The International School Estepona aims
“Learning the correct answers will get a child through school, but learning how to learn is a preparation for life.” – Maria Montessori’
Maria Montessori recognised that children have a natural willingness to explore and that the best motivation for learning is self-motivation.
Classrooms use the Montessori materials and teacher lead activities that inspire children to learn through play and exploration such as blocks, art, play dough, dressing-up, puppets etc. While children are encouraged to make their own choices and take responsibility for what they would like to do in the classroom. Teachers will facilitate their learning by extending their experiences through structured/academic and group activities.
We build upon the foundation of concrete learning into a more abstract one. Our primary programme follows The National Curriculum in England and Wales, which has a strong focus on the three R’s (Reading, Writing and Arithmetic). In addition, the School syllabus includes Science, Spanish, History, Geography, R.E, Music, Art, Drama and PE. These subjects are taught by dedicated, experienced teachers, who strive to help each child to be motivated, inspired and to perform at his or her full potential. We wish to instil in our children a set of attributes, skills and values that will enable them to make informed choices and become responsible, principled pupils with an informed global perspective.
A Safe and Caring School Environment
The safety, happiness, and well-being of our pupils are at the heart of school life. We maintain rigorous safeguarding procedures, follow safer recruitment practices, and ensure all staff receive regular training in child protection, behaviour management, and health and safety.
Our safeguarding approach ensures:
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A secure and supportive learning environment
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Immediate reporting and recording of concerns
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Close communication with parents
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Clear procedures aligned with Spanish child‑protection law
Every child has the right to feel safe, respected, and valued.
Positive Behaviour and Emotional Well-being
We believe children learn best when they feel confident, supported, and understood. Our Behaviour Policy promotes kindness, respect, and responsibility through:
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Positive reinforcement and praise
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Clear expectations and consistent routines
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Restorative conversations
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Age‑appropriate consequences
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Support from our school counsellor when needed
We work closely with families to ensure a consistent and caring approach.
Anti‑Bullying Commitment
We are a telling school where pupils are encouraged to speak up and seek help. All unkind behaviour is taken seriously, investigated promptly, and followed up with support for everyone involved.
Our approach includes:
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Early identification of concerning behaviour
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Restorative practices
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Emotional coaching and social‑skills support
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Regular monitoring by senior staff
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Strong partnership with parents
Bullying in any form is not tolerated.
High‑Quality Teaching and Learning
Our curriculum is based on:
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The English National Curriculum (KS1 & KS2)
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The EYFS Framework (Nursery & Reception)
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Montessori principles in the Early Years
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Spanish language and cultural learning
We provide a broad, balanced, and engaging curriculum that encourages independence, curiosity, and creativity. Teachers use a wide range of strategies to support learning, including:
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Clear learning objectives
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Differentiation and scaffolding
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Practical and investigative activities
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Digital learning tools such as 3P Learning (Mathletics, Reading Eggs)
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Regular assessment and personalised feedback
Every child is supported to reach their full potential.
Marking, Feedback, and Assessment
Feedback is designed to build confidence and help children understand their next steps. Our approach includes:
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Verbal feedback during lessons
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Written feedback is age‑appropriate
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Clear success criteria
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Opportunities for self‑assessment and reflection
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Positive reinforcement through ClassDojo
In EYFS, feedback is primarily verbal and observational, in line with best practice.
Health, Safety, and Supervision
We follow strict health and safety procedures to ensure a secure environment for all pupils. This includes:
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Regular risk assessments
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Safe supervision ratios in EYFS
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Daily premises checks
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Fire/Emergency drills each term
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First aid provision and trained staff
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Secure access and visitor protocols
Children are never left unsupervised, and all areas of the school are monitored carefully.
Communication and Partnership with Parents
We believe strong home–school communication is essential. Parents receive regular updates through:
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The school platform
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Parent meetings
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Written reports
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Email communication with teachers and leadership
We welcome open dialogue and work collaboratively with families to support each child’s development.
Homework at The International School Estepona
Homework at The International School Estepona is designed to support classroom learning in a meaningful and age‑appropriate way. In EYFS, there is no formal homework; instead, families are encouraged to enjoy reading and language-rich activities at home. In Primary, homework is purposeful and reinforces key skills such as reading, spelling, and mathematics. Digital platforms like Mathletics and Reading Eggs offer engaging practice opportunities, while teachers ensure that tasks remain manageable and supportive of each child’s progress. Our approach recognises the importance of balance, allowing children time for rest, play, and family life.
Extra‑Curricular Activities
Our after‑school programme offers children the chance to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build confidence beyond the classroom. These activities encourage creativity, teamwork, physical development, and personal growth in a safe and supportive environment. Clubs run from Monday to Friday, from 4:00 to 5:00 pm, and include options such as Spanish Club, ESL Club, Sports Club, Drama Club, Homework Club, Drawing Club, and others offered throughout the year.
For further information, please contact admin@marbellaschool.com, WhatsApp +34 635 347 023, or call +34 952 886 926.
Contact us today for a tour of the school or to enroll your child