.
ENROLLMENT NUMBERS
Enrollment numbers for the past 3 years.
During the 2024/2025 school year, tuition fees continued to represent the primary source of income. Other revenue sources include but are not limited to:
• auxiliary operations like field trip and activities reimbursements
• donations and sponsorships
• extraordinary revenues
Personnel costs remain the primary expense, accounting for 70% of total expenditures, including staff children tuition fees, salaries, professional development and benefits.
• Didactic costs: activities, supplies, software, travel, accommodation, tools for the educational program;
• School management and administration costs: all the resources and services used to manage the support of the educational program;
• Operating costs: campus rent, facilities maintenance, consultancy for repairs and works on the buildings, cleaning services and utilities.
OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES + SPORTS
Our school takes great pride in offering a broad and dynamic range of extracurricular activities (ECAs) and sports programs that support students’ holistic development beyond the classroom. Throughout the 2024/2025 academic year, students engaged in a variety of ECAs designed to nurture creativity, collaboration, leadership, and personal interests.
We are also a founding member of the International Schools Sports Council (ISSC), and our students proudly represented the school in athletic competitions across Italy and throughout Europe. With over 125 students participating in sports teams this year, our programs foster school spirit, resilience, and teamwork. These opportunities continue to be a valued part of school life, offering meaningful experiences that extend learning, connection, and personal growth.
UPPER SCHOOL ECAS 2023-2025
Broadcast Club
Environmental Club
HSSC (High School Student Council)
HS Basketball (Boys & Girls)
HS Football (Boys & Girls)
HS Football (Girls)
HS Volleyball (Boys & Girls)
Investors and Entrepreneurs
Math HL Preparation Club
Model United Nations (MUN)
MS Football (Boys & Girls)
MS Volleyball (Boys & Girls)
MSSC (Middle School Student Council)
Musical Theatre Club
Art Club
Speech Club
Training and Fitness Club
Tuskan Times Yearbook
MS Boys Basketball, Padua
MS Girls Football, Padua
HS Girls Football, Treviso
HS Boys Basketball, Padua
HS Boys Football, Treviso
HS Mixed Beach Volley, Treviso
HS Mixed Padel, Treviso
UPPER SCHOOL SPORTS
• International sport league (ISSC, International School Sports Council, thirteen schools, ISF is one of the founding members);
• International tournaments attended (HS Football in Brussels, HS Volleyball in Geneva);
• Local sports league including Florentine public and private schools that ISF is part of (Coppa David for HS football and Local HS Mixed Volleyball League);
• Core sports (basketball, volleyball and football) offered to both male and female students across MS and HS;
• Tournaments attended in Italy (organized by H-Farm International School of Treviso and EIS Padua);
• 125 Upper School students involved with the sports program (highest ratio for the last three years)
• Over 150 games played throughout the leagues, the tournaments and friendly fixtures against other local schools;
• Over 250 training sessions throughout the school year.
HS Boys Football, Brussels
JUNIOR SCHOOL ECAS 2023-2025
Beekeeping
Boys Soccer (Verona)
Cake Design Club
Chess Club
Drama Club
Fencing Club (Scherma)
Foundation/Grade 1 Club
Girls Soccer (Verona)
Healthy Snack Team Council
Italian Club
Karate Martial Arts
JUNIOR SCHOOL SPORTS COMPETITIONS
MAR 2022
MAY 2022
MAY 2022
NOV 2022
NOV 2022
OCT 2023
NOV 2023
NOV 2023
MAR2024
APR 2024
MAY 2024
OCT 2024
NOV 2024
NOV 2024
MAR 2025
APR 2025
Grades 2–5, ASSI Biathlon
Girls Grades 4 & 5, Med Cup Tournament, Verona
All Grades, Guarda Firenze (FI)
Grade 4, Stadio Ridolfi, Campo di Marte (FI)
All Grades, Ginky Family Run (FI)
Grades 2–5, ASSI Cross Country
Grade 4, Stadio Ridolfi, Campo di Marte (FI)
All Grades, Ginky Family Run (FI)
Grades 4 & 5, Med Cup Tournament, Verona
Grades 2–5, ASSI Biathlon
All Grades, Guarda Firenze (FI)
Grades 2–5, ASSI Cross Country
Grade 4, Stadio Ridolfi, Campo di Marte (FI)
All Grades, Ginky Family Run (FI)
Grades 4–5, Med Cup Tournament, Verona Grades 2–5, ASSI Biathlon
The Model United Nations (MUN) experience presents students with a superb opportunity to engage with young people from across Europe in passionate, informed debate about the most urgent issues facing humanity. Students will seek out a range of views and perspectives when solving problems and will come to understand the danger, in a globalised world, “of a single story”. They will examine ideas that challenge their own, and come to enjoy the complexity of multiple perspectives. Through MUN, students will increasingly make connections between what they are doing “outside the classroom" and in their subject area studies. Students who engage in MUN invariably come to understand that diplomacy requires a spirit of compromise and that we, as humans, are here for the sake of each other. MUN is a transformational experience and one we cannot recommend highly enough.
