Special Needs and Reforms

Understand what kind of assistance is available for children with special needs and the proposed reforms within the Italian school system...

Special needs education

Italy has had an inclusive education policy since the 1970s and disabled children are educated in mainstream schools. Additional support is provided to mainstream schools in the form of special-needs teachers and reduced class size. Italy is one of the European countries with the highest inclusion of people with special needs in mainstream schools. The education system believes that both children with and without disabilities learn from each other.

Each school has a specific ‘inclusion plan’ to ensure that schools cater to pupils with disabilities. They work closely with parents to make sure that the school can provide the necessary support. 

Pupils with disabilities can enrol in upper-secondary education until the age of 18, and can complete compulsory education up to the age of 18 instead of 16.

During enrolment, parents must submit documentation that certifies the type of disability and the right to receive specific support. This information is used to create a profile that will help to shape the child’s education plan.

Parents whose child has a specific learning disorder must submit the official certification issued by the relevant health authority. Teachers at all levels must undergo specific training catered to children with learning disorders. 

Further Information