Front Cover Design: Clara San Segundo

Front Cover Design: Clara San Segundo - (student of Year 9)
CONTENTS
Pages
3
4 and 5
Milagros Alonso- President of TEMS, Founder of the School
History of the School
6
Testimonials – Retired staff
7
Testimonals – Elaine Fitzpatrick, Headmistress
José Manuel Rodríguez, General Manager
8
Testimonials – Staff who have been with us 20 to 30 years
9
Testimonials – Staff who have been with us more than 30 years
10 and 11
Testimonials – Educators
12 and 13
Testimonials – Parents of ex-students
14-17
Testimonials – Ex-students
18-20
35th Anniversary ex-students celebration
21-23
35th Anniversary dinner party
rth anniversary
24
School buildings from the beginning to the present day
25
Montessori today design
26
Staff photographs
27
TEMS today – Elaine Fitzpatrick
Belén Ulecia
28
TEMS today – Kathryn Stack
Abigail Kay
29
Early years
30
Infant department – years 1 and 2
31
Junior department – years 3-6
32
Senior department – years 7-11
33
Spanish / English Bachillerato – years 12 and 13
34
Departamento de español
35
Sports and physical education
36
Extra-curricular activities
37
Special events / Excursions
38
Collage of students’work
39
Acknowledgements
Milagros Alonso Ortiz
Founder of The English Montessori School
35 years have passed since The English Montessori
School (Madrid) started in a small house on Avda. Alfonso
XIII (Madrid), for children from one to four years of age.
35 years have elapsed since I first dreamt of bringing to
life a Montessori School. This inspiration came from a conference, one year earlier, led by my mentor, the renowned
pedagogue, Ángela Martín.
35 years ago, who could have imagined that Ángela’s
knowledge, her enthusiasm, indeed her love of The Montessori Method, would implant it’s stamp on my life and the
lives of so many others.
35 years ago, who could have believed that in Franco’s
Spain, a woman could have initiated a progressive institution, The English Montessori School, that proclaimed
“A DIFFERENT WAY OF LEARNING” to become a reality.
35 years have literally, sped by during which personal
education is emphasized. The joy of self-discovery in each
child and the realization that every child could develop to
his or her fullest capacity was the hallmark of The English
Montessori School.
35 years have seen the work, the dedication and the
enthusiasm of many, many teachers and administrators
to carry the torch of an English school which, while adhering to academic
excellence, has never wavered in its desire to promote strong individual
values in its students.
35 years of students... ! Some of “yesterday’s” students are today’s parents, now succesful professionals, who have elected to send their children to
the school. They have passed the baton of their experience to their offspring
ensuring the continuity of Montessori within their individual families.
35 years after its conception, the celebration of “old students” on the 22nd
of May was ample proof that values they had recieved from the school are
still alive, have affected their lives positively and helped them to be happier
adults.
35 years... ! What better anniversary could there be than to realize that I
have been part of all of the above. My dream is still alive!
Milagros Alonso
President of TEMS
Dedicated to Ángela Martín, my mentor and the inspiration
behind my founding of the school, who passed away in 1992.
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History Of The School
Alfonso XIII School 1973 -1978
1973 Milagros introducing the
school to the parents
I
n September of 1973 the seed was sown that has become The English Montessori School (TEMS). That
seed sprang from the creativity, enthusiasm and love of
its founder, Milagros Alonso, for the Montessori method,
a system largely unknown in Spain in those days.
The English Montessori School first opened its
doors with a small group of students from one to four
years of age. It was one of the pioneering Montessori
schools in Spain. The language of instruction was English. The following year the school did not enrol more
one-year olds but expanded to include students up to
six years of age.
Soon, the school in Alfonso XIII became very popular for its “Different Way of Learning: ” the prepared
environment, the learning with individual freedom, the
motivation of the encouragement to self-discovery, the
development of personal capacities of each child and
the different attitude of the teacher towards students.
Triana and Eduardo Vela Schools 1978-1986
Milagros receiving an international
business award for the success
of the school in 1983.
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1973 Angela Martin in
Alfonso XIII School
That approach was unique in education in Spain at
that time.
Though originally a nursery/infants school, the parents of those pupils were so pleased with such an
innovative methodology, that they requested that the
school extend into primary education.
This growth necessitated an additional site located
in Calle Triana, as well as, to be recognized, officially,
as a British School in Spain. British inspectors came,
inspected and approved the school in 1978. It was to
follow British education in Spain, which was recognized by the Ministry of Education in both countries.
The school also adapted its curriculum allowing the
Montessori philosophy to be combined with the British
system.
History Of The School
1990 Staff Celebration in the new
Aravaca School
1999 25th Anniversary of the school
1992 Senior School Teachers Choir
1992 Milagro’s speech at an
International Montessori Conference
2000 San Isidro in Senior School
Aravaca II School
Senior
School
Aravaca
At that time The English Montessori School became a charter member of the founding of the National Association of British Schools in Spain (NABSS). It
has maintained its membership throughout the years.
The expansion of TEMS was partly, of course, due
to the fact that each year an additional educational
year had to be added. The parents, simply, wanted
their children, as they grew older, to continue at the
same school.
In addition to the parents’ feelings, the reasons that
the students felt so positive were manifold: the close
bond between students and teachers, characterized
by small things such as calling the staff by their first
names and more important things, among which
are the Montessori philosophy of teachers acting
as enablers rather than lecturers, the importance of
recognizing each child as an individual and the stress on
the education of the “whole” child (academic, personal
and social) are just some of these reasons.
In June 1987, when the school held its first promotion, graduating students in Year 9 (8º EGB), students
had to leave to pursue their educational studies, at the
BUP and COU levels, in other centres.
ARAVACA from 1988
and continuing...
However, as time progressed the school concluded that offering up to 3º BUP for our pupils would
not accommodate the wishes of the students or the
parents. This corresponded to the time when changes
were instituted in the Spanish educational system that
offered TEMS the possibility of presenting the Bachillerato, after acquiring, in 1990, the new and present
premises in Calle de La Salle (Aravaca).
The English Montessori School has followed this
program with exceptional results and, every year, has
been among the top-ten schools entering Selectividad
at the Complutense University of Madrid.
The school’s continual evolvement throughout the
years – improving the site, augmenting the academic
staff, expanding teacher support systems, providing
in-service training and expanding the international
character of the student body, has provided the pupils
at TEMS the opportunity to attain significant improvement in their academic, social and personal growth.
The English Montessori School has, each year, been
recognized as one of the best schools in Spain and, after
35 years, continues to educate and graduate confident
and well-prepared young adults, ready to accept and cope
with the challenges and demands of today’s society.
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Testimonials
our dear retired staff
Barbara Gribble
Amelia Orgaz
Ex-nurse at the school
Ex-secretary + receptionist
at the school
I feel very fortunate to have shared 16 of those years at the school.
Most of all, I remember the children. They arrived every morning
so full of life and energy. They
were very happy learning “in a
different way” and really grew
in the atmosphere of caring and
mutual respect. The philosophy
of Maria Montessori was always
present.
As I write these words I am reliving
for a moment, a wonderful moment, of
my life which I remember greatly. My
16 years at the Montessori school was
an experience that not only helped my
professional development but also
greatly enriched me personally. When
I look back, I am full of memories of
the school as a very warm and friendly
place. The relationships with the children, parents and staff, all different, left unforgettable memories.
