We are a family
Founded in August 2016 as a pilot program, Journey School of Costa Rica, Tamarindo began with just 20 learners in the vibrant Gold Coast region. It was established with a vision to grow purposefully and in a spirit of excellence. Since then, the Tamarindo campus has expanded to 290 students enrolled both on campus and online, supported by a dedicated team of 30 teachers and advisors.
Tamarindo serves as our flagship campus and the professional development hub for the entire Journey School of Costa Rica family. It is also a laboratory for innovation in education, constantly refining our understanding of educational excellence and pushing the boundaries of what a school can be.Education at Journey School is more than academics—it is a joyful and adventurous journey. We focus on delight, kindness, and discovery within a vibrant international community.
We invite you to explore what makes us a unique and nurturing environment for learning and growth.
Our Philosophy
COMMUNITY
Journey School is a community. We are a family. At Journey School of Costa Rica, our doors are wide open, nurturing a culture of inclusivity and unity that bridges families and the school. Here, we cultivate a profound sense of community peace, where each member sees themselves as an essential component of a broader community of learners.
CORE VALUES
At the heart of our philosophy lie our core values: joy, kindness, compassion, empathy, gratitude, curiosity, and, above all, love. These values guide us in fostering a supportive atmosphere where every individual feels valued and respected.
REGGIO EMILIA
Drawing inspiration from the renowned Reggio Emilia approach, we recognize the importance of nurturing strong relationships and valuing each child's unique perspective. Through the "100 Languages of Children," including art, play, and exploration, we empower students to express themselves creatively and develop a deep understanding of the world around them.
SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING
We believe in the power of social-emotional learning (SEL) to cultivate resilience and bridge learning gaps. Our approach to SEL is woven into every aspect of our curriculum, ensuring that emotional well-being is prioritized alongside academic success.
CONSCIOUS DISCIPLINE
Conscious Discipline is an evidence-based, trauma-informed approach that lies at the heart of our educational philosophy. It empowers educators to seamlessly integrate social-emotional learning, discipline, and self-regulation into their practices. By prioritizing the teaching of vital life skills over policing behavior, Conscious Discipline ensures that students receive the support they need to thrive emotionally, academically, and socially.
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIVITY
Journey School is a community of staff, students, and families who respect and honor the contributions of people from diverse backgrounds. We welcome students from 35 countries, speaking 27 native languages and dialects. We are incredibly proud of the rich diversity within our community, which brings together families from around the globe.
RESTORATIVE JUSTICE
In times of conflict, we embrace restorative justice principles, viewing challenges as opportunities for creative problem-solving and growth. Our commitment to respect, forgiveness, and effective communication enables us to navigate conflicts with empathy and understanding, preserving the fabric of our community.
PROJECT BASED LEARNING
Our project-based learning (PBL) model goes beyond rote memorization, encouraging students to actively engage with their studies and apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios. Through PBL, students cultivate essential skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and self-regulation, preparing them for success in an ever-changing world.
Campus Locations
Tamarindo
Our flagship campus, and the hub of professional development for all of the schools in the Journey School of Costa Rica family,
Costa Ballena
Imagine a school where every day is an adventure, surrounded by the breathtaking vistas of Costa Ballena. Journey School of Costa Rica,