GROW currently welcomes children in two mixed-age groups:

• Germogli: Primary / Children’s House, ages 3–5

• Fiori di Campo: Elementary, ages 6–10

Mixed-age learning is an important part of Montessori education. It allows children to learn at their own pace, collaborate across age groups and grow into both learners and role models.

Coming soon: “Semini” daycare for 0-2. Reach out to us with enquires here.

Yes. GROW’s educational approach is rooted in Montessori philosophy and led by experienced Montessori guides. Children learn within carefully prepared indoor and outdoor environments that support independence, concentration, curiosity and meaningful, self-directed work.

Our educational team brings together Montessori training, subject expertise, inclusive education and experience in outdoor and experiential learning.

Montessori in Nature combines the principles of Montessori education with regular, immersive learning outdoors. Children develop autonomy through purposeful activity, hands-on exploration and participation in everyday life, while nature becomes an active part of the learning environment.

At GROW, Montessori work takes place alongside gardening, movement, observation, creative projects, practical activities and exploration of the surrounding landscape.

Outdoor education is part of everyday life at GROW, rather than an occasional activity. Depending on the age group, season and weather, children may learn through gardening, nature observation, movement, creative workshops, free play and projects connected to the local environment.

Our location in the Vendicari Nature Reserve gives children the opportunity to experience Sicily’s landscape and seasons directly.

Yes. Children develop skills in language, mathematics, science, history, geography and other curriculum areas through Montessori materials, focused lessons, independent work and interdisciplinary projects.

For elementary-age children, learning is aligned with the competencies required by the Italian national curriculum while preserving the curiosity, autonomy and intrinsic motivation central to Montessori education.

Children have meaningful freedom within clear and respectful boundaries. Educators prepare the environment, introduce materials, observe each child’s development and provide guidance at the appropriate moment.

This gives children space to follow their interests while ensuring steady progress, shared responsibilities and a calm, purposeful learning environment.

A typical day combines uninterrupted periods of Montessori work with outdoor exploration, movement, creative activities, shared meals and time for social connection.

The rhythm varies according to the children’s ages, developmental needs and the season. Some days may include gardening, nature study, practical-life activities, workshops or longer projects.

GROW is a multilingual and multicultural community, with local and international families from a wide range of backgrounds. Italian and English are both present within the life of the school.

Children encounter language naturally through daily communication, relationships, stories, songs, lessons and practical activities. Each age group has both Italian and English speaking teachers.

Yes. Children can join GROW without already speaking Italian. Educators support understanding through visual materials, demonstrations, hands-on activities, predictable routines and individual guidance.

Daily immersion and interaction with other children help Italian develop naturally over time. Each child’s transition is approached with care so that they can feel secure, included and able to participate from the beginning.

Yes. Many children at GROW grow up speaking more than one language. Our multilingual environment allows different languages and cultural backgrounds to be a natural part of everyday school life.

Social and emotional development is considered an essential part of education. Children are supported in expressing their feelings, communicating respectfully, resolving conflicts, collaborating and taking responsibility for themselves and their community.

Time outdoors, mixed-age relationships and meaningful participation in daily life also help children build confidence, resilience and a strong sense of belonging.

We aim to welcome each child with respect for their individual rhythm, background and way of learning. Our educators use observation, prepared environments and differentiated guidance to help children participate meaningfully.

Because every child’s needs are different, families are invited to discuss specific learning, developmental or language requirements with us before enrollment. When additional specialist or one-to-one support is needed, this may need to be arranged separately.

Senior Montessori guides are selected for their recognized Montessori qualifications, classroom experience, pedagogical clarity and ability to create calm, well-prepared learning environments.

We also look for educators who can integrate Montessori principles with outdoor education, experiential learning and collaborative team practice.

Children of compulsory school age follow an educational path that covers the key competencies of the Italian national curriculum.

When an annual esame di idoneità is required, GROW supports children in preparing for it and guides families through the relevant administrative process. Preparation is integrated thoughtfully into the learning programme so children can approach the assessment with knowledge, confidence and calm.

Enrollment currently covers five days per week, from 8:00 to 16:00. The school generally follows the Italian national school holiday calendar.

For confirmed term dates and holiday closures for the upcoming school year, please consult the enrollment information or contact the team.

Yes. Tuition includes an organic, home-cooked lunch and snacks, together with basic learning materials. Families will be informed if particular books or additional materials need to be purchased separately.

For the 2026/27 school year, the current published fee is €370 per month, paid across ten months, plus a €200 annual enrollment fee.

Families can begin by completing the enrollment form or contacting GROW directly. We recommend getting to know one another before enrollment so we can understand your child, answer your questions and determine whether GROW is the right fit for your family.

Contact: info@grownoto.it
Telephone: +39 352 053 4653

Yes. GROW is part of an established community of local and international families living in and around Noto. Many are based in Sicily throughout the year.

Beyond school hours, families connect through seasonal celebrations, nature outings, workshops and informal community activities. Participation is welcomed but is not intended to feel like an obligation.

GROW is held and guided by a committed group of parents together with the owner of Il Roveto. Families are invited to contribute ideas, skills and initiatives to community life in ways that feel genuine and manageable.

Creating continuity beyond the elementary years is part of GROW’s longer-term vision. The project intends to grow organically alongside the children and families already within the community.

The timing and structure of a future middle-school group will depend on family needs, enrollment and the continued development of the project.