We had the opportunity to interview Ms. Sarah Gallagher, the Executive Head of Marymount International School Rome. She discussed the role of innovation in education and how the school incorporates it into its programs. The school has introduced blended learning and virtual reality technology to enhance students’ learning experiences. Ms. Gallagher also talked about how the school fosters a sense of community and belonging among its students through the student council’s programs, activities, and initiatives.
Q.1 Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?
Sarah Gallagher: “Of course. I am Sarah Gallagher, the Executive Head of Marymount International School Roma, an international school in Rome, Italy. I grew up and was educated in Ireland. I received my Bachelor’s Degree, a Higher Diploma in Education, and a Master’s Degree in Ancient Classics at the National University of Ireland Galway. I pursued doctoral studies in the United States. I have been working in education for over 25 years, starting as a teacher of Latin and Greek as an Assistant Professor of Classics at Purdue University and later at Ball State University.
“After returning to the UK in 1995, I held various teaching posts in London, becoming Deputy Head (pastoral) and Head of Boarding at St Leonard’s-Mayfield School a Catholic Independent Boarding School for girls in East Sussex. I was appointed Executive Head of School for Marymount International School Rome in August 2016 and Headmistress of Marymount International School London in August 2010. Fam passionate about providing students with a high-quality international education and fostering a love of learning in all my students.”
Q.2 Can you tell us about Marymount International School Rome and what makes it unique?
Sarah Gallagher: “Marymount International School Rome is a co-educational, Catholic international school that provides students with a rigorous and we-rounded education. We offer programs for students from pre-kindergarten to twelfth grade and follow a curriculum that prepares students for success at top universities worldwide. Our faculty is highly qualified and dedicated to providing a supportive and challenging learning environment.
“What sets us apart is our focus on cultural diversity and our commitment to providing students with a global perspective. Our student body comes from over 50 countries, and we offer a variety of extracurricular activities including language classes, service loaming opportunities, and cultural excursions that help our students understand and appreciate the world around them.”
Q.3 Can you tell us about some initiatives & programs you have implemented at Marymount International School Rome?
Sarah Gallagher: “I am proud to say that I have implemented several programs to enhance our students’ educational experience. One of our most successful initiatives has been our STEM program. which provides students with hands-on learning experiences in science, technology. engineering. and mathematics. We have also introduced a language immersion program, which allows students to become fluent in a second language.
“Additionally, we have expanded our service learning program. allowing students to work with local organizations and positively impact their community. Those initiatives and our strong academic program provide our students with the skills and experiences they need to succeed in the 21st century.”
Q.4 Can you talk about the future of education and how Marymount International School Rome is preparing students for it?
Sarah Gallagher: “The future of education is constantly changing, and schools need to be flexible and adapt to these changes. At Marymount International School Rome, we prepare our students for the future by integrating technology into the classroom, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and encouraging creativity and innovation. We also strongly emphasize developing soft skills, such as communication, collaboration, and leadership which are essential for success in any field.
“In addition, we are committed to sustainability and environmental awareness and are incorporating these values into our curriculum and programs. By providing our students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for the future, we are confident they will succeed in whatever they choose.”
Q.5 Can you talk about the role of innovation in education and how Marymount International School Rome is incorporating it into its programs?
Sarah Gallagher: “Absolutely. Innovation is crucial in education, as it helps us to stay ahead of the curve and provide our students with the skills they need to succeed in the rapidly changing world. At Marymount International School Rome, we constantly explore new ways to incorporate technology and other innovative approaches into the classroom.
“The latest technology supports the learning environment, including Italy’s first Fabrication Laboratory in a private school. This space is designed for our 21st century digital natives and is built on the work of Professor Seymour Paper and his colleagues at MIT. Our program of studies is based on an international and American curriculum, culminating in the IB Diploma, which Marymount has offered for over 30 years. Additionally, we have implemented virtual reality technology in some subjects, such as history and geography to bring the material to life and engage our students in now and exciting ways.”
Q.6 That’s excellent to hear. Can you discuss how Marymount International School Rome prepares its students for university and beyond?
Sarah Gallagher: “At Marymount International School Rome, we strongly emphasize creating a welcoming and inclusive community for all our students. A sense of belonging is essential for academic success. and we strive to provide a supportive environment where all students feel valued and respected.
“To achieve this, we offer a variety of programs and activities that bring our students together, such as clubs, sports teams, and cultural events. Our student council is also active in promoting a sense of community, and our student led initiatives have positively impacted the school culture.
“Additionally, our homeroom program provides a supportive and nurturing environment for our students and helps to build strong relationships between students and teachers.”
Q.7 Please elaborate on how Marymount International School Rome fosters community & belonging among its students?
Sarah Gallagher: “At Marymount International School Rome, we intensely focus on university preparation and work closely with our students to help them achieve their academic and personal goals. Our curriculum is designed to prepare students for success at top universities worldwide, and we offer a variety of programs and resources to support this goal.
“For example, our extensive college counseling program guides students on university selection, admission processes, and scholarships. Our students also have the opportunity to participate in internships and service-learning programs. which give them hands-on experience in their field of interest and help to build their skills and confidence. Additionally, we encourage our students to participate in extracurricular activities such as clubs and sports, which help to round out their university applications and prepare them for life beyond the classroom.”
That’s excellent. Well, Ms. Gallagher, thank you for speaking with us today and sharing your insights on Marymount International School Rome, It was a pleasure to have you.
