A landmark moment in language education took place as the Extensive Reading Association of Italy (ERA Italy) was officially founded at a signing ceremony held in Macerata, Italy on 26th July 2025. The formation of the ERA Italy signals Italy’s formal commitment to promoting Extensive Reading practices in foreign language education. The association aims to support teachers, researchers, and institutions by providing resources, training, and a professional community focused on the power of reading large amounts of engaging material at the appropriate level.
Congratulations to the founding members and organisations of ERA Italy: Michael Lacey Freeman (Chair), Peter Frederick Anderson (Secretary and Treasurer and owner of the language school, Anderson House), Vanessa Hartson Walker – Board member and Vice-President (owner of the language school, Kids Can), Donatella Fitzgerald MBE – Board member (Pearson), Giovanni Rovelli – Board member and Publicity Manager (Pearson), Elizabeth Porteous Cicconi (Board Member), Sarah Ruth Gudgeon (Board Member), Maria Cleary (Helbling ), Harold John Cullinane (ELI ), Fiorella Montevago (Usborne), and Marcus Daniel Mattia. Other key members of the association: Rob Waring (ERF Exec), Christina Caughlan, Maria Cristina Bevilacqua (Board Member and Events Manager), Simeon Cooper (Social Media Manager), Grazia Ancillani, Elena Mancinelli, and Patrizia Mancinelli.
Founding members of ERA Italy signed the charter outlining the association’s mission: to advance research, organize conferences and workshops, and advocate for ER in educational policy and classroom practice.
“This is an important moment for language education in Italy,” said Michael Lacey Freeman, Chair of the Extensive Reading Association in Italy. “ERA Italy will provide a national platform to share good practice, inspire innovation, and expand the reach of Extensive Reading to more learners across the country.” For more information, or to become a member of ERA Italy, please visit the website.