Day two in Italy for Princess of Wales

The Princess of Wales begins the second day of her visit to Italy. 

Catherine, the Princess of Wales, has begun her second and final day in Italy. The Princess arrived at Salvador Allende Scuola dell’infanzia [Salvador Allende pre‑school] to observe how nature‑based learning is embedded within the Reggio Emilia Approach.

Upon arrival, the Princess was met by Federico Ruozzi, President of Infant Toddler Centres, and Annalisa Rabotti, Pedagogista at Reggio Children. The visit to the pre-school attracted crowds of locals and some international visitors to see Catherine undertake her first overseas visit in three years.

During the visit, the Princess attended an outdoor morning assembly, where she observed pupils collaboratively discussing and choosing their activities for the day. The future Queen also spent time meeting with educators whose commitment to nature shapes the school’s design and overall ethos. The visit highlighted the importance of attuned, attentive caregivers and the environment as “the third teacher”.

The Princess then joined students outside alongside atelierista Stefano Sturloni, who has been with the Istituzione of Preschools and Infant-toddler Centres since 1980. Stefano explained how educators use nature as part of the Reggio Emilia Approach and guided the Princess around the grounds. He also explained how the school incorporates its outdoor environment, including a willow tree and a bamboo forest, as part of its early development philosophy.

Catherine then met parents, grandparents and caretakers who volunteer at the school, to understand the strong community involvement that supports the pre-school. Salvador Allende Scuola dell’infanzia is a public infant-toddler centre and nursery school for children aged 0-6 and forms part of Reggio Emilia’s renowned municipal educational system. The school places particular emphasis on outdoor learning and environmental education.