The Italian section is one of the historic national sections of the Cité Scolaire Internationale (CSI) of Ferney-Voltaire. Created in 1975, just two years after the establishment of the first international sections, it reflects the strong presence of the Italian community in the Pays de Gex, closely linked to CERN’s international expansion.

From primary school to the Lycée, the Italian section allows children to grow up in a bilingual and bicultural environment, combining the French curriculum with courses in Italian language, literature, history and geography. This rich programme fosters both academic excellence and an enduring connection to Italian culture and roots. Students not only acquire a solid knowledge of the language, but also develop openness, tolerance, and intercultural skills — essential qualities for global citizens of tomorrow.

Already in primary school, pupils attend a three-hour weekly course in Italian language, history and geography. These classes are fully integrated into the French school system and officially recognised by the French Education Nationale. They provide a solid foundation for students who wish to enter the Italian section of the Collège, and ultimately to pursue their studies at the Lycée International.

For the primary level, AGASI plays a decisive role: it is responsible for selecting and employing the teachers, ensuring that their teaching is aligned both with the rhythm of the French curriculum and with Italian educational standards. The association also provides all the necessary teaching materials and contributes to the funding of continuing training courses for the teachers, either officially recognised by the Italian Ministry of Education (MIUR) or chosen to be directly relevant to their programme and pedagogical needs.

In Collège and Lycée, students follow the regular French curriculum enriched by six additional hours per week in Italian: four hours dedicated to language and literature, and two to history and geography. The programme is supervised by teachers appointed and funded by the Italian Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Consulate General of Italy in Lyon.

For collège and lycée students, AGASI’s contribution is particularly significant. Since teachers are not funded either by the French or Italian state, AGASI fully covers the costs of Italian teachers accompanying school trips and, at the same time, provides each student with a financial contribution to reduce their participation fees. The association also supports a wide range of educational and cultural projects, such as the annual Settimana della cultura italiana and many other initiatives that bring Italian heritage to life within the school.

The Italian section is supported by AGASI (Associazione dei Genitori degli Alunni della Sezione Italiana), a non-profit parents’ association founded in accordance with French law. Entirely run by volunteers, AGASI acts as a point of reference for families, ensures constant dialogue with teachers and school authorities, and promotes initiatives that enrich the students’ learning experience.

Throughout the year, the section celebrates Italian traditions and culture with events that involve both students and families. Annual highlights include “la pizzata” event for secondary students, the Befana celebration at primary school, and the end-of-year diploma ceremony, which is traditionally accompanied by a lively performance prepared by the primary classes.

Thanks to this close collaboration between teachers, families, the Consulate, and AGASI, the Italian section continues to guarantee a high-quality and recognised education — one that not only maintains strong ties with Italy but also prepares students for success in higher education and professional life in an increasingly international world.

Cristina Moretto, Presidente AGASI

For more information:

https://agasiferney.com/

agasi.ferney@gmail.com