Forty years of teaching Italian, bringing cultures together and, above all, connecting people. Solemar Academy, an ASILS member school based in Cefalù, celebrated its 40th anniversary with three days of festivities dedicated to everyone who has helped shape its story.

From 1986 to today: a story of growth and quality

Solemar’s story began in 1986 with a small Italian language school, basic resources and plenty of enthusiasm. At the time, most students were German speakers, and the school promoted its courses mainly through leaflets distributed at universities in Germany.

Over the years, the school has grown, welcoming an increasingly international community and developing activities and services that go beyond the traditional language stay.

In 2012, the second generation took over, with Valerio at the helm. One of his first decisions was to join ASILS, an important step towards ever higher quality standards, greater professionalism and international recognition.

Today, Solemar Academy describes itself as a boutique Italian language school: small by choice, international in outlook and committed to the quality of both its teaching and the overall student experience.

Three days of celebrations together

To mark this milestone, Solemar organised three special days, each celebrating a different part of its community.

The festivities began with a celebratory toast at the school with students, teachers and staff, in the very place where people meet and new friendships begin every day.

A cooking masterclass with Gianni from MasterChef, organised for staff and collaborators, gave the team a chance to have fun, learn and share an experience beyond their usual routine.

A big pool party rounded off the celebrations, bringing together friends, family, students, staff and the wider Solemar community. Because in Sicily, even in October, you can still celebrate by the pool!

Putting people first, then and now

Throughout these forty years, Solemar has been guided by one belief above all: people’s wellbeing is the foundation of quality.

That means offering students excellent teaching and an authentic, welcoming experience. It also means valuing the teachers, staff and collaborators whose enthusiasm and professionalism make it all possible every day.

Celebrating with them in style was therefore the most natural way to honour forty years of history and look to the future with enthusiasm.

From everyone at ASILS, congratulations to Valerio and the Solemar Academy team on this wonderful milestone!