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Author: Development

Grandpa Einstein has the magic of physics. Author and physicist Eleonora Tommasi meets primary school children.

Written by Sviluppo on . Posted in Blog, La Scuola.

From the structure of the atom to the curvature of Spacetime, from the fundamental principles of Quantum Mechanics to the concepts of antimatter and gravity.

Eleonora Tommasi, graduating with honours from the Faculty of Physics at the University of Salento, met the first and second Primary school of the International House Oxford Institute in Lecce.

The book

Story after story, the funny and brilliant Grandpa Einstein Accompany young readers on a journey of revealed mysteries, amazing adventures, and magic spells.

Here, physics hides around every corner, amidst laughter and wonder, science transforms into magic… and the world becomes a grand experiment just waiting to be explored!

The authoress

Eleonora Tommasi, born 1979, she specialises in Medical Physics: a researcher for the National MAGIC-V Group of the I.N.F.N. (National Institute for Nuclear Physics), she teaches Mathematics and Physics in numerous Italian high schools and higher education institutes. 

His meeting with the young pupils of the Oxford Institute in Lecce was full of suggestions.“I found children who were attentive, interested, curious, and capable of relating to the world of physics with dexterity and a touch of imagination!” stated the author and physicist.

“The experiments carried out by Eleonora Tommasi with our children are very reminiscent of Maria Montessori's method, where learning is closely linked to the experimentation of the world around them, the observation of nature in all its forms.”they declared The female teachers who were present with the children at the interesting meeting.

Are you an English teacher? Our free webinars are for you

Written by Sviluppo on . Posted in Blog, La Formazione.

We know how difficult it can be for teachers to maintain high levels of attention in the classroom and to find Always new ideas!

For this reason International House Oxford Lecce, come Cambridge Platinum Centre, organise Free training events for English teachers.

No boring theory: we're here to discover the latest teaching trends and provide practical insights to engage young people, always finding new motivations!

Our proposals, curated by our educational directors, I am:

The dates

04 March 2026 – 15:30 – 16:30 –  Listening skills and strategies
26 March 2026 - 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM Innovative Methodologies for Language Teaching: Empowering 21st Century Learners
17 April 2026 – 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM – Techniques to reduce L1 in the classroom
6 May 2026 – 15:30 – 16:30 – Next-Level Teaching: Building Dynamic, Learner-Centred Classrooms
27 May 2026 – 15:30 – 16:30 – Activities to incorporate movement in your lessons

How to book

Booking is very simple, just click on the Link and fill in the form.

We look forward to seeing you!

Cambridge events in Lecce with the International House Oxford Group

Written by Sviluppo on . Posted in Blog, La Formazione, Le certificazioni.

Every year Cambridge English organise events and webinars on Professional development for teachers throughout Italy.

Cambridge English is an institution accredited by the MIM (Ministry of Education and Merit) for the training of school personnel pursuant to Directive 170 of 21/3/2016, Article 1, Paragraph 5.

Attending the seminars National and Regional (online or in person) entitles you to a Certificate of Attendance valid as ministerial exemption, sent by email, within 72 hours of the end of the event.

10 and 11 March 2026 in Lecce

The next stop is in Lecce, at the’Hotel Centro Congressi Leone di Messapia on the provincial road Lecce-Cavallino.

IH Oxford here Cambridge Platinum Centre – the first recognised in Puglia in 2010, organised in collaboration with Cambridge English two free events to discover the latest teaching trends and find the best way to engage young people in the classroom

Goodbye to boring theory in language learning, Cambridge helps you keep teenagers' attention levels high!

The events are on the dedicated Cambridge portal and will be 10th and 11th March next, from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

Click to discover the programme for the two days

How to register

There are only a few days left to register. Simply click on the following links dedicated to the two training days to book a place:

Cambridge Meets Lecce: Creative Thinking in the Classroom / Engaging Young Learners

Cambridge Meets Lecce: Integrated Learning and Assessment/ Making the Most of Your Coursebook

At the close of the activities, participants will be able to stop by the IH Oxford Lecce stand to exchange ideas and learn about Online training courses at IH Oxford Group Lecce!

Fridays in the garden of International House Oxford Lecce

Written by Sviluppo on . Posted in Blog, La Scuola.

“We give the world to the child,” he/she/they argued Maria MontessoriInspired by this warning, the teachers at the IH-Oxford nursery school opened the classroom doors onto the school's garden.