In the 2024–2025 academic year, the International School of Florence proudly participated in the following MUN conferences:
THIMUN - The Hague MUN (January 2025): Typically around 200 schools from over 100 countries participate each year, bringing together more than 3,200 student delegates.
SAIMUN - St. Andrew’s International Model United Nations (February 2025): Typically around 600 student delegates from over 50 schools and 20 countries to debate global issues and develop diplomatic skills.
FloMUN - Florence Model United Nations (March 2025) hosted by ISF: This year’s conference brought together over 200 student delegates from 9 different schools and 3 countries and offered a dynamic platform in Florence for students to engage in global diplomacy and debate key international issues.
MODEL UNITED NATIONS
DUKE OF EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL AWARDEMPOWERING YOUNG PEOPLE THROUGH CHANGE
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award continues to be a cornerstone of personal growth and character development at ISF. This globally recognised program encourages students to step beyond their comfort zones, build resilience, and develop a strong sense of responsibility through service, skill-building, physical activity, and adventurous journeys.
Throughout the year, our students have embraced the challenges of the Award with determination and enthusiasm. Whether hiking through unfamiliar terrain or volunteering in their communities, they have demonstrated courage, teamwork, and perseverance— qualities that will serve them well far beyond their school years.
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING AND FIELD TRIPSLEARNING THROUGH EXPERIENCE
This year, ISF students engaged in over 60 field trips across the whole school, reinforcing our commitment to holistic education and hands-on learning. These experiences extended far beyond the classroom, offering students meaningful opportunities to inquire, explore, and connect with the world around them.
Many of these trips took place right here in Florence—our city rich in history, art, science, and culture. By stepping into museums, studios, gardens, and local organisations, students built a deeper understanding of their learning and a stronger bond with the community they are part of.
CANTABILE CHOIR IN PRAGUE - A JOURNEY OF HARMONY AND LEARNING
This year, the ISF Cantabile Choir travelled to Prague for an unforgettable musical and cultural experience. From performing in the historic Strahov Monastery to exploring the life and legacy of composer Dvořák, students were immersed in the rich artistic spirit of the city.
More than just a concert tour, this was a powerful example of experiential learning—where music, inquiry, and real-world connections deepened understanding and personal growth. The trip brought the PYP to life and reminded us that harmony is something we live, not just sing.
Cantabile Choir in Prague – A Journey of Harmony and Learning
MAINTAINING OUR CAMPUSES FACILITIES & MAINTENANCE
Maintaining our school’s historic campuses is both a privilege and a responsibility. As heritage-listed properties, the buildings require ongoing care to meet safety standards and legal requirements. Regular maintenance is essential, particularly in areas such as structural integrity, seismic compliance, and preservation of the architectural features that make our school environment so unique.
Looking ahead, façade restoration at the Junior School has been identified as a key priority in the coming years. In addition, we recognise the importance of safe and functional sports facilities for student wellbeing and physical development. Planning is already underway to upgrade our sports areas, with exciting improvements scheduled for both campuses over the upcoming summer break. These works reflect our ongoing commitment to providing a safe, inspiring, and well-maintained learning environment for all.
Summer 2024 Junior School Facade: The renovation of the east facade was proactively carried out to enhance campus safety, following signs of plaster detachment, ensuring a secure environment for our students.
Summer 2025 Tower Consolidation: A seismic retrofitting project has been planned to improve the structural safety of the campus. The intervention includes the consolidation of the tower to ensure compliance with current seismic regulations and to enhance the overall stability of the building.
MAINTAINING OUR CAMPUSES TECHNOLOGY AT ISF
At ISF, technology is more than a tool—it is an essential part of how we inspire curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in our students. We are committed to thoughtfully integrating technology into the curriculum, ensuring that digital tools not only supplement knowledge but also enhance engagement, collaboration, and personalised learning.
With the rapid evolution of educational technology and the increasing role of artificial intelligence, we have developed a comprehensive AI Policy and an IT Strategic Plan to guide our continued innovation. These frameworks support our vision of providing students with progressive skill development that prepares them to be confident, ethical, and future-ready global citizens.
Whether through interactive platforms, coding projects, or digital storytelling, our aim is to make learning not only effective but also exciting and meaningful in a digital world. Below is a sample of what we are currently offering our students as part of our ongoing commitment to technology-rich learning experiences.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
LIVING OUR VALUES THROUGH COMMUNITY CONNECTION
This academic year marked the full implementation of our 4Rs—Respect, Relationships, Responsibility, and Resilience—across the school. These core values have guided our interactions, informed our decisions, and created a more unified and thoughtful learning environment. From how students approach their learning to how staff and families engage with one another, the 4Rs have provided a shared language and purpose for our entire community.
These values have been especially evident through our whole-school events and initiatives that brought people together with intention and joy. From the vibrant Autumn Bazaar and high-energy Field Day, to the spirited Cross Country and colourful celebration of International Day, each occasion highlighted how the 4Rs are lived in our daily school life—respect for others, relationships across cultures and ages, responsibility through leadership and participation, and resilience in rising to challenges.
