Princess of Wales kicks off second day in Italy with unique school visit

Princess Kate has kicked off her second day in Italy by visiting a pre-school which focuses on a nature-first learning approach. The Princess of Wales arrived in Reggio Emilia on Wednesday on a ‘fact-finding’ mission for her early years work. Arriving to start her second day of engagements this morning, Kate met the children and staff at the Salvador Allende pre-school to learn more about the ‘Reggio Emilia Approach’, which highlights the important role of nature in early childhood learning. The princess was greeted by school staff before she sat outside with a group of young children to get involved in their outdoor learning. Kate joined the children for their morning assembly, where she heard how pupils collaboratively discuss and decide on their activities for the day. The future queen then sat in the grass with a small group of school children and their teacher to join them as they drew pictures. While sitting in the garden, Kate held a small lizard in her hand, showing it to an excited young boy. The princess then sat with two young girls as they painted on easels in the garden. The future queen then used a magnifying glass to get a closer look at various plants around the school's garden, before playing the triangle as other children watched on intently. The princess opted to champion Italian designers with her choice of outfit on today's engagement, honouring her host nation by wearing Italian brand Blaze Milano for a sharply cut soft beige blazer. She also accessorised with a delicate bracelet by Milan-based jewellery brand Atelier Molayem. Salvador Allende Scuola dell'infanzia places particular emphasis on outdoor learning and environmental education, including a garden with features like a willow tree and a bamboo forest. The visit will highlight the importance of attuned, attentive caregivers and the environment as “the third teacher”. Kate arrived in Italy on Wednesday as thousands of royal fans flocked to the city’s main square to welcome the princess with bouquets of flowers and excited cheers. Dressed in a blue Edeline Lee trouser suit as she arrived in Italy, Kate shook hands and took flowers from fans before she bent down to speak to a group of school children. The princess, who spent her gap year in Italy, conversed with the youngsters, showing off her skill of the Italian language. Kate said to the children in their native language: “I speak a bit of Italian. What is your name? I am Catarina.” She was heard to tell the Mayor of Reggio Emilia that the warm welcome had left her "emotional, seeing everyone". Mayor Marco Massari then recognised Kate for her efforts with early years work with the Primo Tricolore - Reggio Emilia's highest honour. She then spent half an hour sitting down with local "nonnas" - Carla Nironi, Iona Bartoli, and Eletta Bertani - who told her of their work to spread the Reggio Emilia method through the community. All three women were born around the start of the Second World War, and are considered instrumental in creating the programme that the Princess is here to see. The Princess of Wales later said she had an “inspiring day” learning about the Reggio Emilio approach to early years development as she visited the Anna Frank school (Scuola Comunale d’Infanzia) in the city to have adopted the philosophy, where she hugged children and left teachers emotional. Heading back outside after spending hours sitting with children as they worked on art projects, the princess told teacher Ms Di Benedetto: “It’s been such an inspiring day for me. To see the history, where it started, to where it is now, and to see how it’s stood the test of time. The city should be proud, you’re leading the way globally.”