
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common questions about our courses, pricing, and services
From January 2026, we’ll offer three classes:
– Reception–Year 1 (Intermediate)
– Year 2–Year 3 (Intermediate)
– Year 8–Year 9 (GCSE)
Classes are organised by both age and Italian level.
No — GCSE and A-Level preparation are part of our Saturday School programme. From Year 8 onwards, students may be placed in a GCSE-level class if they’re ready. These classes focus on grammar, writing, reading, and exam preparation (AQA, Edexcel, or other boards).
We work with four internal levels:
Base – for children who don’t speak or understand Italian
Intermedio – for those who understand but speak little or use short replies
Avanzato – for those who understand and speak Italian confidently, regardless of grammar
GCSE – for older students who already speak fluently and want structured exam preparation
Not all levels are active each term. If you're unsure of your child’s level, we can assess and advise.
Classes take place at Hills Road Sixth Form College in Cambridge. You may drop your child off up to 15 minutes before class, but supervision begins only when a teacher is present.
Only a parent or authorised adult listed on your registration form may collect your child. Please notify us in writing if someone else is collecting them.
Once you complete the registration form, we’ll send you an invoice. The full fee must be paid in advance to confirm your child’s place. We don’t offer drop-ins or pay-as-you-go. A 10% sibling discount applies if more than one child is enrolled.
If you are registering more than one child, please get in touch to receive a customised invoice with the discount.
No — we don’t offer trial lessons in this format, as planning and staffing depend on confirmed enrolment numbers.
Yes — if there’s still space. We’ll calculate a pro-rata fee for the remaining lessons and help you find the right group.
Classes are confirmed once a minimum number of students enrol. If a class can’t run, we may suggest an alternative group or offer a full refund.
You have a 14-day cooling-off period after payment. During this time, you can cancel for a full refund (as long as no class has been attended). After that, refunds are only given in exceptional cases at the discretion of the Director.
We’ll offer either a replacement session or a pro-rata refund for any cancelled lesson.
Not all age groups and levels run each term. If your preferred group is full or inactive, contact us and we'll either offer alternatives or ask you if you would like to join a waiting list.
Our approach changes with each age group and level. To learn more, visit the page for your child’s class.
In general, younger children learn through play, games, songs, and storytelling. Older students work more on conversation, reading, writing, and grammar — especially in GCSE-level groups. We prioritise confidence, communication, and enjoyment. We also use a house points system to encourage motivation, teamwork and consistency.
Yes. We ask that children behave respectfully and follow instructions. Persistent disruptive behaviour may lead to removal from the course (with a partial refund). Snacks must be nut-free, and we only allow water as a drink. Any safeguarding concerns should be raised with the school Director or Lead Tutor.
Only with explicit parental consent. You’ll be asked to indicate your preferences on the registration form.

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