Journey School of Costa Rica

The school’s educational philosophy is built on a project-based, inquiry-driven approach that integrates social-emotional learning, Reggio Emilia-inspired practices, and restorative justice. It emphasizes the cultivation of character, curiosity, and academic excellence within a dual-language, inclusive community. The school aims to nurture the whole child by fostering strong relationships and empowering students to think critically and independently.

The academic programme spans from early childhood (ages 2–5) through high school (grades 9–12). The Tamarindo campus is an authorized IB World School offering the Diploma Programme (DP) for grades 11–12 and is a candidate school for the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) for grades 6–10. The curriculum incorporates bilingual instruction, with students developing proficiency in English and Spanish through daily interactions, stories, and songs.

Graduates from the Tamarindo campus may earn the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, a U.S. High School Diploma via the Middle States Association (MSA), and the Costa Rican Ministry of Public Education (MEP) 12th Grade Completion Diploma. These qualifications are designed to provide students with the flexibility to pursue higher education opportunities within Costa Rica, the United States, or at other global institutions.

Approximately 20% of the student body receives specialized support through the school's Student Support Services department. The school provides ADHD support strategies, academic modifications, reading support, and English (ESL) and Spanish (SSL) as-a-second-language services. Additionally, the school utilizes social-emotional learning, restorative justice, and conflict resolution practices to support student wellbeing.

The admissions process consists of three steps: scheduling a campus visit, submitting an application with required documentation, and receiving an acceptance decision. Required documents include a completed application form, a Student Needs form, student ID copies, previous school records, and parent/guardian ID copies. The school offers an annual scholarship program, with applications accepted between January 1 and January 30, which are evaluated based on financial need and availability.

The school provides a downloadable academic calendar for the 2026-2027 school year. This document outlines term start and end dates, public and school holidays, professional-development days, and scheduled family events.

Journey School operates two campuses on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. The Tamarindo campus serves students from Pre-K through grade 12, while the Jacó campus serves students from kindergarten through grade 12. Both locations are situated in environments designed to integrate nature with the classroom experience.

The school emphasizes athletics, with recent achievements including a national championship title for the middle school basketball team. Students also engage in project-based learning activities, such as the creation of student-produced video series and museum-style exhibitions.