The Top Guanacaste Private Schools Preferred By Gringos In Tamarindo
Many people may think that the expat life in Costa Rica is only for retirees. But with the rise in internet-based remote business, more and more young families are moving in – and bringing the kids along for the ride.
If you want to give your children the fabulous experience of living in a different culture and learning a new language, but still want them to receive high-quality education – know there are 4 wonderful private schools in the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica ready to offer the whole experience.
These are the top Guanacaste private schools preferred by Gringos in Tamarindo.
Costa Rica International Academy (CRIA)
Location: Brasilito (25+ minutes north of Tamarindo)
First up is the Costa Rica International Academy (CRIA). As a bilingual school (English and Spanish), all of the teachers are certified in the United States, Canada, or Costa Rica. There is also duel accreditation – by both the U.S. and the Costa Rican Ministry of Education.
The rigorous academics are combined with culture-based learning approaches. Subjects such as art, P.E./sports, local studies, and gardening, are taught in Spanish. And excursions to locations such as the Caribbean coast and various volcanoes are included in the studies.
Students also learn popular local water sports including: snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and – of course – surfing.
La Paz Community School
Location: Playa Flamingo (30+ minutes north of Tamarindo)
The next private school for children in Tamarindo is La Paz Community School.
This is also a duel language program offering instruction from preschool through high school. As an International Baccalaureate authorized school, you can feel confident that your child will have full preparation for college.
Aside from all the regular studies, La Paz places an emphasis on “Peace Practices” - focusing on learning peace among self, family, community, and the world. Mornings even start with a “morning meeting” that includes a time of silent meditation.
An aspect of environmental protection is included in the curriculum. Students learn from their environment not only by culture and language studies, but also by taking excursions to Costa Rican highlights – like volcano studies at Rincon de la Vieja.
Guanacaste Waldorf School
Location: 20 minutes southeast of Tamarindo
Many parents may already be familiar with the Waldorf schools and their style of imaginative and artistic learning. A bilingual Waldorf campus just happens to be in the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica.
This Guanacaste private school is only for preschool and elementary/primary school students. For early education, “The child learns from thoughtful prepared activities and daily celebration of life.” In grade school education, “academics are introduced in an artistic, experiential and thoughtful way that meets the development of each child.”
Educarte
Location: 15+ minutes northeast of Tamarindo
Our final bilingual Guanacaste private school is Educarte by St. Joseph. Along with a desire for high academic standards, Educarte combines the arts and care for the environment into their studies.
Through visual arts, music, and dance, Educarte offers their programs with a strong art and expression focus. They encourage students to create the own learning experiences this way.
Not only does the school itself try to minimize its own footprint through recycling and “clean campaigns,” they also actively try to have an impact on their community through lectures and programs on ecology and ethics to increase awareness among young students.
NEO School
Location: Playa Grande, 30 minutes north of Tamarindo
NEO School in Playa Grande, Costa Rica, stands out as an exceptional choice among the top Guanacaste private schools preferred by expatriates in Tamarindo. Catering to the educational needs of the younger generation, NEO School offers a nurturing environment for children from their early years through age 11.
In the age of climate change, the NEO School teaches its students to love, respect and restore nature. At NEO, students engage in the development, care, and harvesting of the school's 'food forest'. Activities such as germinating seeds, tending to young plants, and regular garden upkeep are essential components of comprehending food systems and addressing the ecological harm caused by previous generations
Their nursery school program is particularly noteworthy, providing a solid foundation in a supportive and engaging atmosphere. With a curriculum that balances academic rigor and creative exploration, NEO School is an ideal setting for families seeking a holistic education for their children in the beautiful and culturally rich region of Guanacaste.
