A large poster with self-portraits celebrates the year. Big success for the first year of preschool with 74 enrollments and over 800 learning sessions
A school year to remember—captured on paper and in hearts
At Meyer Children’s Hospital in Florence, a class photo unlike any other now welcomes visitors to the ABF Educational Center. It’s not taken by camera, but drawn by hand: a mural of self-portraits created by over 400 children and teens who attended the hospital school this year. Their smiling faces, recreated with crayons and markers, tell the story of a year filled with learning, courage, and care.
The numbers behind the smiles: over 400 students, booming preschool participation
In total, 411 students attended Meyer’s hospital school during the 2023–2024 school year:
- 74 in preschool (ages 3–6)
- 135 in primary school
- 130 in lower secondary
- 72 in upper secondary
One of the most significant milestones was the debut of the preschool program, which counted over 800 sessionsdelivered in its very first year. The pilot was such a success that it will now become a permanent offering, with a second teacher joining next year.
Learning happens everywhere: from waiting rooms to bedside
At Meyer, the classroom takes many forms. Lessons are held not only in the schoolroom, but also in the playroom, waiting areas, and even directly in patients’ rooms, for those unable to move. Teachers, sometimes joined by university interns in education sciences, provide personalized instruction, maintaining constant contact with students’ regular schools to ensure continuity in learning and relationships.
A strong educational and healthcare network
The hospital school service at Meyer has existed for nearly 30 years. It allows hospitalized students to stay up-to-date with studies and even take official school exams. The structure includes:
- IC Poliziano for preschool and primary
- IC Masaccio for lower secondary
- Liceo Pascoli for upper secondary schools
This collaborative model is made possible by a protocol involving AOU Meyer Irccs, the Regional School Office of Tuscany, Amici del Meyer volunteers, the Meyer Foundation, and the Tuscany Central Health Authority.
FAQ
1. What is the Meyer hospital school?
An educational service for hospitalized children to continue their studies.
2. Who can attend the hospital school?
All patients aged 3 to 18 in Meyer Hospital.
3. How many students were served this year?
A total of 411 across all educational levels.
4. What’s the biggest new feature?
The opening of preschool classes for ages 3–6.
5. Where do classes take place?
In classrooms, waiting areas, playrooms, or directly in the hospital ward.
6. Who teaches the students?
Specialized hospital teachers and interns, in collaboration with students’ home schools.
7. Are exams available in the hospital?
Yes, students can sit both lower and upper secondary school state exams.
8. Is the service free?
Yes, it’s a public service provided to all young patients.
9. Which schools are involved?
IC Poliziano, IC Masaccio, and Liceo Pascoli.
10. Will the preschool service expand?
Yes, a second preschool teacher is set to join next year.
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