Pilar de Blas
Ex-profesora y Directora de Estudios Españoles
En el curso 79/80 mis hijos de 5 y 3 años ingresaron en The English Montessori School. Lo que en
aquel momento buscábamos como padres era una educación libre y un segundo idioma para ellos.Al
poco tiempo se me plantearon algunos problemas de entendimiento con respecto a los trabajos que se
realizaban en el aula. El colegio anunciaba, por aquel entonces,cursos en la Asociación Montessori y allí
acudí a despejar mis dudas. Una vez conocido a fondo la Idea Montessori, mis problemas se acabaron
y mi espíritu Montessoriano nació y se fue reforzando cada vez mas a lo largo de todos estos años .
Con esta filosofía he trabajado toda mi vida profesional,dando lo mejor de mi misma a mis maravillosos
alumnos que, no por ser los mas pequeños, no han sido los mas grandes. Ellos con su despertar día a
día me han llenado de vida, paz y cariño. No se si en algún momento cometí algún error involuntario con
ellos por lo que pido disculpas. Lo que si sé es lo que me aportaron a mi y lo que tambien me enseñaron,
por lo que les estaré siempre agradecida.
Cristina Almazán
Ex-profesora de Sociales que se jubiló en 2004
¡Cómo pasa el tiempo! Cuando Elaine me llamó para comunicarme la conmemoración del 35º aniversario del colegio, me pareció mentira. Pero luego pensé que mi hijo va a hacer 33 años y fue de los
primeros alumnos de aquel chalecito de la calle Alfonso XIII con un método de enseñanza, el método
Montessori. Años más tarde trabajé en el colegio y, tengo que decir, que los años pasados en él, fueron
años llenos de experiencias, proyectos e ilusiones. Os conocí a vosotros, alumnos que habéis pasado
por mis manos y por mi cabeza y que aún llevo en mi pensamiento y en mi corazón. Conocí a compañeros que nunca podré olvidar, siempre dispuestos a echar una mano. Por eso y por muchas cosas más
me uno de corazón a la celebración de esos 35 años de enseñanza. Deseo lo mejor para el colegio, para sus actuales profesores y
dirección, y espero que nunca se pierda la ilusión montesoriana de sus comienzos. Un abrazo muy fuerte para todos.
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Conchita Sánchez
Nuri & Genara
Ex-secretary + receptionist
at the school
Our Beloved Cooks
Mi paso por TEMS siempre fue enriquecedor, pues aprendí mucho de los
niños, a quienes adoro. También pasé
muchos momentos felices que serían
largos de enumerar, pero sobre todo mi
“cole”, como yo le llamo, es y será siempre el mejor, por lo que es para mí una
alegría y un privilegio el poder figurar en
esta revista. Conchita Sánchez.
Recuerdo con tanto cariño
todos los años que trabajé en
el colegio. ¡Aquellos años con
Florencio y con Nuri en Alfonso XIII y Triana! Estoy muy
agradecida a Milagros por
ayudarme siempre. Le deseo
mucha felicidad en el 35 aniversario, con mucho cariño.
Testimonials
Elaine Fitzpatrick
Headmistress
Dear parents,
In this school magazine we have attempted through photos, comments and pieces of work to capture the past and present of The
English Montessori School. Thirty-five years have now gone by
since the first school opened in the calle Alfonso XIII.
A lot of children have passed through and are now adults in today’s
ever-changing and demanding society.
As someone who has worked at the school for thirty years I can
say with conviction that some things have never changed – the pupils’ enthusiasm and dedication in all the activities they engage in.
We hope that you enjoy reading about our past and present.
Thank you to all staff, parents, ex-pupils and pupils who have
contributed to making this magazine a tribute to The English
Montessori School.
Elaine Fitzpatrick
José Manuel Rodríguez
General Manager
My relationship with this great family, formed by all the people involved with The English Montessori School, started in September
1981. This was the moment my wife and I decided to inscribe our
daughter Isabel in this school located in Alfonso XIII 40. We thought
at that time that the educational style followed by this school was
what we desired for our daughter. In 1991, we inscribed our son José
Enrique in this same school, by then T.E.M.S. with new locations in
Triana, Eduardo Vela and La Salle.
From my present position in daily management of T.E.M.S., I try
to constantly improve the quality of teaching, our facillities, our team
and above all, the well being of our students.
I am sure that all the T.E.M.S. team share my same objectives. I
believe that it is perceived in this way by our students and their families and that every day they will feel better amongst us.
My final wish is that this institution will continue to progress, with
increasing success, for the following 35 years.
José Manuel Rodríguez
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Testimonials
staff who have been with us 20 to 30 years
Mi experiencia más enriquecedora en lo personal y
profesional en estos veintidós años en Montessori ha sido
el contacto directo con un grupo excelente de docentes
y un incontable desfile de alumnos extraordinarios.
Manuel
Anuncia, Mercedes, Elaine, Milagros, Belén, Tina, Rosa, Manuel,
Richard, Andrea, Olga, Chus, Antonio, Eric and Almudena.
I am extremely grateful for the 20 years of work I have
had at this school. I have learnt so much from the children who have contributed to my own personal growth.
Richard
Desde que me especialicé en el Método Montessori
mi sueño era trabajar en un colegio que aplicara esta metodología. Los alumnos vienen contentos, aprenden con
facilidad, son responsables. La cercanía, el trato familiar,
el cariño y la confianza mutua han sido las señas de identidad en estos veinte años y la razón de seguir aquí.
Mercedes
Si tengo que resumir en pocas líneas mis veinticinco años de profesora en el colegio, lo haría recordando
cada grupo de alumnos que he tenido, empezando por
los del primer grupo de 6º de EGB que tuve en el edificio de la calle Eduardo Vela (concretamente en la torre)
y terminando por los de 1º y 2º de bachillerato de este
curso. De todos y cada uno de ellos guardo el recuerdo
más entrañable.
Me parece mentira llevar tanto tiempo formando parte
del Montessori. Mi experiencia siempre ha sido positiva, el
ambiente laboral agradable y he conseguido grandes amigos. Pero cuando matriculé a mi hija en el colegio empecé
a valorar de una manera mucho más personal y directa
cómo es el colegio, cómo se enseña, la fantástica labor
de mis compañeros, y el buen ambiente y compañerismo que se respira, fundamentalmente entre los alumnos.
Realmente, es un colegio “muy especial”. Estoy encantada de que mi hija sea alumna de este colegio, y de seguir
formando parte de The English Montessori School.
Olga
Belén
I have been working in this school now for 29 years.
Once a British Inspector asked me “How is it that you
have worked so many years in the school?” To which
I replied, “Well I’m happy here, so why not. ” Also on
occasions parents comment on how attractive the classroom looks, to which I tell them that I spend most of my
life within these walls, and if it is bright and cheerful then
I’m going to be cheerful too, which also reflects positively
on the children. Over the years I have realized that The
English Montessori School is one big happy family. So
who knows I might still be here in another 29 years.
Tina
Con motivo del 35 aniversario tuve la oportunidad de
reencontrarme con muchos de los antiguos alumnos de
TEMS, fue uno de los días más emocionantes de mi vida.
Descubrí que la labor que hacemos cada día merece la
pena: por el recuerdo que guardan de nosotros, por la
clase de personas que hemos formado, por su capacidad como profesionales. Os mando todo mi cariño.
Chus
Having been here for 23 years has given me the great
opportunity of seeing cocoons turn into butterflies. It is
really amazing to witness such a wonderful thing.
