In Nursey
06 Groups
of 15 girls with one teacher and one teaching assistant per class.
In San Silvestre we believe that the learning process should take place in an inspiring and caring environment that gives students the opportunity to develop their different skills. We also believe that children grow and learn at their own rate; therefore we have created an environment that accepts these differences and strives to meet individual needs.
In San Silvestre we show concern for each individual pupil, encouraging her to fully develop her potential. Our system is based on a personalized programme in which the development of each pupil’s own interests are respected. From Nursery (age 3) to Sixth Form, each girl is encouraged to challenge herself and achieve her own goals.
Constant innovation enables us to adapt our curriculum and teaching methods so that they are consistent with the world in which we live.
The world is changing at an unimaginable pace and geographical boundaries have virtually been eliminated by the developments in technology. Education, which is for life, must also change in order to reflect this new reality.
With this in mind, San Silvestre introduced several years ago, new and dynamic methodology – Inquiry Based Learning (IBL), which enhanced and unified the curriculum. This process has been guided, directed and evaluated by international and bilingual experts.
We are very proud of being able to guide every girl through her learning journey with an excellent educational programme underpinned by strong pastoral support. Our pupils learn quickly to assume responsibility for their learning and to strive always to do their best. This has resulted in a strong history of outstanding academic achievements both nationally and internationally.
In order to achieve our goals we maintain small class sizes no greater than 22 which supports our concern for the individual. The School currently has more than 200 qualified teachers and teaching assistants.
In Pre-School
06 Groups
of 16 - 18 girls with one teacher and one teaching assistant per class.
In Reception
06 Groups
of 16 - 18 girls with one teacher and one teaching assistant per class.
In grades
1, 2, and 3
5 groups with an average of 20 girls with one teacher and one teaching assistant per class.
In grades
4 and 5
5 groups with an average of 20 girls per class.
In grade 6 and Form
I, II
an average of 20 students per class.
In Form
III, IV, V and VI
optional classes are directed at groups with a variable number of pupils.
The school also relies on the services and assistance of educational psychologists in all three sections.
What is IBL based on?
IBL (Inquiry Based Learning) is based on the dynamic participation of the pupils in the learning process, in which the pupil is the protagonist.
“Tell me and I forget, show me and I remember, involve me and I understand”. (Chinese proverb)
The word “inquiry” can be defined as the search for information through research. In San Silvestre School, the careful selection of topics creates a stimulating and engaging context that encourages questioning and arouses the pupils’ curiosity. The IBL process places emphasis on the development of lifelong attitudes that will enable them to continue learning as long as they live.
What are the benefits of IBL?
IBL promotes the development of:
- Open mindedness
- Critical thinking
- Independent thinking
- Problem-solving
- Decision-making
- Risk-taking
- Self-assurance
IBL is a powerful instrument that helps develop:
- Long-lasting mental skills
- Information generalization and application skills
- High level speaking, reading and writing skills
- Teamwork strategies
- A spirit of curiosity