At Canadian College Italy (CCI), we believe that a truly world-class education happens both inside and outside the classroom. While our rigorous Ontario curriculum prepares students for the world’s top universities, it is The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award (DofE) that shapes their character, resilience, and a deep sense of independence.
The DofE is the "backbone" of our extracurricular program. We are incredibly proud of our 100% student participation rate, a testament to how deeply this journey of self discovery is woven into our living classroom in Italy.

A Personalized Journey of Discovery

The DofE is not a competition against others, but a personal challenge. Students aged 14 to 18 choose their own goals across three progressive levels—Bronze, Silver, and Gold. The program is built on four fundamental pillars, each enhanced by the rich culture and authentic experiences available to our students in Italy:

1. Skills: "Study like a Canadian. Live like an Italian." This is where our students truly immerse themselves in local culture. While they can choose from a wide variety of interests—including pottery, music, chess, photography, or learning Italian—, our two signature programs offer a deep, mindful exploration of identity and tradition:

● Cucina (The Art of Italian Cooking): More than a cooking class, this is the mindful study of food as an expression of culture, history, and wellbeing. Guided by professional chefs, students participate in formal demos to master traditional techniques and kitchen safety. They visit local producers and agriturismi to understand the connection between land and table, eventually transforming this knowledge into autonomy by cooking for friends in our residence kitchens.

● Sartoria (Fashion & Personal Style): In Italy, style is a language that communicates identity and cultural awareness. Under the guidance of professional style consultants, students explore essential concepts of fit, proportion, and contemporary trends. They can choose to design a garment working directly with local tailors or follow a guided sourcing path to select quality pieces with intention and budget awareness. This journey of self-knowledge often culminates with a professional photoshoot.

2. Physical Activity: Whether it’s sailing on the Adriatic Sea, practicing yoga, or playing soccer at local facilities, our students stay active while enjoying the stunning landscapes that surround Lanciano. From tennis and scuba diving to horseback riding, there is an activity to satisfy every interest.

3. Voluntary Service: A Culture of Giving Back. We foster empathy and leadership through community involvement. Our students contribute over 3,800 hours of community service annually. Whether volunteering at a local dog shelter, tutoring children in English, or participating in environmental cleanups, these experiences build a deeper connection to Lanciano. Importantly, these hours also count toward the 40 required for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).

4. The Adventurous Journey: The Ultimate Test. Often the highlight of the year, students plan and execute an outdoor expedition—ranging from two days for Bronze to longer treks for Silver and Gold. This can involve navigating with maps, pitching tents, and cooking meals outdoors. By stepping completely out of their comfort zones, students gain lifelong self-reliance, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

Why Families and Universities Love It

For families, the DofE provides peace of mind. It ensures that while their children are earning a globally recognized diploma, they are also developing the "soft skills"—adaptability, leadership, and self-management—that universities and future employers prize most.

Universities worldwide recognize the prestige of this award. A CCI graduate doesn't just arrive at university with a globally recognized diploma; they arrive with the maturity and global network that only comes from living within an international community in the heart of Europe.

Is your child ready for the adventure of a lifetime? At Canadian College Italy, we combine academic excellence with personal discovery to help every student find their path to independence, both inside and outside the classroom.