History

Our History

A legacy of excellence and transformation

Since 1961, The English School has been a benchmark for quality education in Bogotá. Our history is a testament to our commitment, innovation and passion for nurturing leaders who transform the world.

First Steps

Elizabeth Masson’s dream: our founder, Mrs Elizabeth Masson, laid the foundations for an educational project that would span generations.

The start of a new chapter: we moved into our current premises, a place where learning and growth thrive.

The first cohort: we saw our first students graduate – young people ready to make their mark on the world.

Growth and Recognition

The Diploma Programme (DP): we were authorised to offer the DP, a programme that promotes academic excellence and critical thinking.

25 years of commitment: we celebrated a quarter of a century of developing leaders and transforming lives.

A space for the community: we inaugurated the Community Hall, a place for gathering and celebration.

The Simón Bolívar Award: The Ministry of Education recognised our excellence with this prestigious award.

Innovation and Expansion

TESMUN and The English Coliseum: we launched TESMUN, our Model United Nations programme, and inaugurated The English Coliseum, a venue dedicated to sport and holistic development.

IB programmes: we were authorised to offer the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the Middle Years Programme (MYP), reinforcing our commitment to international education.

EFQM certifications: we obtained and renewed our EFQM certification, which recognises our excellence in management and continuous improvement.

50 years of history: we celebrated half a century of achievements and lessons learnt, receiving prestigious honours such as the José Acevedo y Gómez Civil Order of Merit, in the rank of Grand Cross

Technology accolades: we were recognised as a SMART Showcase Elite School and an Apple Distinguished School, highlighting our focus on technology and innovation.

Round Square: we joined this global network of schools, reinforcing our commitment to service and global citizenship

Council of International Schools (CIS): we joined this global network of schools, reinforcing our commitment to service and global citizenship.

KIVA Programme: we were accredited for the implementation of this programme, which promotes social entrepreneurship among our students.

Consistent Excellence

Great Place to Study: we were recognised as an excellent place to study, with particular praise for our positive and stimulating learning environment.

Years of experience: we celebrated six decades of developing leaders and transforming lives.

CIS Accreditation: We were accredited by the Council of International Schools, reaffirming our commitment to global educational excellence.

Francophone School Seal: The French Embassy awarded us this seal in recognition of our commitment to bilingual education and cultural diversity.

We were authorised to offer the Career-related Programme (CP), making us the first school in Colombia to offer the full range of IB programmes.