Eric
Tengo innumerables recuerdos de mis veintitrés años
en el colegio, no todos igual de agradables, pero todos
válidos y provechosos. De todos los alumnos que han
pasado por mí he aprendido algo. Espero que yo a ellos
también haya sido capaz de transmitirles mi entusiasmo
por lo que hago. Realmente ha merecido la pena.
I started working at The English Montessori School
in 1988. Since then I have had the pleasure of getting
to know, learn and work with many people, the younger
ones and older ones. With regards,
Rosa
Almudena
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Testimonials
staff who have been with us 30 years or more
Andrea Capitán, Elaine Fitzpatrick, Milagros Alonso, Antonio Barnusell, Anuncia Verzosa.
I have seen children come and go but still I am here enjoying daily school life. It has been a gratifying 26 years experience of sharing with them the joys of being in school and contented throughout.
Andrea
During the 30 years I have worked at The English Montessori School I have had different posts and worked in
nearly all of the school sites. There has been one consistent aspect throughout all these years, centres and posts – I
have always felt happy coming to school and derived many personal and professional satisfactions. Long may they
continue.
Elaine
Hace más de 30 años que llegué al The English Montessori School para poner en marcha la actividad extraescolar
de Judo. El modelo educativo no solo transformó la vida de los alumnos que pasaron por el centro, sino que, también,
transformó la vida y la forma de enseñar de muchos profesores entre los que tengo la suerte de encontrarme.
Quiero expresar mi agradecimiento a todas las personas que han hecho posible este proyecto, y en especial a la
Presidenta y Fundadora del English Montessori School, Milagros Alonso.
Antonio
It’s been 35 years since The English Montessori School was founded and 35 years since I joined the school with
all the excitement that such an innovating project involves. How time passes!! From the beginning of my career until the
end, a happy end, as I will soon retire.
Four simple phrases define my work: the love for teaching; the patience to teach; knowing how to listen to children;
satisfaction for a job well done.
Anuncia
I have been so fortunate to have been able to count on such a wonderful group of professional people during
these many years, who have contributed their work, love and dedication to children, which have made TEMS what
it is today. Thanks to you all. You will always remain, fondly, in my heart.
Milagros
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Testimonials
educators
Lesley Joffick (formerly Britton)
Author and International Montessori Training Centres Director
“My first encounter with The English Montessori School was in the l980’s. The school
had already been established since 1973.
The world was quite different when Maria Montessori first set up a school in the Lorenzo
district of Italy for deprived children, and through her principles and practices, these children
were motivated to learn. What is so special about the Montessori Method?
It is extraordinary that a ‘method’ of education cannot only survive so long but that it can
also be relevant today in a globalised world.
First and foremost the Montessori teacher is trained to look at and observe the child, where they are now in this
moment of time. This first principle is as easily applied now in today’s world as it was then in l906. Yes, the world is
different and the children are different in many ways but the teacher will know how to make the right choices.
The second important aspect of the method is to prepare the child’s environment putting in it objects and activities
that are appropriate for each child’s developmental stage and giving them the skills to learn by themselves. Today’s
classrooms will be different from those found in l906. Technology is now part of every classroom and Montessori has
adjusted to have children use this technology.
A third important principle is that all the children are allowed to progress at their own rate. There is no competition.
The children learn for the joy of learning. They seek knowledge for its own sake. This will lead to life long learning.
A balanced curriculum is provided in a good Montessori school making sure that academic subjects are as equally
valued as the creative and sport subjects. It is indeed tailoring teaching to reach the “whole child. ”
I am proud to have been associated with TEMS over the years. To see it grow and develop and produce graduates
that are well prepared for life bears witness to the fact that its teachers and the Founder and President are dedicated
to the Montessori Method, and what is more, that they have moved with the times to keep the school up to date while
adhering to the original Montessori principles.
Maria Kelley
Educational Management
I was Founder and Director of Kings College of Madrid and I was sitting in my office on a September morning of 1973 when I received a telephone call from Milagros Alonso, the mother of our
students Charles and George King. “Maria, guess what, I am going into competition with you!!!!”
TEMS was born and there was a close co-operation between the two schools until I severed my
apron strings with Kings several years later. I left Kings but I did not leave Milagros, and Milagros
did not leave me. – That is the same kind of loyalty that she has tried to teach her students at
TEMS. I feel proud of having been connected with TEMS from its beginning and having followed
its growth and development over its 35 years. I wish to send my warmest congratulations to
Milagros for her great achievement, and to the staff at TEMS for the magnificent work they carry
on every day with their students. Maria Kelley (known as Maria Fry when TEMS started).
Mayte Vallet
Pedagoga y Escritora
Aunque en estos momentos me encuentro al otro lado del océano, me siento cerquísima
de vuestra celebración. Al terminar mis estudios universitarios, nací como pedagoga gracias
a la oportunidad que tuve, a principios de los años 70, de asistir al curso que organizó Milagros Alonso sobre el Método Montessori. Con Ángela Martín tuve el privilegio de descubrir el
aporte de María Montessori a la pedagogía y en el colegio de Alfonso XIII, donde realicé las
prácticas, pude conocer la aplicación del método en el que he basado mi trabajo pedagógico
con niños, adolescentes y adultos. He dado cursos a docentes de España y Centroamérica,
he impartido escuelas de padres, he asesorado en diferentes proyectos del Ministerio de
Educación y de Naciones Unidas, soy autora de varios libros para educar en las tres primeras
etapas de la vida y sigo desarrollando mi labor pedagógica basándome en los principios de María Montessori.
No podré asistir a la celebración del 35 aniversario, pero compartiré con vosotros la alegría de haber sido una alumna
privilegiada del curso que impartió Ángela Martin y de las prácticas que realicé en el colegio de Alfonso XIII.
Gracias Milagros, infinitas gracias por la oportunidad que me brindaste a través de tu colegio.
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Testimonials
educators
George Hoffmeier
Former Chairman of “The European Council
of International Schools” and Director of T.E.M.S.
In my tenure as headmaster of TEMS, I can remember many words that describe
this lovely school. The first has to be warmth: the warmth of the students towards the
teachers, the warmth of the parents towards the school, the warmth of the administration towards the teachers, the parents and, above all, the students.
Happiness is another such word. One of the tasks I enjoyed while at the school was
greeting the students as they arrived each morning. The happiness they exuded as they
arrived was not only proof that they were glad to be there but was contagious as well.
It certainly started my day off on a most positive note!
Another noun would be excellence. Year after year TEMS is always mentioned as
one of the best schools in Spain. Equally, year after year, TEMS finishes among the very
top schools in the external exams taken by the students. Student art, music and sports are fine representations of this
excellence as well. In short, excellence embraces every aspect of TEMS.
Loyalty of the students, the teachers, the parents and the administration are a hallmark for the school. Former students are now parents sending their children to TEMS. A considerable number of the teaching staff have remained at
the school for many years, some from when the school was founded. The attendance at the ex-student party in May
was exceptional, with at least 300 former students returning.
Finally, though there are many words that can be used, I believe dedication is a watchword for the school. The
dedication of the teaching staff cannot be overstated. Nor can this same dedication be denied on the part of the administration and, most noteworthy, the owner.
Therefore, congratulations, TEMS on 35 years of warmth, of excellence, of happiness, of loyalty and of dedication. They have
made TEMS an extraordinary place in the world of education. May these concepts continue for another 35 years and more!
María Jesús Abaroa
Presidenta de la Asociación Montessori Española
Como presidenta de la Asociación Montessori Española no tengo más que elogios y agradecimiento a la persona que hace 35 años abrió uno de los primeros colegios Montessori
en España: Milagros Alonso. Recuerdo, con nostalgia y cariño, el colegio de Alfonso XIII, a
principio de los 70.
