Unidad Educativa Santana

The school defines itself as a secular, co-educational institution that promotes a holistic and quality education. Its educational philosophy is rooted in values such as love, truth, freedom, and peace, aiming to foster self-aware, responsible, and critical individuals. It emphasizes a discipline system based on reflection and the understanding of consequences rather than punitive measures, asserting that true freedom requires responsibility.

The school offers a trilingual curriculum (Spanish, English, and French) and follows the 'Teaching for Understanding' pedagogical approach in basic education. It is authorized to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme for students aged 16 to 19 and is a candidate for the IB Middle Years Programme. The academic offering includes a strong emphasis on arts (plastic arts, music, theater, and dance), physical education, and specialized programmes such as 'Nuestro Hermano' for social awareness and 'Autoconocimiento' for personal development.

The school aims to develop students who are autonomous, critical thinkers, and socially responsible. Graduates of the Bachillerato programme are prepared for university studies, with many participating in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, which is recognized by universities worldwide. The school emphasizes the development of a specific learner profile, including attributes such as being inquisitive, knowledgeable, principled, and balanced.

The Department of Orientation and Counseling provides personalized assistance to students and their families to support academic success. This department conducts systemic evaluations and offers psychological follow-up for students who require it. Furthermore, the school implements a semi-inclusive approach, providing either full-time or part-time tutor support for students with learning difficulties.

The school operates a non-discriminatory admissions process for students from the Initial Level (age 3) through the third year of Bachillerato. It offers a semi-inclusive model for students with learning difficulties, providing personalized accompaniment through tutors depending on individual needs. Interested families are invited to contact the school directly for information on the application process.

The school operates across two campuses in Cuenca: the 'Ciudad de los Niños' campus for students from maternal level to seventh grade, and the 'Campus Matriz' for secondary students. The facilities include specialized educational spaces, inclusive accessibility resources, a closed coliseum, and both synthetic and semi-professional grass soccer fields. The school also maintains its own weather station.

The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including arts, sports, and community service. The Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) programme is a fundamental component for older students, encouraging experiential learning through artistic, physical, and service-oriented projects. Additionally, the school organizes sports integration events and maintains international exchange programmes with institutions in the United States and other schools in Ecuador.