The process of learning and growth, therefore, did not stop within the walls of the classroom, which was populated every day, but went beyond, under the blue of the sky and the green of the pomegranate trees.

Every Friday, indeed, the children put on their colourful raincoats, slip on their cheerful wellington boots and are ready for A thousand and one adventures. The young pupils discover a myriad of insects, observe the colour of leaves and their fantastic shapes, share secrets with a special “telephone”, prepare cakes and pizzas, sift, count, group, and divide, perceiving with all their senses. In short, a free environment that promotes and reinforces their precious creativity.

This appointment fits perfectly with the Montessori philosophy according to which the child needs both nature to reconnect with it, and movement as a means for true learning.

Learning that takes place outdoors, allowing children to move freely and explore with every part of their body, becomes joyful, pleasant learning that will remain with them for life.

The appointment is fixed and regular, and the children now await it with the joy and enthusiasm that allow them to develop a eco-responsible behaviour and to internalise the rules, rituals and timings that belong to this place.

Next Friday, to the next adventure with the awareness that “Children and gardens are alike. A garden is never today what it was yesterday. Neither is a child. One moment and it has already changed.”, as we read in the book by Beatrice Manni and Francesca Ballarini in the book “Children and Gardens”.

curated by educationalist Francesca Guido and the team from the International House Oxford Lecce Nursery School

Early Years Educators, Montessori diploma ceremony at IH Oxford Lecce

Written by Sviluppo on . Posted in I Corsi.

Last Saturday, January 17th, the trainees of the Specialised course for early years educators, organised by the’ National Montessori Organisation in collaboration with the’Oxford Cultural Association, received their diplomas from the hands of the Course Director, Emanuele Sponsiello, the Scientific Coordinator Anna Grazia Buttazzo, the Headteacher of IC Mazzini Modugno Mariella Dentamaro, and the Training Lecturer, Fernanda Bernabei.

Last June's exams

So much excitement for the 28 female participants who attended the course in its edition at the Mazzini Modugno Comprehensive Institute. The exams were taken on 21st and 22nd June 2025.

The path that concluded so successfully was not only a formative moment rich in content and value, but also a life experience that positively marks those who choose to become Montessori educators or teachers.

Courses from the Opera Nazionale Montessori and IH Oxford

The’ Oxford Association of Lecce has organised courses dedicated to the Montessori method for years, which bear the insignia of’National Montessori Opera of Rome.The new edition, dedicated to 18 trainees for the Early Years Educators course, 28 aspiring nursery school teachers, and 24 trainees for the primary school teachers course, started in Lecce on 11th October.

A qualification that is not just a nice certificate to frame, but one that represents a important milestone in the professional life of those who embrace the teachings of Maria Montessori and choose to make them their own in the fundamental work alongside children.

Study abroad: IH Oxford Group Lecce's 2026 destinations

Written by Sviluppo on . Posted in Blog, Vacanze Studio.

Experience English abroad with IH Oxford Group Lecce.

Selected language schools in the UK, Ireland, USA, Dubai, and Tokyo, offering quality English lessons, a rich programme of cultural and social activities, and unforgettable excursions.
The boys leave from Lecce accompanied by a IH Oxford Group Lecce, always by your side for the entire duration of your stay.

2026 Destinations: From Europe to the World

Canterbury, Dublin, London, Stirling, and then the United States with Los Angeles, New York and Chicago, finally arriving in Dubai and Tokyo.

With the Study abroad programmes for teenagers of International House Oxford Group Lecce Offer your child a real life experience, not just a study abroad programme:

  • English lived every day in real situations
  • new wonderful cities to discover safely
  • An authentic international atmosphere that encourages the use of English with students from different countries.

If you live in Lecce, in the Salento or in Puglia and you're looking for a Safe and well-organised study abroad programme, Our proposals start directly from the city, with trusted guides.

An authentic and safe international experience

We carefully select schools and destinations where young people can experience a Authentic international climate, according to the standards of the language schools in the circuit International House:

  • English lessons with Certified teachers
  • controlled structures and environments designed for young people
  • watch out for food, to comfort and to any particular needs
  • IH Oxford Group Lecce chaperones always present with the group, from departure to return.

In addition to this, there are excursions and experiences to discover enchanting places, often seen only in films: walks in London or Dublin, university campuses, great metropolises like New York or Los Angeles, to unique destinations such as Dubai and Tokyo.

