NABA Expands its Influence in the UK Market with Diego Mattiolo's Appointment as School Director

NABA, or Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti, is taking a significant step forward in its mission to provide quality art education by opening a new campus in London. With this expansion, the institution has announced the appointment of Diego Mattiolo as the School Director and Head of Education for its London campus, set to launch courses in the 2026/2027 Academic Year. This move emphasizes NABA's commitment to strengthening its foothold in the UK market, where creative education has become increasingly vital for meeting the demands of the cultural and creative industries.

A Visionary Leader for a Dynamic Environment

Diego Mattiolo, who brings over a decade of experience in academic management, is poised to lead NABA’s London campus. His background in managing multicultural teams and creating engaging, student-focused learning environments will be instrumental in establishing the school within one of the world's leading creative hubs. Mattiolo aims to foster an inclusive and project-oriented learning experience, emphasizing direct connections between students and the professional world.

As Mattiolo points out, the objective is to build an international atmosphere enriched by Italian craftsmanship and educational practices, rather than merely replicating existing models. By integrating authentic Italian expertise with local industry needs, NABA hopes to sculpt a unique educational experience that combines art and industry seamlessly.

Italian Heritage Meets British Innovation

NABA is not new to the world of art and design education; its campuses in Milan and Rome have long been associated with quality and innovation in design, fashion, and visual arts. The new London campus plans to carry this legacy forward while adapting to the specific needs and trends of the UK market. This will manifest in an education model that not only incorporates research and experimentation but also emphasizes practical application in arts and design.

The London campus will offer Bachelor's degrees in key areas such as Design, Fashion Design, and Fashion Marketing Management, all accredited by Regent's University London. The educational approach will be interdisciplinary, focusing on a project-based learning model that allows students to engage with real-world challenges. Small class sizes will enable more intimate interactions between faculty and students, facilitating a personalized educational experience tailored to each individual's creativity.

Hands-On Learning Experience

A vital component of the NABA London experience will be hands-on training, featuring dedicated labs such as the Design Lab, Fashion Design Lab, and Textile Knitwear Lab. Through these facilities, students will work on actual briefs, enhancing their skills and preparing them for the professional landscape. Partnerships with industry players will facilitate real-world engagement, allowing students to apply their learning in a practical context.

Located within Here East, the campus will be part of an education-industry research ecosystem, reinforcing the interconnectedness that is crucial in the current education landscape. This will help prepare students not just to enter the workforce but to thrive within it.

Accessibility and Support for Talented Students

Acknowledging the importance of inclusivity in education, NABA has introduced scholarships valued up to £7,000 for deserving candidates, based on their commitment and talent. This financial support is designed to ease the burden of tuition fees during the first year and could extend into the subsequent years contingent on the recipient's academic progression.

As NABA embarks on this exciting new chapter, it sets out to create an educational institution that is not only accessible but also responsive to the evolving needs of the creative industry. With Diego Mattiolo's leadership, the new campus can potentially serve as a hub for innovative learning and artistic development in London, preparing students to contribute significantly to the global creative landscape.

For more information about the courses and the new campus, please visit NABA's official website.