What Are Reggio Emilia Schools?
Reggio Emilia schools are independent schools based in Italy that have a child centred approach to their Early Years curriculum. The schools take their name from the northern Italian town in which they were founded, where community spirit is important and children are seen as being the collective responsibility of the state. The emergent approach means that the activities are child orientated rather then adult led, to instil pride in their own learning. The teachers are seen as learners, feeding their knowledge and observances back into the educational system, ensuring that it reaches the needs of the children’s expectations, rather than the adults. The environment is designed for children, with a focus on the presence of the natural environment. Plants and animals are a part of the school, and many of the activities are conducted outdoors, with nature itself being considered an important teacher. All projects are seen as long term. They are revisited and reworked, to provide children