Era un colegio pequeñito, muy coqueto, abierto a padres y estudiantes de pedagogía; un lugar
donde se respiraba ese ambiente que tanto inculcaba Montessori de orden, alegría, luz, color y
elegancia.
Allí estaba Milagros para contestar a todas las preguntas o aclarar dudas sobre la organización novedosa de la clase, o sobre el nuevo estilo de dirección del Centro.
Allí Milagros fraguó junto con otras personas, (dos de ellas ya no están entre nosotros, Angela Martín y Josefina
González), la idea de crear una Asociación Montessori en España.
En nombre de la Asociación Montessori deseo felicitar al English Montessori School en su 35 aniversario y desearía
que muchos centros educativos participaran en el proyecto y sistema Montessori que ellos iniciaron.
Martine Marsá
Gerente Educ@cem
Enhorabuena por el tan largo y fructuoso recorrido que habéis seguido durante 35 años. Para
la familia Marsá Lafarge El English Montessori School ha sido y siempre será un colegio ejemplar.
Os deseamos mucho éxito para los años venideros.”
35thBOOJWFSTBSZr
Testimonials
parents of ex-pupils
Genoveva Leví Orta
Madre de Ana María Ramos
El English Montessori School ha sabido cumplir con nuestras expectativas, desde la educación infantil hasta el
bachillerato. Estamos muy satisfechos con los resultados obtenidos. Nos complace compartir con vosotros el 35 aniversario. Un saludo.
Familia Delgado Ruiz
José, Javier y Ángela (Y11)
Ya hace 20 años que estamos en el colegio, y aún queda una hija para salir del cole, cuando me preguntan qué tal ha
sido mi experiencia, digo que ha sido la mejor decisión de mi vida, el haber decidido llevarlos a ese centro, y lo volvería
a hacer mil veces si tuviera que tomar de nuevo la decisión, pese a que con tanto niño el coste económico no es fácil
asumirlo, y pese a ello reiteramos que es lo mejor que hemos hecho y algún día, ojalá viva para verlo, se darán cuenta
mis hijos de lo que tienen, y han recibido y se lo deben a esta elección y al colegio. Gracias a todos los miembros del
colegio que han dado todo y su profesionalidad para el colegio y para los niños.
Fernando y M.ª José
Padres de María y Pepa Rodríguez Puerto
Grandes dudas surgieron en el momento de elegir qué tipo de escolarización queríamos para nuestras hijas. Tras
informarnos, visitar y sopesar diversas posibilidades, la elección recayó en TEMS. Nunca nos hemos arrepentido, fue la
elección adecuada. En TEMS recibieron la educación que queríamos, totalmente bilingüe, pero con tan sólidos conocimientos en ambos idiomas que les permitió pasar cursos, aprobar los IGCSE’s hasta obtener el Cambridge Proficiency
y finalmente Selectividad con magníficas notas. De los 3 a los 18 años. Pasaron directamente del TEMS a la Universidad
pues sus cursos fueron los primeros en beneficiarse de la instauración del Bachillerato en el Colegio. Pero no se trata
sólo de su buena preparación académica, aprendieron mucho más. Con vuestra ayuda aprendieron a ser independientes, a querer y respetar a sus profesores, a querer, respetar, compartir y ser solidarias con sus compañeros, a trabajar
en equipo en aquellos “projects” que tanto preocupaban a todos, a esforzarse, a estimular su creatividad, a desarrollar
sus propias habilidades, a crear amistades indisolubles que se alargan en el tiempo a pesar de los años transcurridos,
a entender que cada acto tiene su consecuencia, a aprender de los errores, en definitiva a ser personas de bien.
Muchas gracias a todos por vuestra magnífica labor en el desarrollo intelectual y humano de nuestras hijas.
ENHORABUENA por este 35º Aniversario
Almudena Fúster
Madre de Isabel y Carlota Hernáez
DE VUELTA EN T.E.M.S.
Tras un año y medio en el Reino Unido, mis hijas están de vuelta en el colegio. Han tenido la oportunidad de conocer
de cerca la lengua que estudian y convivir en una sociedad multicultural. Quiero darle las gracias a la directora Elaine
Fitzpatrick, en especial y a todos los que han hecho posible que mis hijas tengan el nivel académico que han adquirido
en T.E.M.S. y que ha facilitado una integración sencilla y una experiencia muy positiva en el colegio británico. Y esto,
no sólo por el nivel de inglés adquirido estos años aquí, sino por la preparación en general en todas las materias. En
concreto reconocen las dos que estuvieron al principio ‘viviendo de las rentas’ en English, History y French.
rth anniversary
Testimonials
parents of ex-pupils
Dra. Mercedes Cuesta
Directora Médica Rúber Internacional
Madre de Javier, Juan y Jaime García Cuesta
Rosa Rodríguez, profesora de lengua española, amiga nuestra desde entonces, hace más de 20 años, me comenta
que se celebra el 35 aniversario del comienzo del colegio, al cual fueron mis hijos que ahora tienen 31, 28 y 24 años.
Tres hombres que ya están trabajando (el pequeño termina sus estudios universitarios este año) y tienen como nosotros
un buen recuerdo del colegio. Conservan amigos que conocieron allí. Siempre fueron contentos.
Recuerdo a sus profesores como personas que trabajaban con auténtica vocación, con rigor y con empeño por enseñar, intentando por otro lado comprender los problemas familiares y ayudándonos a solucionarlos. Cuando nuestros
hijos son pequeños y como en nuestro caso trabajan los dos padres, la ayuda en la educación y el apoyo del colegio
es fundamental para conseguir que maduren adecuadamente. Nunca sentí desatención.
Han conseguido que aquellos niños sean adultos responsables, respetuosos con quienes no piensan como ellos,
muy amigos de sus amigos, que intentan un mundo más solidario y sobre todo que quieren ser felices cada día cumpliendo bien sus responsabilidades profesionales y sociales.
Para mí es muy importante el haber tenido a mis hijos en el Colegio Montessori y aunque cualquier institución y
cualquier persona puede siempre mejorar, agradezco sinceramente aquella cantidad de horas que ustedes dedicaron
a mis hijos.
María José Tomás
Madre de Eva y Rafael Guerrero
Cuando mi hija Eva tenía 2 años, alguien me habló de un colegio inglés que había en la Avda. Alfonso XIII de Madrid. Fui a verlo para saber si ése era el colegio que yo pensaba para mis hijos el día en que empezasen su etapa
escolar. Me encantó su forma de enseñar, su libertad para crecer aprendiendo, sus juegos con los que poco a poco
iban aprendiendo palabras en inglés. Y así empezó Eva y estuvo 9 años en el English Montessori School, al tiempo
que unos años más tarde de llegar al colegio, nació su hermano Rafa, que siguió sus mismos pasos. Él estuvo en el
colegio hasta los 16 años.
Hay recuerdos muy bonitos tanto por parte de mis hijos como de mi parte con ellos y los profesores que siempre
fueron personas muy profesionales y las que me hicieron muy fácil la estancia de mis hijos en el Montessori. ¡Muchas
gracias a todos!
Cristina Mera y Samuel Torres de Carvalho
Padres de Alejandra, Claudia, Samuel (Y8) y Mafalda (Y4) Torres de Carvalho
Solo unas lineas para agradeceros a todos el buen trabajo que habéis hecho con nuestros hijos. Mi hija Alejandra
comenzó en el 1989 y más tarde llegaron Claudia, Samuel y Mafalda
Llevamos veinte años con vosotros. Mis hijas mayores ya han terminado con resultados óptimos y su adaptación al
mundo del trabajo y de la Universidad ha sido excelente y ahora continúan los dos pequeños.
