Questions from Antonella answered by Liz

Is there a curriculum document for the PYP? I couldn't access it from the site. From what I've read, it seems far less rigid than what I'm used to - how refreshing!

I was also thinking about the apartments and wondering what they were like? Are they located near amenities like grocery stores, banks, bus stations etc.? Also, what do you think about living Milan? I've heard so many different things but I guess you never really know until you actually experience it for yourself.

Hi Antonella,

The best thing about our school for any teacher who has North American public school teaching is that it is much less rigid and if you have an idea or a way you like to teach, then it is open to you to try new things. It really is a great working environment for people with experience who have always had ideas but are caught in a curriculum model that does not let them try them. I attached a small booklet from the PYP that gives an overview on the philosophy, our school's Program of Inquiry which is fancy speak for our year long curriculum, and a sample of one of our year 1 planners. Hope this helps but please don't spend too much time looking at it. You will have plenty of time next September. :)

As for living in Milan, the apartments are really nice and spacious. They are not what you hear about european houses and are spacious and places that you could live for many years. They all have a washing machine and dishwasher along with a full bathroom with shower and bath. They are all within some type of an apartment complex/building within walking distance to school and all the necessities. I usually walk to the grocery store, ten minutes, and then take a tram home because I am too lazy to carry my groceries. We live in a neighbourhood that has everything you could need from dry cleaners to shoe repair, to cafes and pizzerias. To get to the center of Milan and the famous Duomo and shopping area in 30 minutes door to door and it costs one euro!! Milan is a very safe city and the only danger is downtown in the large tourist areas there are the usual pick-pockets looking to get an unsuspecting soul. I have never even been aware of them and as long as you are street smart then it is fine. I travel the metro by myself all the time even at night. It is a large city and as long as you are street smart and careful, you should have no problems.

As for the food in Milan, you can easily eat out every night but I am not sure your clothes would still fit. :) Good typical family run restaurants will cost you about 15 euros for a meal including wine. It is really cheap here compared to Ontario I think also because you don't tip and there is no tax.