Middle School

Ages 12-14 | International Middle School in Rome | Year 7-9

student looking through a microscope while her teacher assists in the science classroom.

three students in uniform smiling together indoors.

Developing Independent Learners

Middle School at Rome International School (RIS) is the bridge between childhood and young adulthood. Beginning in Year 7, students build on the inquiry-led foundations established in Elementary School as they become more independent, embrace greater academic challenge, and take increasing ownership of their learning.

Drawing on global contexts and the internationally recognised Cambridge Secondary framework, the curriculum challenges students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and develop agency over their own learning. Supported by specialist teachers and personalised learning, students build the knowledge and skills needed for Cambridge IGCSE while keeping pathways open within both the international and Italian education systems.

Middle School Curriculum

Building on the pathways established in the RIS curriculum, students in Middle School follow the internationally recognised Cambridge Secondary framework, developing the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed for Cambridge IGCSE and future academic success.

At the end of Year 9, students complete Cambridge Checkpoint, an internationally benchmarked assessment in English, Mathematics, and Science. More than an assessment, it provides valuable insight into each student's progress and supports the transition into Cambridge IGCSE. Year after year, Cambridge Checkpoint results reflect the strength of the RIS Middle School programme, with students consistently achieving excellent progress in English, Mathematics, and Science.

Alongside the Cambridge Secondary curriculum, RIS offers an optional Italian pathway for families who wish to prepare for the Esame di Stato (Terza Media). Taught by experienced native-speaking teachers, this programme allows students to progress confidently within both the international and Italian education systems.

middle school students playing basketball

A Day in the Life at RIS Middle School

Experience Our Middle School

student assembling small robotics parts by hand in class

students walking down a staircase together laughing between classes

students relaxing and studying on the terrace between classes

students building robotics kits together at a desk

students studying together at an outdoor picnic table on campus

students sprinting on the track during sports day

young student in a rain jacket laughing and playing outdoors on the school lawn.

"I still remember when I first arrived at this school as a little elementary kid. This school has taught me the fundamentals of being a person - open minded, resilient, caring, knowledgeable and lastly respectful. So many of my first experiences happened here, such as participating in Sports Day, taking the Terza Media exam, competing in maths competitions, this school is what gave me the chance to live life. I can’t forget all my teachers, they all made these years enjoyable. I will have to say goodbye to RIS but it will always have a mountain of space in my heart, as the school that helped create who I am now."

- Davide Y. Year 9 Student

Enriching Every Learning Journey

Learning Environment & Community

Community – All students belong to a House system and attend weekly assemblies celebrate learning, achievements, and student talents.
Leadership – Students use their voice to shape the school through student council, class representatives, prefects, and eco-council.

Technology & Innovation

ICT in Action – Students develop digital literacy through hands-on, project-based learning.
CAD & 3D Design – Year 8 students use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create digital models.
3D Printing – Students bring their designs to life using 3D printing technology, applying creativity and problem-solving in a practical context.
RIS Space Lab – An innovative learning environment where students explore advanced digital tools and emerging technologies.

Languages

Language Choice – Students can choose to study French, Spanish, Arabic, or Chinese alongside the core curriculum.
Italian Pathway – An optional Italian curriculum enables students to prepare for the Esame di Stato (Terza Media).
Communication Skills – Language learning builds confidence and fluency across different contexts.
Global Perspectives – Students develop intercultural understanding through multilingual learning.

"From the very beginning, RIS felt like home for our daughter. Transferring schools in Year 8 could have been a daunting experience, but the warmth and support from teachers, staff, and classmates made all the difference. Over two years, we’ve been consistently impressed by the school’s personal approach to learning, the individual care for each student, and the wide range of enriching opportunities from academic competitions to sports including events beyond the official school programme (e.g. Academic Olympics in Spain, MUN, math competitions with other schools, volleyball tournaments, track and field events… and more). Watching our daughter grow in confidence, both as a student and as a young person, has been a joy. We are truly grateful to RIS for creating such a nurturing and inspiring environment."

- Year 9 Middle School Parent