Our Whole School Community Service Day was a particularly meaningful demonstration of our values in action, uniting all students and staff in service to others and showing how small acts of care can have a powerful impact.
Our growing Parent Engagement Program also offered valuable opportunities for connection and communication. Initiatives such as the Head of School Coffee Mornings created a space for open conversation and community-building, they reflected our commitment to accessibility, transparency, and partnership with families.
A special highlight of the year was our Annual Gala—a magnificent evening that not only celebrated our community spirit, but also raised important funds for our School Development Fund. It was a beautiful example of the ISF community coming together with purpose and generosity to support the school’s future.
As we reflect on the year, we are proud of the strong foundation the 4Rs have provided—not only as values we teach, but as principles we live by. These values, paired with our events and initiatives, continue to shape ISF into a place where everyone can belong, grow, and thrive.
ISF ALUMNI
ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT
Over the past year, we have strengthened our connection with alumni through consistent communication, events, and dedicated initiatives. Highlights include regular updates on ISF activities and increased interaction on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. Our first edition of an Alumni Magazine and Spotlight features have showcased the achievements and stories of our community, while visits and personal outreach have deepened engagement. These efforts have led to a noticeable rise in alumni participation and interest in the Alumni Association. Moving forward, we remain committed to expanding networking opportunities and fostering lasting relationships with our alumni.
That diversity is beautiful and must be cherished. We should not feel threatened by what is unknown to us or by ideas that we can't quite comprehend. I learned from a young age how to be open-minded and appreciate how special every culture, religion and ethnicity are. This definitely influenced me in my decision to pursue my advanced studies in London and I am forever grateful to ISF for giving me the opportunity to grow up in such a diverse and inclusive environment.
Jamaica Noferini (Class of 2015)
It was the very beginning of what became my 45 years in education.
David Allan Woodward (Class of 1976)
As someone who came from an Italian public school, I saw ISF as my gateway to the English-speaking world. Due to the international nature of ISF's people and academic structure, I was able to step outside the box and pursue opportunities internationally ever since. By virtue of role models around me, I knew that if I perform my very best, I can gain a foot into the door of some of the best colleges in the world to further my academic pursuits.
Michael Chen (Class of 2017)
Going to ISF, living abroad at a young age and getting out of my "comfort zone" brought out strengths that I have used later in life; such as how to adapt, be flexible and overcome difficulties. I credit all of these in making me the person I am today.
Natalie Seid (Class of 1996)
The students I taught at ISF were wonderfully unique in my teaching career. They were lively, passionate and hungry to learn in the classroom, and outside it, they were fun, unforgettably fashionable and interesting as individuals. Their energy and utter zest for life really stuck with me after I left Florence, and I feel very lucky that a good number of them keep in touch. During my time at ISF, I also had an eclectic coterie of strong, bold, adventurous and intelligent women around me. When I told them that I was thinking about teaching parttime back in England so that I could give writing a fair shot, they supported and celebrated this idea without hesitation. They had such varied life experience and perspective to offer, and I will always be so grateful for their enthusiasm, wisdom and final push to take that risk and pursue more time to write.
Dani Heywood-Lonsdale (Teacher, 2021-2022)
DEVELOPMENT FUND + ISF GALA
2025
The 2025 ISF Gala, held at Villa Corsini a Mezzomonte, was a resounding success— welcoming 180 guests, supported by 20 CAS students, and raising over €40,000— thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Communications team and 21 parent volunteers across five committees.
A portion of proceeds from the 2025 Gala supported local charities that already have close ties with ISF through the Community Service Day as well as the CAS program. All proceeds from the evening will support our children, our school and our Florentine community through the following initiatives:
A significant focus was also on fundraising through the newly launched Development Fund, which has been restructured into four giving areas:
• Innovate ISF (campus enhancements such as science equipment, Smartboards, and a sensory garden),
• Legacy (lasting contributions to financial sustainability and campus improvement),
• Scholarship (funding IB opportunities for deserving local students), and
• School Impact (addressing community needs and faculty development). These initiatives reflect a bold and unified vision to propel ISF into its next chapter while remaining deeply rooted in its mission and community values.
ISF GALA
GALA FUNDS 2023/2024
JS Lower Field: The surface of the JS Lower Field will be replaced with synthetic turf using the funds raised through the 2023–2024 Gala, in order to enhance the quality, safety, and usability of the space for students' outdoor activities.
US Upper Field: The surface of the US Upper Field will also be replaced with synthetic turf using the funds raised through the 2023–2024 Gala, in order to enhance the quality, safety, and usability of the space for students' outdoor activities.
REBRANDING ON BOTH CAMPUSES
Through the summer of 2024 and throughout the school year, our campus branding was thoughtfully updated to reflect and reinforce ISF’s mission, vision, and core values. This transformation ensures our shared identity is visible and felt across the school, inspiring our community every day.
