Learning Italy - Dante Alighieri

Siena, Italy

Location: Dante Alighieri is situated in the small medieval Italian city of Siena. The historical centre of Siena has been declared as a UNESCO world heritage site as it has preserved its gothic architecture from the 12th century. From the school, students can reach the core of the old town, Piazza del Campo, in under ten minutes by walking towards the 87m Tower of Mangia, which is difficult to miss as it rises boldly above the streets of the city. Another noteworthy attraction of Siena is the Fortezza Medicea, a fortress for the city’s protection which now provides its visitors with a number of picturesque hiking and walking trails. The fortress is 25 minutes by foot from Dante Alighieri. With such a central location, most of the city's attractions are accessible by foot, but for those who prefer to use public transport, there are bus stops close to the school building. Dante Alighieri is close to the Botanical Garden of the University of Siena and Monastery of St. Augustine in a quiet area of Siena which is perfect for concentrating on learning a language. There are a number of restaurants dotted around the immediate vicinity of the school for those wanting to taste the local Italian cuisine, as well as a supermarket and a cinema nearby.

School facilities: The facilities within the school building include a library, a movie room with rentals available, a games room, a rooftop terrace and a piano in the recreation room.

Teaching Style: The methodology used within the classroom follows a didactic approach to learning. This style of teaching focuses on the basic norms of the language and presents this information to the students in an organised and almost scientific manner. This is introduced to the student through interactive activities and a general format of teaching-learning-evaluating in order to address any misconceptions the student may have and to see where their strengths lie.

Course structure: Dante Alighieri has some interesting courses alongside the general language courses including language and music, language and cooking classes, 50+ programme, a pre professional internship and a PLIDA exam preparation course. Siena Magnifica is a course that combines both the Italian language and culture and includes 4 cultural lessons per week: 2 cooking lessons, 1 wine tasting and 1 excursion per 2 weeks programme. It is possible to book this course for up to 4 weeks and gives students the opportunity to learn more about Siena whilst getting to grips with the Italian language. All the teachers are highly trained and create a professional and encouraging learning atmosphere within the classrooms.