St. Francis International School Joins Ingenium Education Network, Strengthening Tradition and Innovation
St. Francis International School, one of Rome’s most established international institutions, has officially joined the Ingenium Education network—Italy’s first system of innovative international schools. The new partnership aims to reinforce the school’s long-standing tradition while supporting its evolution toward a more modern, data-driven educational model.With more than 40 years of experience, St. Francis has built a reputation for academic excellence and a warm, community-based environment. The school was founded by Mrs. Diane Proietti, who developed a unique educational philosophy inspired by Californian educators who settled in Rome in the 1960s. Located in northern Rome, between Trionfale and Cortina d’Ampezzo, St. Francis offers a complete academic pathway from early childhood through middle school, blending international curricula with Italy’s educational heritage.
A Small School with Big Achievements
“We are proud to partner with an institution that has long exemplified high-quality teaching and personalised attention to each student,” said Giovanni Piccolo, Head of Education at Ingenium. “St. Francis middle school graduates consistently excel in both national and international schools.”Piccolo emphasised that Ingenium is committed to preserving the school’s core values. “We recognise that we are inheriting a school philosophy as unique and special as its founder. We will continue to uphold academic rigor and the warm, family-like environment that ensures every student is truly known and supported.”
As part of the partnership, St. Francis students will also gain preferential access to the prestigious International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) offered by the nearby Acorn International School—providing new opportunities for university entry in Italy and abroad.
Innovation Meets Heritage
Ingenium Education, founded by Daniele Denti, aims to expand access to international education through rigorous academics, highly qualified native-speaking teachers, and modern, eco-friendly campuses.“The mission of Ingenium Education is to make international education more accessible and to promote academic excellence through a rigorous, innovative approach,” said Denti. “The integration of Universidata, our Data Science laboratory applied to education, further strengthens our model. We combine nature, culture, and advanced technology to create personalised learning paths for every student.”
The network’s philosophy aligns with St. Francis’ values, promising an evolution that respects the school’s identity while preparing it for the future.
A Synergy for the Next Generation
This new chapter marks a significant moment for both institutions: St. Francis brings decades of excellence and community tradition, while Ingenium contributes resources, innovation, and a broader educational vision. Together, they aim to shape a new model of international schooling rooted in quality, accessibility, and global-minded learning.
