The Scuola Media and Liceo Linguistico Europeo at the Istituto del Sacro Cuore Trinita' dei Monti, Roma : an evaluation

Abstract

The Istituto del Sacro Cuore is an educational institution which knows its origins in early nineteenth century France. The Institute, uniquely located at Piazza Trinita' dei Monti in Rome, comprises a Scuola Materna, a Scuola Elementare, a Scuola Media and a Liceo Linguistico Moderno Europeo. This Long-Essay is an evaluation of the Upper School which offers an Istruzione Secondaria di Primo e Secondo Grado. The Lower School Unit has a totally different administration and embraces quite separate rules and polices. Strategic planning at school, together with "Quality Management", are the driving force with which the school continues to enjoy a positive ethos, earned through the ages. The educational agenda of the school has become increasingly dominated for quality and thus for school improvement. Besides, empowerment enables the teaching staff to be active participants by appreciating, sharing and challenging. I found this particular aspect extremely interesting since Maltese schools are aiming at decentralisation. Decentralisation and teacher empowerment go hand in hand. Of absorbing interest was exploring how a Liceo Linguistico is managed. Certain strategies applied could easily be implemented in Maltese schools where the study of languages is given due importance.