Dear H-FARM International School Venice Families,
I hope this letter finds you well and that you’re enjoying these final days of summer with your families. As we stand on the threshold of a new academic year, I wanted to reach out and share some reflections as I step into my new role as Head of School.
For those who may not know me well yet, my name is Emiliano Cori. While I’m new to this role, I’ve been part of the H-FARM community as the Secondary School Principal, where I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the incredible potential of our students firsthand. This experience has deepened my belief in the importance of cultivating an environment where learning is not just a task, but a way of life.
At H-FARM, we are committed to building a school that prioritises a learning culture over a mere performance culture. In this learning culture, grades are not the end goal—they are the byproduct of curiosity, effort, and a genuine love for learning. It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure of numbers and rankings, but what truly matters is nurturing our students’ ability to think critically, ask meaningful questions, and develop a lifelong passion for discovery.
I’m inspired by the work of educators like Guy Claxton, who speaks about the importance of developing dispositions of mind—curiosity, resilience, and reflection—that are crucial for lifelong learning. Our goal at H-FARM is to help students learn how to learn, to approach challenges with a growth mindset, and to see mistakes not as failures but as opportunities to grow. This is the heart of what we do: we are not just preparing students for the next test or the next grade, but for life itself.
I want every student at H-FARM to feel that they are more than just a set of grades—they are thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers. We are committed to creating a space where they can explore their interests, take risks, and discover their passions. This doesn’t mean that grades aren’t important—they are. But they should reflect the hard work and deep learning that comes from engaging with the material, not just a measure of performance.
On this journey, your partnership is invaluable. I believe strongly in the power of community, and I am committed to fostering strong relationships between students, teachers, and families. Together, we can support our children in becoming not just successful students, but thoughtful, compassionate, and capable individuals who are prepared to face the world with confidence and curiosity.
As we begin this new school year, I encourage you to embrace this learning culture with us. Let’s focus on the process of learning, on the growth and development that happens along the way, and on the joy that comes from discovering new ideas and perspectives. My door is always open, and I look forward to working closely with you to make this year a transformative one for our students.
Thank you for entrusting us with your children’s education. I am truly excited about the possibilities this year holds, and I look forward to the many conversations and collaborations we will share in the months ahead.
With warm regards,
Emiliano Cori
Head of School
H-FARM International School Venice