REGULATIONS FOR HOME-SCHOOL STUDENTS
Welcome to the Pascal Institute and Holden Middle School!
We are delighted to welcome you to our school, where we firmly believe in the importance of homeschooling as a valid alternative to traditional schooling.
Our Pascal High School, a private school since 1976, offers the opportunity to take the aptitude tests for traditional scientific high school, linguistic high school, and high school specializing in humanities and social sciences.
The Holden Middle School, a private school since 2012, allows students to take the aptitude tests and the middle school diploma exam.
Over the years, we have distinguished ourselves by organizing exams for private candidates from preparatory schools in Piedmont and Northern Italy, as well as for homeschool groups. We offer a welcoming environment and comprehensive support, both educational and organizational, to ensure the best possible path for our students.
We look forward to seeing you!
The office is at your disposal.
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Testimonials
Caterina, mom of a girl in the Daisy group
Daisy
«We came from a parent-run group and were looking for a school that maintained that family-like atmosphere. My daughter settled in naturally at Daisy: she feels welcomed, is happy, and goes to school willingly.»
Greta, mother of a Holden student
Holden
My son came from a small educational setting organized by a group of parents, where he was used to learning alongside others in a family-like environment that respected his own pace. At Holden, he found that same sense of being truly known and heard, the joy of working in a group, and a direct relationship with his teachers. On top of that, he made new friends and gained the independence he needed to grow. Seeing him head off to school happy and at ease made us realize that the continuity we were looking for was actually possible.
Viviana's mother
Holden
We chose Holden as the ideal continuation of our parenting journey—spanning both nature and city environments—which is grounded in respect for the child's natural rhythms and physiology. At Holden, we found that same approach, enhanced for the pre-adolescent years. The curriculum features subjects taught in English, Chinese as a non-European language, volunteering, music, and sports. The teaching staff played a decisive role: they possess exceptional qualifications, demonstrating not only academic excellence but also profound human depth and character.
Ida, Mom of two kids, Daisy and Holden
Daisy - Holden
Our children came from a homeschooling background within a small group of families, so the transition to a more structured school was a delicate moment for us.
At Daisy and Holden, they immediately felt at ease. They found new friends, teachers they could truly engage with, and an environment where they could be themselves. Seeing them go to school happily and hearing them enthusiastically talk about their days made us realize we had chosen the right place.
In Italy, homeschooling, also known as parental education, is a legal option that allows parents to educate their children at home rather than enrolling them in a traditional school. However, there are certain regulations and procedures to follow.
Homeschooling is a significant choice and requires commitment and responsibility on the part of parents. It's essential to be properly informed about ministerial regulations. We'll try to explain the most important ones.

Pursuant to current education regulations, parents of homeschooled students are required to submit a declaration of commencement of homeschooling to the Headmaster of the relevant school (pertaining to their residence).
The declaration must be submitted by the established deadline and must contain information regarding the educational program you intend to undertake for your children. It is essential that this communication be made to ensure the proper fulfillment of compulsory education.
Please note that homeschooled students must take the required annual aptitude test by June 30th at the relevant state school or at another state or private school.
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To take the state exam concluding the first cycle of education (middle school leaving certificate), parents of homeschooled students must submit an application to register for the exam at a state or private school by March 20th.
Parents of students currently attending who wish to switch to homeschooling have until March 15th to withdraw their children from attendance, declaring their choice of homeschooling.
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Proficiency tests in the Italian education system are essential tools to ensure that students, whether homeschooled or enrolled in non-state-funded schools, can continue their education, allowing them to obtain qualifications equivalent to those obtained by students attending state or state-funded schools.
To be admitted to the next grade or level of education, they must take proficiency or graduation tests as external candidates at a state or state-funded school.
Homeschooled students must take an annual proficiency test. Parents are required to submit a prior notification each year to the Headmaster of their local area of residence. This test serves to verify compliance with compulsory education requirements and the skills acquired.
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Please note that participation in the INVALSI tests is one of the requirements for admission to the State Exam (middle school diploma). Homeschooled students must take the INVALSI tests at the state or private school where the exam is held.