Muchas felicidades por estos 35 años al equipo directivo y académico actual y me gustaría hacerlo extensivo a los
anteriores que han contribuido con su cariño y buen hacer a que mis hijos sean unas personas respetadas y muy bien
consideradas.
Espero que continuemos viéndonos por los menos diez años más.
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Testimonials
ex - students
BEFORE
NOW
I am very thankful to all that T.E.M.S means: the teachers, teaching method,
classmates, school facilities... thanks to them I had a very happy childhood,
and to a great extent they have made me become who I am.
Thanks!
María Agudo
Recuerdo cuando había clase de música con Eric y tocaba aprenderse una
nueva canción. Cada cual era mejor que la anterior, y al escucharlas la primera
vez pensaba: “qué chulada de canción, pero qué difícil va a ser aprendérmela”.
Después de unas cuantas clases nos las sabíamos todos completamente de
memoria, y aún hoy cada vez que escucho alguna de aquellas melodías, no
puedo evitar cantarla a grito pelado
Estrella Mera Hernando
About me... well, I changed school staying at the new one till university
where I studied obtaining my Physiotherapy Degree in June of 2005 when I
decided to go abroad arriving to Paris where I worked for two years.
Nowadays, I work here in Madrid and I keep studying, this time Osteopathy... on several occasions I have bumped into my ex-classmates and it is really
gratifying to remember them and to be remembered after so many years so I
celebrate beforehand the reunion of former students!
Kindly,
Gloria Jiménez Betanzos
It’s always pleasant being at school again, in the garden where we played so
much. Hope we can have more opportunities to see each other again, teachers
and students!
And it was so nice to see all the pictures you’ve put on the walls when we
were so small !
Well, like always a great afternoon in my school! I’ll always miss school days
a lot and my school mates and teachers.
Natalia López
I am currently married and have a one year old girl. I have very nice memories from school and still have three very great and special friends from those
days.
Helen Muntión Vilaró
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Testimonials
ex - students
BEFORE
NOW
My infant years in The English Montessori School, date back to the
school’s opening in 1973 in a small chalet situated in Avda. Alfonso XIII. I joyfully
remember my early years there, from two to six years of age. There was a very
pleasant multi-cultural atmosphere with kids coming from different countries as
well as Spain. I vividly remember the names and faces of classmates such as
Aminat, Danny and Lissa who all became very close friends. I also remember
some of the teachers, such as Josefine and Mindy, who were so good creating
a self-discovery learning environment for all my class and me.
La vida es un armario que cada vez se llena de más recuerdos, momentos,
personas, imágenes, sonidos… En mi armario el Montessori ocupa mucho
espacio: Cajones con todos los profesores (los que se fueron y los que quedaron), baldas repletas de compañeros y amigos, un dibujo que al desdoblar
descubre los columpios de Triana, pósters con los árboles de Eduardo Vela,
perchas de las que cuelgan los disfraces del Mago de Oz, un cofre con pequeños tesoros (medallas ganadas en los athletics, canicas, cromos), cajas con
álbumes de fotos de Portsmouth, Plymouth, Clermont Ferrand…
Y, cómo no, ese estante en el que descansa doblado el uniforme: la falda
pantalón, la sudadera verde, las camisetas, el chándal rojo … ¡Cuánto nos
quejábamos de él!
anteayer
Edward King
Además, si entras en el armario y agudizas el oído, todavía se pueden escuchar multitud de sonidos: los gritos del jardín, el bullicio del comedor, los ecos
de las risas contenidas en las “assemblies”, la algarabía de las fiestas de fin de
curso, las voces severas de los directores, el alboroto en la ruta…
Así que a menudo abro el armario, sola o en compañía, y dejo que salgan,
desordenados, todos estos recuerdos, reviviendo de esta manera tantos momentos de felicidad...
Ana Díaz
ayer…
De los catorce años que pasé en este colegio guardo con mucho cariño los
recuerdos de mi infancia y adolescencia. Recuerdo Alfonso XIII: recuerdo olores
y juegos, un dos caballos de colores que a veces era un submarino o una nave
espacial; recuerdo hacer un pequeño agujero en el jardín que era parte de un
gran plan para escapar bajo tierra a comprar caramelos y recuerdo una piscina Toy en la terraza. Recuerdo Triana: recuerdo rodar por sus escaleras hasta
abajo, jugar en sus columpios, abrir las puertas de los baños a las niñas y esas
clases en que nos tumbábamos en colchonetas en el suelo y cerrábamos los
ojos mientras nos leían un cuento. Recuerdo Eduardo Vela con su patio descomunal y sus infinitos escondrijos, subir por su torre a escondidas, los sports’
days y las representaciones teatrales, el Mago de Oz. Recuerdo La Salle: las
fiestas de fin de curso, los cross-country, las excursiones de un día completo, la
fundación Juan March, la música, el cine, la literatura, la física, las matemáticas,
los coloquios, los conciertos. Pero sobre todo, recuerdo a las personas con las
que conviví aquellos años. Recuerdo a mis compañeros, algunos que ahora son
mis hermanos y otros que tomaron senderos distintos al mío; recuerdo a tantos
profesores que me trataron con cariño y con confianza, abriéndome los ojos a
un universo de conocimiento, y por culpa de los cuales ahora estoy aquí, codo
a codo con ellos, del otro lado y con la tiza en la mano. Recuerdo que muchos
veranos, al acercarse septiembre, deseaba que comenzase del curso.
Álvaro Ramos
(Ex-pupil and now a teacher in Bachillerato)
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Testimonials
ex - students
BEFORE
NOW
Yo empecé en el Montessori de Eduardo Vela cuando sólo tenía
2 ó 3 años!!!
Cuando nos mudamos “al Lápiz” mis padres se mudaron y me
cambiaron de cole pero mi experiencia en el Montessori fue maravillosa y aun guardo muy buenos amigos de aquella epoca, la Generación del 79!!
El caso es que os quería agradecer la reunión organizada el 22
de mayo. Yo al final no pude asistir porque estoy trabajando y viviendo en Marruecos así que me pillaba un poco lejos... Trabajo en
cooperación al desarrollo en Naciones Unidas y he de reconocer
que la educacion bilingüe ha sido fundamental en mi carrera...
Os mando un par de fotitos de entonces (yo soy la rubita... que está con
Ana Gordillo y Sonia Rojas) y de ahora para la revista del cole!
Muchas gracias por darnos la oportunidad de estar en contacto con antiguos compis y profesores!
Muchos Besos.
Bárbara García Mateos
I remember my first day at school… It was in a big, old building beside “La
carretera de la Coruña”, where I spent more time crying than playing with my
friends. Thanks to the Montessori method, which was based on team work, I
started to feel more comfortable. We used to be seated in a circle, on a mat,
exchanging our opinions and sharing toys.
From there on, we moved to Aravaca (town), where I had the best moments
of my childhood thanks to our teacher, Scott, who showed us how to respect
our mates, and mainly, how to learn having fun. I can’t forget all the great moments we had with our funny pet Bill.
The following years, we stayed at the present centre. There was only one
building, but it was enough for us to grow up, mature and get our academic
and moral knowledge. During this period was when we really made our friends,
friendships that we still keep.
The best moments I remember are: ski trips, campings, school trips and of
course, the sports events in which I won a lot of trophies that even today I keep
and show with great admiration.