Personal growth, not just language

One Study trip abroad to help boys grow not only linguistically but also personally:

  • learning to orient themselves in a new context
  • they compare themselves with different habits and lifestyles
  • build International friendships which often continue well beyond the summer.

All of this becomes an important foundation for their future, because it helps them develop essential skills: an open mind, autonomy, the ability to communicate in English, which they will need as citizens of tomorrow.

Similar experiences are the first step in preparing your child to move confidently in international academic and professional contexts, whilst at the same time high-quality education at advantageous conditions for families in our area.

Would you like to know more? Online catalogue and information meetings in Lecce

If you want to discover our proposals in detail Study abroad 2026:

To help you understand if it's the right choice for your family, we invite you to our Information meetings at the IH Oxford Group Lecce headquarters, in via Adriatica 10, Lecce:

During meetings you can:

  • to know the companions
  • To see in detail the destinations and organisation of study trips
  • Ask all questions that you and your child feel are important.

If you are looking for a Study abroad for young people from Lecce and Salento, this is the right time to inform yourself and calmly choose the ideal destination for Summer 2026.

A journey into Salento's agri-food excellence between Cantine Paolo Leo and Birra Salento for IH Oxford students

Written by Sviluppo on . Posted in Blog, La Scuola.

On 5 November 2025, pupils from the classes First and second years of lower secondary school they took part in the project's first educational outing “A Journey into the Excellence of Salento's Agri-food Sector”, a day of discovery and learning dedicated to the world of wine and beer production, two excellences of our region.

Morning at the winery at Cantine Paolo Leo in San Donaci

The morning took place at the Cantine PaoloLeo in San Donaci, where the youngsters were able to experience something unique firsthand amidst the aromas of the barrels and the colours of the grapes. Guided by industry experts, the students explored the winemaking processes up close, observing the tools and machinery that make the transformation of grapes into wine possible. They also took part in engaging educational workshops – The little winemaker, Hands in dough e The Enoian painter – which have allowed them to learn while having fun, while developing scientific, manual and creative skills.

Afternoon at the brewery at Birra Salento in Leverano

In the afternoon, the visit continued at the brewery Salento Beer in Leverano. Here, the students traced the birth of the brand and the philosophy that inspires it, discovering the secrets of artisan beer production: from the raw ingredients grown in the adjacent fields to the processing and fermentation stages. The experience concluded with the screening of a video that retraced the production process they had just observed, offering an effective and engaging summary.

The exit was highly appreciated by the students, which have been able to concretely observe how technological innovation intertwines with agricultural and artisanal tradition. The activity has also allowed us to address some Economic and bureaucratic aspects linked to the management of a modern farm, offering food for thought on the commitment, passion and determination required to transform an idea into a successful business venture.

Both companies visited represent two excellent examples of how the bond with the land and family can coexist with a strong entrepreneurial vision, generating excellence that is recognised and appreciated far beyond the borders of Salento. An intense and significant day, which left the young people with curiosity, enthusiasm, and a renewed sense of belonging to their territory.

curated by lecturer Salvatore Papa

Two new ways to improve your English in Lecce: the Language Lab and the IH Oxford Group Lecce Chat Room

Written by Sviluppo on . Posted in Blog, I Corsi.

Have you already started or are you about to start a English course with us? From this year, those who attend our English language courses at IH Oxford Group in Lecce will be able to count on two exclusive services designed to help you learn to speak English better and consolidate everything you learn in class: the Language Lab and the Chat Room.

What is the Language Lab of IH Oxford Group Lecce?

The Language Lab it is a space dedicated to students of English language courses who want to strengthen their Four language skillslistening, reading, writing, and speaking, with direct teacher support. It is perfect if you want to clarify some topics covered during lessons, revise for an exam to obtain language certification, or simply practice speaking and listening in English in a more targeted way.

In our Language Lab in Lecce you can do Cambridge exam simulations, consolidate grammar and receive personalised advice from tutors. It's like having a private, tailored lesson within your group course, in a motivating and relaxed environment. Those who participate in the Language Lab will have an extra opportunity to clarify doubts and practice to feel more confident and use English more naturally, both within English courses at school and in private, academic, or work life.

What is the IH Oxford Group Lecce Chat Room?

Would you like to practice in English conversation and feel more comfortable when speaking? The Chat Room is the place for you. It's about spontaneous conversation lessons with fun speaking activities with native-speaking teachers, designed to help you Speak English more confidently, improve pronunciation and better understand spoken English.

