To mark the 200th anniversary of the birth of Carlo Collodi, Marco Polo – The Italian School of Sydney presents a cultural program celebrating the author of The Adventures of Pinocchio.

The program includes a number of events throughout the year and complements the 26th Week of the Italian Language in the World, whose 2026 theme is “Lingua geniale: ideare, progettare, creare con l’italiano”.

Marco Polo’s major end-of-school-year cultural and professional development event will celebrate the bicentenary of Carlo Collodi through presentations, discussions and workshops exploring the literary, linguistic, educational and cultural legacy of Pinocchio.

Keynote Speakers

Dr Andrea Pagani – Monash University
Lecturer and researcher in Italian Studies and an expert on Carlo Collodi, with research focusing on school literature, Italian national identity and the educational, linguistic and cultural dimensions of Collodi’s work.

Mr Lucio Fioretti
Educator, Italian language teacher and theologian by passion. Drawing on the writings of Giacomo Biffi, Fioretti explores the spiritual and theological dimensions of Pinocchio and their connections with faith, education and Italian culture.

Workshops for Students and Teachers

Pinocchio-themed workshops for children and school-aged students will run alongside the main presentations. Afternoon workshops for teachers and the wider community will provide opportunities to explore Collodi’s work from literary, educational, linguistic and cultural perspectives.

Marco Polo Awards 2026

The event will also feature the presentation of the Marco Polo Awards 2026 for Excellence in Italian Language and Culture in NSW Schools, recognising outstanding students and teachers for their contribution to the learning, teaching and promotion of Italian language and culture across New South Wales.

Participation is free. Advance registration is required.
Morning tea, refreshments and a buffet lunch will be provided.

Full programme and registration details coming soon.