Canadian School of Milan

"The Canadian School of Milan is an English-language, not-for-profit co-educational day school serving students from preschool through Grade 12 in the heart of one of Europe's most dynamic cities."

Formerly known as The Sir James Henderson School — a name honoring a distinguished member of the British Chamber of Commerce — the school was established in 1969 by members of Milan's British expatriate community, reflecting a long-standing commitment to providing a high-quality international education in northern Italy. Over the decades, it has grown into a well-regarded institution now operating as the British School of Milan, welcoming families from a wide range of national and professional backgrounds. The school follows a British International curriculum framework, offering continuity of education for families relocating from the United Kingdom as well as those seeking a rigorous, globally recognized academic pathway. In the upper years, students have access to the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme and the IB Diploma Programme, providing a challenging and internationally portable qualification that is respected by universities worldwide. This combination of British structure and IB accreditation gives students both academic depth and the kind of cross-curricular, inquiry-based learning that prepares them well for higher education and life beyond school. English is the primary language of instruction throughout all year groups, making the school a natural fit for expatriate families and internationally mobile professionals who need seamless continuity in their children's education. For families arriving from North America, the Commonwealth, or elsewhere in the English-speaking world, the transition into the classroom is designed to be as smooth as possible, with a familiar educational culture underpinning daily school life. The school's roots in Milan's expatriate community remain central to its identity. Founded by and for international families, it continues to serve a diverse, globally minded student body — the kind of environment where children routinely grow up alongside peers from many different countries and cultures. This international character fosters open-mindedness and adaptability, qualities that serve students well throughout their lives. Milan itself provides a remarkable backdrop for education. As Italy's financial, fashion, and design capital, the city offers students unparalleled access to cultural institutions, professional networks, and the rich heritage of European civilization. The school's presence in this environment means that learning extends well beyond the classroom, with the city serving as a living resource for arts, history, and contemporary global affairs. For relocating families evaluating schooling options in Italy, the British School of Milan represents a stable, established choice with over half a century of experience educating the children of international professionals. Its not-for-profit status underscores a genuine commitment to educational mission over commercial interest, and its dual British and IB framework ensures that students remain competitive and well-prepared regardless of where their family's journey takes them next.