At what age can children begin attending the Italian language and culture courses?
Children attending primary school and lower secondary school are admitted to the Italian language and culture courses.
Children in the second year of the Kindergarten are also admitted conditionally. In this case, it is necessary to contact the course teacher to verify whether the size of the group and the maturity of the child allow enrolment.
What does "Elementary and intermediate level courses" mean?
The elementary or primary level courses are intended for children attending the first five years of primary school and, where conditions allow, also for those in the 2nd year of the Kindergarten. The intermediate or secondary level courses are intended for pupils in the sixth year of primary school and those in the first two years of lower secondary school. Pupils in the third year of lower secondary school are also admitted in order to complete their preparation for the language certification examination.
What does "HSK courses" mean?
The acronym comes from the German Kurse in Heimatlicher Sprache und Kultur and means courses in the language and culture of origin.
How much does it cost to attend the HSK courses?
The HSK courses run by CASLI are funded through a substantial contribution from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which covers approximately 67 % of the costs. For the remaining 33% a registration fee is charged, calculated as follows:
- 200 CHF per pupil and school year;
- 350 CHF for two siblings and school year;
- 450 CHF for three or more siblings and school year.
The C.A.S.L.I. sends families a payment slip before the start of the school year.
What does language certification mean?
Language certification refers to an official certificate of proficiency in Italian, valid for work and study purposes, which attests to the skills and abilities in the use of the Italian language according to the learning objectives specified within the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) of the Council of Europe and broken down by it into six levels, from A1 to C2.
Pupils who wish to do so are prepared, during the final year of the intermediate level, for the language certification examination (PLIDA or CELI). For this examination it is necessary to register and pay a separate fee.
Request all the information about Italian language and culture courses for your children in your area.