The IH Oxford Group's Chat Room is a pleasant and informal way to practise what you learn in class, compare notes with other students, and gain fluency in real-life situations, at work, while travelling or in your free time. A genuine English conversation experience in Lecce, useful for building confidence with spoken English and feeling more at ease.

Why attend an IH Oxford Group Lecce English course

The Language Lab and the Chat Room are designed for those who attend our courses of a group and want to give their language learning journey an extra boost. They offer the chance for constant practice with qualified teachers, personalised exercises to consolidate skills, real conversations to improve fluency and pronunciation.

These two new services are not private lessons or separate English tutoring, but integrated activities that make your English language course or language certification preparation even more effective and dynamic.

Improve your English with International House Oxford Group Lecce

VCome and discover our English courses in Lecce and take advantage of the Chat Room and the Language Lab to improve your English speaking and listening skills, with the support of our native-speaking tutors.

Contact us now to do the Free level test and book your place, we await you at Via Adriatica 10, Lecce. Telephone 0832 390312, email info@oxfordlecce.it.

Or fill in the form you find Who and we'll contact you within 24 hours.

The new edition of the Teaching Specialisation Courses inspired by the Maria Montessori Method has begun in Lecce.

Written by Sviluppo on . Posted in Blog, La Formazione.

The’ Oxford Association of Lecce has organised courses dedicated to the Montessori method for years, which bear the insignia of’National Montessori Opera of Rome And the new edition kicked off in Lecce on 11 October last with the first online lesson of the theoretical module.

In Italy, in fact, the only centre authorised to train Montessori teachers is the’National Montessori Organisation which, through courses and seminars, trains teachers who wish to base their educational method on the principles of Maria Montessori.

The first lesson was given by the scientific coordinator of the courses, Anna Grazia Buttazzo, who welcomed the female participants who, specifically, are 18 for the Early Childhood Educators course, 28 for Kindergarten teachers, 24 for the Primary School teachers course.

“Courses created and completed in these years – stated the trainer from the Opera Nazionale Montessori Anna Grazia Buttazzo – have led to respectable results, training enthusiastic and capable teachers, ready to implement the Montessori teachings to the best of their ability, which are aimed at fostering the men and women of tomorrow to grow in serenity and awareness. A true life path as well as a didactic training course.”.

Once the theoretical module, which is held online, has been completed, The lessons will continue in person according to the established calendar, at the premises of International House Oxford Lecce at Via Adriatica 10 in Lecce.

The courses

Therefore the routes are divided into 3 typologiese:
Early years educators (age range 0-3 years)
Nursery school teachers (age range 3-6 years)
Primary school teachers (age range 6-11 years)

It is useful to note that, even once the course has started, it is possible to enrol no later than 24th October 2025. To download the useful documentation, Click here

For Officine Mezzogiorno, the 2nd and 3rd year classes of Oxford Secondary School were the stars of the event

Written by Sviluppo on . Posted in Blog, La Scuola.

Thursday 25 September 2025, from 9.00 am to 1.00 pm, classes II and III of the Oxford Middle School enthusiastically took part in the final event of the project For The Southern Workshops, held at the Officine Cantelmo in Lecce.

A rich daily programme

The morning opened with a Coding workshop, during which IT experts guided the youngsters in discovering the programme Scratch and of the Basic programming of a Micro:bit board. Thanks to the PCs provided by the organisation, the pupils were able to try their hand at writing their first simple codes directly, thus practically experiencing the potential of digital technologies.

Following this, the boys tested themselves in an activity of design and construction truly original: using simple materials – sheets of paper, sticky tape, glue, scissors, and even spaghetti – they created Bridges and towers. Led by industry specialists, the pupils worked in teams until the final challenge: determining which bridge could bear the most weight and which spaghetti tower would reach the most impressive height.

At the end of the morning, each student received a Certificate of individual merit, in recognition of the work done and the commitment shown.

A great opportunity for young pupils

The experience was of great educational value not only for the direct approach to STEAM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics), but also for the relational aspect. In fact, students from another middle school in Lecce also took part in the initiative, and this allowed for a moment of Meeting, collaboration, and inclusion, With a view to entering upper secondary school in the future, where each student will find themselves sharing their journey with new classmates.

A precious opportunity, then, to grow together, learning by doing and opening our gaze to the future.

curated by the responsible teacher Salvatore Papa