To finish, I’d like to thank all the TEMS familly for all those years of teaching,
discipline and affection. Especially to Scott, Chus, Eric, Alan, Lynette, Javier,
Belén and Rosa for all the great moments we shared together, as well as for
their wholehearted support.
Borja Ruiz Nieto
I don’t think we realised back then how unconventional some teachers were
- I know I didn’t. But that lack of routine actually worked and it’s what I have
my fondest memories of.
Irina Vidal Migallón
rth anniversary
Testimonials
ex - students
BEFORE
NOW
Un pequeño resumen de lo que he hecho desde que me fui del cole:
Terminé BUP en Canadá, donde decidí quedarme y estudiar Ciencias Políticas en Toronto, estuve en total 6 años, y de ahí me fui a Milán a estudiar un
Master de moda en Marketing y Comunicación, también hice prácticas en una
marca de lujo y en total estuve más de un año viviendo ahí.
Me vine a Madrid (ahora hace casi 5 años) y desde entonces trabajo como
relaciones públicas en una agencia de comunicación de moda, donde me ocupo de llevar la comunicación (eventos, celebrities, desfiles, prensa... ) de varias
marcas de lujo de moda.
Tengo muchas ganas de ver a muchos de mis compañeros y de volver al
colegio.
¡Muchas gracias !
Elena Zorrilla Hermosilla
My parents had been preparing me for months in advance for my big day
at school, back in 1984 when Montessori was in Alfonso XIII. However they
forgot to tell me that the Big Day was in fact followed by many more big days
at school (some with some decent amounts of crying and running away... ):
That was the beginning of my 14 years at Montessori, and the start of many
wonderful friendships, most of which still play a very important part in my life,
more than twenty years later.
I remember those visits to Teatro San Pol, Patones and Granja Escuela ¨La
Universal¨, latin translations with Manuel and learning how to dance Charleston
with Steve... having to run in circles whilst Marta played the drum or taking a
nap in Triana, and some pretty surreal moments in the school bus number 3...
Looking back I feel very lucky I was able to share such good moments with
my friends and teachers who were also amazingly patient!
Paula Corces
I attended the Montessori from when I was 3 years old until I finished ESO. I
had many great teachers, who helped a lot when I didn’t understand something
in class and also at lunch time. Something like that was normal, but when I
went to a Spanish school, nobody paid attention to their students.
I really liked the Montessori way of teaching, my teachers and my classmates.
Anri Sasaki
I remember school was like family. We all knew each other and got on well.
I loved the festivities and sports’ days in which all students got involved and
worked as a team. Un beso,
Marta Agudo
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35th Anniversary
ex-students celebration
rth anniversary
35th Anniversary
ex-students celebration
O
n May 22nd, 2009 The English Montessori School was host to more than 300 former students. Some of
them were from the first years of the school.
A lovely spring evening, in the school gardens, saw the students mix with many of their teachers from years
past as well as having the opportunity to renew friendships from their school days.
Tears of joy, much laughter and a wonderful spirit of camaraderie combined to make the occasion truly a night
to remember.
The current teachers and some of the older students worked very hard to make this a memorable evening and
adding to the pleasure was music performed by a band including teachers and students.
This was a great celebration for the 35th Anniversary of the school!
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35th Anniversary
ex-students celebration
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35th Anniversary Dinner Party
O
n June 29th, 2009 a dinner party, in an elegant restaurant, celebrated the 35th Anniversary of The English Montessori School.
It is hoped these photographs do justice to the phrase, “A picture
is worth a thousand words”.
The dinner, accompanied by dancing, took place at the end of
the school year to enable everyone to celebrate with style, with warm
friendship and with fun, but more than anything, in appreciation
towards all those people, current and retired, who contributed for so
many years to the success of the school.
A plaque was given to Anuncia Verzosa, to give recognition to her
as the only person who has been with the school for all 35 years of
its existence.
The party was great and will be difficult to forget!
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35th Anniversary Dinner Party
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35th Anniversary Dinner Party
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School Buildings
from the beginning until the present day
Avda. Alfonso XIII School
Triana School
Eduardo Vela School, Aravaca
Aravaca II
Ctra. Coruña School
The English Montessori School Today
Calle de La Salle s/n, Aravaca
.0 / 5 &
4 403 *
.0 / 5 &
4 403 *
5 0% " :
Tems Today Design: Javier Peñas - (student of Year 11)
staff
photos
Management Team:
Belén, Elaine, Milagros, José Manuel, Kathy
Administration staff:
Débora, José Manuel, Ainhoa,
Lola, Milagros, Olga, Lourdes
Extra Curricular Staff:
Antonio, Nerea, Paola, Angela, Oscar
Junior Teachers:
Barbara, Huw, Christopher,
Virginie, Eric, Mercedes, Claudette, Chus, Carly,
Belinda, Ana, Cynthia, Nerea, Julie
Senior Teachers:
Javier, Scott, Phil, Angela, John, Steven, Virginie, Christopher,
Manuel, Tania, Marta, Claire, Isabel, Huw, Constantino, Beatriz, Nerea, Christine,
Jack, Alan, Rosa, Kathy, Belén, Miguel, Sharon, Peter, Cathy
Infant Teachers:
Lucy, Ana Mª, Caroline, Margaret, Carmen, Carmen, Sarah Jane, Lisa,
Ian, Lisa, Marcia, Nuria, Mercedes, Abby, Eric, Elizabeth, Richard,
Debbie, Maria, Ambar, Nerea, Tina, Almudena, Anuncia, Andrea, Amanda
Services:
Juan Pedro, Amelia, José, Nicoleta
Natalia, Psychologist,
Sandra, School nurse
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TEMS Today
The English Montessori School Today
Elaine Fitzpatrick
Headmistress
The past, and all the experience it entails, always contribute to
making the present better.
Many members of the staff, almost 1/3, have been with us for
more than 15 years. Some members have been with us for more than
20, and a few have been with the school almost from the beginning.
All the knowledge and expertise that these members of staff have
brought to the school have helped to keep the original philosophy and
expectations alive and improving. Of couse all the knowledge and expertise that more recent
members of staff have brought from schools in Britain and other International schools abroad
have made what this school is now, a school which is confident in getting the best out of their
pupils, a place where skills and knowledge are taught so that pupils enjoy their learning, secure
in the knowledge that the results achieved in external exams and in all the languages in which
they study are among the best.
Education is ever-changing today and pupils must be formed to cope with these changes.
A sense of purpose, creativity, high expectations and team work are vital to the well-formed
person in today’s society. When walking around the school or when our pupils attend concerts
or visit museums these attributes are highly evident.
The programme at The English Montessori School today encompasses everything pupils
need to become confident learners and equips them to deal with the constant changes of modern society. The relationships they build with their peers, other pupils and teachers all serve to
guide them gently and positively along the way, and to take what they have learned into their
adult lives and futures, no matter where in the world they may find themselves.
Belén Ulecia
Directora Técnica de Español
El proyecto educativo de The English Montessori School después de estos 35 años de andadura, se ha concretado en todas las
promociones de alumnos que, curso a curso, se han ido incorporando, primero a la vida universitaria, y posteriormente a la laboral, y, por
supuesto, en los alumnos que actualmente se forman en nuestras aulas, a los cuales queremos proporcionar las herramientas necesarias
para que alcancen su máximo potencial académico y personal que
les facilite la incorporación a un mundo en constante cambio, cada vez más competitivo.
