NABA Expands into London with New Director Diego Mattiolo for Enhanced Creative Education

NABA's Expansion into London

NABA, short for Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti, is making notable strides in the UK by opening a new campus in London, with the recent appointment of Diego Mattiolo as School Director and Head of Education. This exciting development comes at a time when the UK is emphasizing the importance of creative education, aligning with the growing demand for professionals in the cultural and creative industries. With courses set to launch in the 2026/2027 academic year, NABA aims to create a significant footprint in the British education landscape.

Leadership with Experience

Diego Mattiolo's extensive background in academic management, spanning over a decade, positions him uniquely to lead NABA's new London initiative. His experience includes fostering multicultural teams and crafting learner-centered educational environments. Mattiolo's international experience, coupled with his deep understanding of the UK educational context, is expected to be instrumental in establishing the London campus as a vibrant hub for creative education. He aims to cultivate an inclusive atmosphere where students can engage in projects that connect them to the professional world, emphasizing the direct application of their learning.

Italian Influence in Education

NABA is recognized for its strong heritage stemming from its Milan and Rome campuses, where a distinctive Italian approach to education—especially in fashion, design, and visual arts—is celebrated. The new campus is designed to incorporate this legacy, introducing students to an educational model that encourages experimentation and research while also focusing on practical skill development. The academy's mission, stated as "Through Artistic Intelligence, we nurture people to design a new tomorrow," reflects its dedication to equipping students with the necessary tools to thrive in creative professions.

An Interdisciplinary Curriculum

Beginning in September 2026, the London campus will offer accredited Bachelor's degrees in Design, Fashion Design, and Fashion Marketing Management through a partnership with Regent's University London. The academic framework will be rooted in an interdisciplinary and project-based approach, where the philosophy of 'learning by doing' will be heavily emphasized. With smaller class sizes—up to 28 students for lab practicals and 40 for theoretical lessons—students will benefit from close interactions with faculty members, fostering a more personalized educational experience.

Students will have access to specialized facilities, including the Design Lab, Fashion Design Lab, and Textile Knitwear Lab, enabling them to tackle real-world briefs and engage with methodologies directly linked to industry standards. By partnering with leading figures in the industry, NABA ensures that students are not only learning theoretically but are prepared for the dynamics of the creative sectors.

Commitment to Accessibility

In addition to academic offerings, NABA is committed to making quality education accessible. The institution will provide scholarships of up to £7,000 for eligible students, aimed at recognizing and supporting those who show promise and commitment. These scholarships are designed to assist with tuition fees during the first year and could potentially extend into subsequent years, provided students meet defined academic criteria.

Situated in Here East—a vibrant ecosystem where education, industry, and research meet—the NABA London campus positions itself as a forward-thinking institution prepared to cultivate the next generation of creative leaders. With its unique blend of Italian educational principles and a keen understanding of the local market, NABA is set to make a lasting impact in the UK.

For more information, visit NABA's official website.