Rob Horgan
AFTER a few exchanged glances across the classroom – and blank looks at the funny man in glasses (me) – hands began to shoot up and smiles spread across the faces of Calpe International School’s reception class.
This was in response to one simple question: ‘Who likes coming to school?’
Described by senior staff member, Nari Randall, as a place where teachers and pupils can discover a ‘passion’ for learning, Calpe, in San Pedro, is gaining a reputation for being the ‘Rolls Royce’ of schools along the Costa del Sol.
And after the Olive Press went back to school one morning last week, its fair to say a lot has changed since the days of blackboards and chalk.
Even the state-of-the-art whiteboards have been given a 21st century makeover, with each of Calpe School’s classrooms boasting an interactive whiteboard.
It certainly has an incredible library, one of the top ten cleanest kitchens in Andalucia and an inspiring play zone.
In class, children are encouraged to learn through doing, be that show-and-tell presentations or one-on-one reading sessions.
The children even learn while they play. A series of games are set up to teach them everything from shapes and colours to math conundrums and problem solving.
Every base is covered, with one game even dedicated to improving the way children hold their pens.
“We think it is important to promote learning at school, to make learning fun,” said Randall.
“Our children go away having a passion for books and a passion for reading. If we can show them how exciting books can be, then a whole new world can be opened up for them.”