Entendemos que el desarrollo intelectual no supone solamente la adquisición o aprendizaje
de conocimientos, sino el despertar y potenciar en los alumnos a través de todas las áreas del
currículo, unas capacidades que les permitan “aprender a aprender”.
Buscamos, no solo un alto rendimiento académico, sino el pleno desarrollo de la personalidad de nuestros alumnos mediante una formación integral, fomentando el respeto a los
derechos y a las libertades fundamentales del individuo.
Uno de nuestros principales objetivos a lo largo de estos años ha sido el incorporar a nuestro proyecto educativo lo mejor de las dos culturas, la británica y la española, de manera que
nuestros alumnos puedan continuar sus estudios universitarios en cualquiera de los dos países, o bien, en cualquiera de los muchos países del mundo que homologan sus enseñanzas.
Personal y profesionalmente me siento muy orgullosa de haber podido participar durante
veinticinco años en este proyecto educativo.
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TEMS Today
The English Montessori School Today
Kathryn Slack
Head of Senior Department
I joined the school in September 2005 and ever since my first day
I knew I’d made the right choice. Our pupils are friendly and generally
(!) very well behaved and the atmosphere is happy and relaxed. They
are full of life and confident in their individuality.
We have a great staff who are highly motivated and caring. We
strive to encourage pupils to fulfill their own potential to the best of
their ability and become independent, autonomous, confident, enquiring, informed and critical learners. Pupils should take an active role in their own learning which
leads to increased enjoyment, understanding and achievement. They should show self-respect,
respect for others and respect for their environment. They should use self-correction and selfdiscipline and listen to the opinions of others and understand when it might differ from theirs.
We go on regular residential trips skiing, camping and to a field study centre in Gredos.
Pupils are encouraged to raise money for our sponsored children in Nicaragua through various
fun activities that each tutor group organizes. We have parties at Halloween and Christmas and
a talent show in the summer.
Despite all this our pupils have time to be fully prepared for IGCSE exams and pupils from TEMS
now achieve excellent results which are as competitive as schools in England. A level English has
become a successful option in Years 12 and 13 and we hope to add more in 2010.
Abigail Kay
Head of Infants
After teaching for five years in my home town of Leeds in Yorkshire,
England, I came to Madrid to seek new challenges and experiences. I
joined The English Montessori School and taught my first year here
in Year 1. I enjoyed every minute of it, working with enthusiastic and
motivated staff and with children who eagerly took on the challenges
of learning in English. I am now very excited to take on the role as
Head of Infants this year.
Working with Infants is not for everyone. It’s messy! It’s noisy! But it’s where the magic
happens! I am proud to say we have a team of staff who all clearly share the passion for
Early Years learning and want to play a part in the important formative years of your children’s
education.
Everyone is special in the Infants; talents are discovered and nurtured and an enthusiasm for
learning is encouraged through an exciting, relevant curriculum. Learning is about trying your
best and having a go; making mistakes and learning from them. Children are taught that it’s
right and safe to question; to think for themselves and do the right thing. We place children’s
emotional security, health and personal / social development at the core of everything we do
and we know that this work is impacting positively on our children’s lives, securing their sense
of safety and happiness at school, building their self- confidence and enabling them to achieve
more positively in the classroom.
Our school has had a commitment to providing quality education for the past 35 years and
we are dedicated to ensuring that this continues. It is a real pleasure for me to teach the children here and play such an important part in their young lives.
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Early Years
G
oals for learning for children emphasize early
literacy, numeracy and development of personal and social skills, and contribute to childrens’
knowledge, understanding and skills in other areas.
They provide foundation for later achievement.
These desirable outcomes fit in well with the
English National Cirriculum and with the Montessori system and materials.
The materials which Maria Montessori designed were extraordinary and remain so today,
but nowadays the range is wider. Something Maria Montessori wanted to pass on was the idea of
keeping the methodology up to date, while maintaining the basic principles.
These principles are:
Creating a prepared environment adapting it to
the needs of the group and filling it with abundant, enriching stimuli; isolating difficulties. Teach
concepts one by one. Always starting with an
acquired concept and little by little increasing the
level of difficulty and abstraction, depending on
the capacity of each pupil; providing 3-period lessons: (when teaching new concepts): a. introducing the concept, b. recognition of the concept,
c. naming the concept; working in groups or circle
time; respecting the maturity of each pupil. Each
child matures differently and the right time to teach
a concept must be taken into account; promoting
independence, self correction and internal discipline. We should not do things for children if they
are capable of doing them for themselves. This
way we avoid overprotecting them.
The benefits of this system, in our school, sow
the seeds for future adult life. Children begin to become aware, that through their own efforts, they
can take their education into their own hands.
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years 1 and 2
T
o ensure a smooth transition into Year 1, teaching and learning at the beginning of the year is designed to reflect
the practice of Foundation Stage and continue to build upon and reinforce the social, personal and emotional
skills developed throughout Nursery and Reception. As the year progresses learning becomes more structured in
order to achieve British National Curriculum objectives and prepare the children for Year 2 where learning is more
formal. Despite the more structured teaching styles in Years 1 and 2, both year groups’ classrooms are organised
into thematic areas of learning: reading, writing, mathematics, topic, art and Spanish. These ensure that children
access resources independently and are able to ‘think for themselves’. Montessori education and The British National
Curriculum share and reinforce the same common attitudes, skills and concepts in many ways. In both year groups
and in all subjects, children are encouraged to be inquisitive, analytical thinkers who are tolerant of the opinions of
others. The department’s determination is to give children a well-rounded education that underpins our commitment
to provide a school experience that enables every child to build on their self confidence, become independent
learners and, most importantly, enjoy and achieve.
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Junior Department
years 3, 4, 5, and 6
T
he Junior Department is made up of Years 3, 4, 5 and 6 and, apart from Lengua Española and Conocimiento
del Medio, all subjects are taught in English and follow the objectives of the English National Curriculum at
Key Stage 2 (Years 3-6). However, the Montessori philosophy remains integral to the primary programme. Children
are encouraged to learn through experience and become inquisitive, analytical thinkers. Its aim is to develop their
autonomy, independence and self-confidence, as well as self-esteem and respect for others. Each year group
has a class tutor, whose role is to teach academic subjects in English and to provide opportunities for pupils to
develop socially and cooperatively. To this end, working with others is encouraged in most subjects. Group work
also facilitates differentiation of task and material to provide the appropriate level of challenge for all learners.
The Topic Programme forms an important and enjoyable part of the Junior curriculum and encompasses science, history and geography subjects. From Year 3, pupils are encouraged to carry out their own investigations,
and use the topic library and internet to research information. Topics are taught across the curriculum and link with
English, music, drama, art, maths and computers. Most excursions revolve around to the topics of study.
In literacy all aspects of the English language are studied as a whole, rather than in isolation. To this end, lessons combine reading, writing, speaking and language analysis. Through reading comprehension and text analysis, pupils build vocabulary and understanding of the
features of a variety of text types, thus enabling them
to apply this knowledge to their own writing skills.
Speaking and listening are important throughout the department. Increased vocabulary, greater
fluency and confidence are achieved through discussion and debate, communicative games and
the memorisation of songs, poems and assembly
roles. Pupils are encouraged to be active learners
and develop thinking skills. While the programme
follows the objectives of the English National Curriculum, the needs of foreign speakers of English are
also addressed through individualised materials that
focus on grammatical accuracy and reinforce key
structures and vocabulary.
The maths curriculum is extensive, varied and practical, with emphasis on the development of mental
calculation skills and understanding of concepts, with
application to everyday situations.
Dramatic, musical and artistic expression, are an
integral part of learning. All classes prepare and perform assemblies for peers and parents and drama is
included in the curriculum in Years 5 and 6.
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Senior Department
years 7 to 11
I
n the Secondary Department the aim is to educate our
pupils in line with the philosophy and basic methodology developed by Maria Montessori. Years 7 to 11 follow
the British National Curriculum and the Spanish Ministry
of Education requirements of Lengua and Ciencias Sociales. Individual subjects are taught by specialist teachers.
learn to gather information using different media and
interpret source materials.
English is a vital way of communicating in school, in
public life and internationally. Pupils at TEMS learn to become enthusiastic and critical readers of stories, poetry
and drama as well as non-fiction and media texts. They
are also encouraged to experiment with a wide range of
genres of writing. Using these skills, pupils can choose
and adapt what they say and write in different situations
which will equip them for life, both in and out of school.
In ICT pupils develop and consolidate their knowledge, skills and understanding by carrying out activities such as creating control models, developing web
sites and producing public information systems.
Mathematics consists of the four main topics of
number, algebra, shape and space and data handling.
Skills such as using logic and problem solving are inherently part of all mathematics.
The main focus in the PE Department is to introduce
pupils to a variety of sports in various learning environments, gaining the interest, knowledge, skills and motivation they need to engage in life-long physical activity.
The Science Department encourages pupils to develop enquiring minds and critical thinking, to acquire the
skills and knowledge to make intelligent, informed decisions in our technological and rapidly changing world.
Pupils study French as a modern foreign language
through immersion with native French teachers.
In History pupils learn about an array of topics from
Medieval England to the fall of the Berlin Wall. They
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Geography bridges the social sciences (human
geography) and the natural sciences (physical geography). Pupils study the earth landscape, people, places
and environments.
In Art pupils are given a solid basis in the principles of drawing and painting and then they move on to
more creative aspects of painting, sculpture, pottery,
collage and mixed media projects.
Music is taken in Years 7, 8 and 9. Pupils are taught
musical theory and notation and are encouraged to
apply this knowledge practically and critically, through
appraisal of a variety of music.
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Spanish / English Bachillerato
years 12 and 13
T
he English Montessori School began offering Bachillerato (equivalent to Year 12 and 13 levels) in 199899 following the Spanish Bachillerato Unificado Polivalente (BUP) programme, and from the year 2000-2001,
following the Spanish Bachillerato LOGSE programme.
From then onwards, every year our pupils’ Selectividad
examination results have ranked among the highest
obtained within the group of approximately 200 schools
sitting these official exams at Universidad Complutense,
including a third place in the ranking in 2008. Given the
fact that our pupils only follow the complete Spanish
programme during these last two years of their education, such results are highly commendable.
TEMS offers two Bachillerato options:
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Technology);
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(Humanities and Social Sciences).
In 2010 the school will broaden the English part of the
programme. In addition to preparation for the Certificate in Advanced English exam in Year 12 and Certificate
of Proficiency in English at Year 13, the following will
also be implemented:
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(Advanced Supplementary) level;
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same subject;
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taught by a British specialist teacher;
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or sit the DELF exams (Diplôme d’études de langue
Française – level 3 in Year 12, and level 4 in Year 13);
t4VQQPSU DMBTTFT JO UIF 4QBOJTI TVCKFDUT PG NBUFmáticas and lengua etc.) will be scheduled for both
Years 12 and 13 within the school day.
The above changes are expected to facilitate and enhance one of our main objectives at this educational
stage, that our pupils successfully go on to further education in whichever of the languages they have studied,
which leaves them a world-wide choice of universities.
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Departamento de Español
T
he English Montessori School como centro extranjero británico en España, tal como establece
el Real Decreto 806/1993 que regula su régimen jurídico, imparte estudios del sistema educativo británico
complementando estos estudios con enseñanzas de
lengua y cultura españolas, alcanzando tradicionalmente en estas áreas, el mismo nivel que los colegios
españoles.
En el departamento de español, como en el resto
de los departamentos del colegio, se implementa una
metodología activa, que asegure la participación del
alumno en el proceso de enseñanza y aprendizaje, favoreciendo su iniciativa y creatividad. La metodología y
orientación educativas han de realizarse pensando en
todas las distintas capacidades que hay en una clase.
La Lengua Castellana se empieza a impartir de Y1
y la cultura española (Conocimiento del Medio en Primaria/ Ciencias Sociales en Secundaria) en Y4. También, a partir de Y9 se dan unas clases complementarias de matemáticas en español, continuando con
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estas tres asignaturas hasta el final de la enseñanza
obligatoria (Y11).
En TEMS se implantó el Bachillerato Unificado Polivalente (BUP) en el curso 98-99 y, finalmente, el Bachillerato LOGSE en el curso 2000-2001. Desde entonces, en todas las promociones, nos hemos situado
entre los primeros colegios de los aproximadamente
200 que se presentan a selectividad en la Universidad
Complutense (3º en la convocatoria de junio del 2008),
y teniendo en cuenta que nuestros alumnos solo han
cursado en el sistema español los dos últimos años
de su educación, consideramos estos resultados más
que satisfactorios.
Actualmente ofrecemos dos bachilleratos: Ciencias
y Tecnología / Humanidades y Ciencias Sociales.
A partir del curso 2009-2010 ampliaremos el programa inglés, además de hacer los exámenes de Advanced en Y12 y de Proficiency en Y13 de Cambridge
University.
Sport/Physical Education
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Extra-Curricular Activities
T
he school offers a variety of activities, mainly sports and creative arts, mostly for the Infant and Junior departments, although some of them are also open to the Seniors. Ballet, Judo, Football, Tennis and Musical
Theatre are popular activities. Other activities are available as long as there is sufficient demand.
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Special Events / Excursions
E
very year events are celebrated at school for different reasons; cultural, fund raising and school tradition.
Sometimes the whole school participates, and others, a particular department. Some events celebrated this
year are: Halloween, Save the Children’s race, Carnival, San Isidro and the School Fete.
All the year groups go on excursions several times a year to a variety of places; museums, castles, art workshops,
the theatre, concerts, local towns and the countryside, to mention a few. Overnight trips are also organized such
as the farm trip, ski trip and camping.
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Acknowledgements
Many people contributed their time and effort to making this
magazine possible.
May I take this opportunity to thank each and all of them.
Thanks to all the professional educators, the retired staff, the
ex-students and the parents of ex-students for their testimonials.
Sincere appreciation to the senior management team, the present
staff and secretaries for their contributions to the text.
Thanks to Angela Drummond for her art ideas and guiding the
students in their artwork and design for the magazine.
Thanks to Nerea Sáenz for compiling the old photographs and
taking pictures of the excursions and special events.
Thanks to Edward King for the photographs of the two parties.
My heartfelt thanks and sincere appreciation to all of you
who are now, or have been, such a valued part of
The English Montessori School family.
Milagros Alonso Ortiz
President of TEMS
The English Montessori School
Dirección: Calle de La Salle s/n
Teléfono: tFax: 913 071 543
email: t.e.m.s@teleline.es
www.englishmontessorischool.com
Photographers: George King and Javier Gómez
Front Cover Design: Clara San Segundo - (student of Year 9)
Tems Today Design: Javier Peñas - (student of Year 11)
Layout and Printing: Artes Gráficas G3, S.A.
35thBOOJWFSTBSZr
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email: t.e.m.s@teleline.es
www.englishmontessorischool.com