The Heart of Our Community
At International Montessori School in Sotogrande, we deeply believe that exceptional education begins with exceptional people. We are more than just a team of educators—we are an educational family, united by our passion for guiding, inspiring, and supporting each child on their journey of discovery and lifelong learning.
Our team is made up of dedicated professionals who work each day with respect, trust, and collaboration, creating a warm and enriching environment where every student can flourish. Together, we bring to life our mission of Education for Life, cultivating not only brilliant minds but also compassionate hearts, ready to shape the future.
We invite you to meet the individuals who make IMS a unique and meaningful place.
A Committed Team
Tamara Muñoz
Head of Director
Hi, I am Tamara, School Director & Emotional Intelligence Educator at IMS.
I hold a degree in Psychology from the University of Málaga, with master’s studies in Social Integration and Intervention, as well as in Emotional Intelligence in Children and Adolescents. I am also a certified Coach by the International Coaching Federation (ICF), and accredited as a Positive Discipline Educator by the American Positive Discipline Association.
My background includes specialized training in Montessori School Leadership and Management, along with an intensive course in Montessori pedagogy and hands-on experience with its materials.
Childhood is my passion. To accompany a child through their developmental journey is, to me, the most meaningful legacy I can leave in this world. I am the daughter of a hardworking woman and was raised with a deep appreciation for the role of women in all aspects of life—not just as mothers, but as leaders, professionals, and changemakers.
Today, my mission is to contribute to society by planting seeds of values such as equality, honesty, respect, and solidarity, while driving a shift toward a holistic education built by and for every child.
Viviane Dumont
Studies Director
My name is Viviane Carvalho Dumont, director of studies at International Montessori School and French Teacher.
I am a preschool teacher with a diploma from HEB-Defre in Belgium.
I am trained in the Montessori Method of Education from 0 to 12 years old. I have more than fifteen years of experience as a preschool teacher in Europe and Japan where I became the principal of an International Montessori school in Tokyo during four years before moving to Spain.
I started my work in International Montessori School in Sotogrande when the Montessori project started with children from Nido and Infant Community. Today, I am the director of studies and I also French teacher for students from 3 to 12 years old. I am part of a Bilingual Montessori program for Montessori schools funded by the European Union. I consider my work as an academic guide for our teachers. I believe that we never stop learning. It is beautiful when our students teach us new facts. I like to be close to the classes and observe our students.
I love travelling around the world and learning from new cultures.
Nido & Infant Community
María Castillo
Guide in Nido
My name is María Castillo, and I am the Nido classroom guide at IMS. I hold a degree in Sociology and a diploma in Infant Assistance from the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), obtained in 2024.
My journey in education began as a Montessori Assistant in a school in Austria, where I discovered my true calling: accompanying children through their earliest years of life. Since then, I have followed this path with passion and dedication at IMS.
I deeply believe that the first three years of life are foundational in a child’s development. I feel truly privileged to be part of this stage—gently guiding each meaningful discovery with love and respect.
“Sow good ideas in children—even if they don’t understand them. The years will decipher them in their understanding and make them bloom in their hearts.”
– Maria Montessori
Elisa Medina
Infant Community
Hello! My name is Elisa María Medina Lavado, Montessori Assistant in Nido and Infant Community.
I have been part of IMS since 2021, joining this educational community at the age of 20—full of enthusiasm and eager to learn.
I completed a Higher Degree in Early Childhood Education, and when I discovered the Montessori methodology, I immediately felt connected to its approach to learning. This inspired me to pursue training and become a certified AMI Montessori Assistant.
From a young age, I always knew that my future would be tied to education, and today I feel incredibly proud to have turned that lifelong vocation into my profession.
Over the past few school years, I’ve worked in the Nido environment, and I currently serve as an assistant in the Infant Community. Every day, I accompany each child through their individual development—nurturing their self-esteem, encouraging their independence, and ensuring they feel supported in a warm and safe environment.
It is truly a pleasure and an honor to walk alongside your children during such a special stage in their lives.
Ana E. Guerrero
Guide Infant Community
Hi, I am Ana Esther, Montessori Guide & Environmental Education Teacher.
I hold a diploma in Early Childhood Education, a degree in Psychopedagogy, and I am a certified Montessori Guide for the 0–6 age group. I have been working as an educator since 2008.
Since I was a child, I knew I wanted to be like my mother—a teacher working with young children. Even as a teenager, I began working with little ones, and that early experience confirmed my vocation.
Throughout my career, I have taught in a variety of educational settings, including special education, early childhood, and primary education. I have also provided private tutoring to students from early years through secondary school, supporting them across all subjects.
I truly love my job and feel passionate about education. I am committed to lifelong learning and personal growth. Among my greatest interests are reading, educational innovation, and everything related to nature and caring for our planet.
Vanessa Villa
Infant Community
My name is Vanessa Villa, I´m Assistant in Infant Community.
Lorena Granizo
Guide Infant Community
My name is Lorena Granizo, and I am a Montessori Guide on the Infant Community Square team.
I hold a degree in Pedagogy from the Complutense University of Madrid and a Master’s degree in Montessori Pedagogy for ages 0–6.
I also hold a C1 Advanced English certificate from Trinity College London and am currently preparing for the C2 level. In addition, I am certified in First Aid, Emotional Intelligence for Teachers, and Positive Discipline in Early Childhood, among other areas.
After completing my degree, I lived and worked abroad—first in England and later in Australia—where I earned a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.
In my free time, I love to travel and enjoy sports, yoga, dancing, hiking, and spending time in nature, especially by the sea. I also enjoy swimming, writing, and reading.
I joined this school in 2020. I first trained as a Montessori Assistant (0–6), and later as a Montessori Guide (0–6) certified by AMI (Association Montessori Internationale).
I believe that education must be grounded in values and respect—not only for others, but also for all living beings, our environment, and, of course, ourselves.
Montessori is not just an educational method for me; it is a way of life. Working with children in this school gives me the feeling that I am contributing something meaningful to humanity.
“Education is a treasure that will follow its owner anywhere.”
Children´s House
Sara Martín
Guide in Children´s House
My name is Sara, and I am Guide in Children´s House Yellow Team. I am Early Childhood Educator, certified as a Montessori Assistant by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) and as a Children’s House Guide by the International Montessori Institute (IMI). I currently serve as the lead Spanish language reference in the Children’s House environment.
I joined this school in March 2016, and it was here that I experienced a personal and professional transformation—I discovered the Montessori Method. Since then, I have witnessed this tribe grow into the school it is today.
Guiding the small hands that one day may change the world is something powerful, beautiful, and deeply fulfilling. My work with and for children inspires me to reflect, to seek something better, and to continue learning every single day.
“Choose a job that you like and you won’t have to work a single day of your life”
Vanessa Coso
Guide in Children´s House
My name is Vanessa, I am currently working as an English speaker guide in Children´s house.
I started my career studying a Diploma in childcare and early years education and I did my internship in Torino Italia at Scuolo Comunale dell infanzia Varallo where I witnessed an alternative education to the traditional one. Then, I studied for a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Years Foundation Stage for 3 years at the University of Seville. Meanwhile, I was working at some nursery schools. I moved to England in 2014 in order to improve my English and go further in my future as a teacher.
In 2015 I had the opportunity to work in a small Montessori setting and it is there through the Montessori philosophy, that I found a method that truly speaks to everything I had searched for in Education. I took a two-year course with International Montessori Institute to become a Children’s House Guide and I also became a Positive Discipline parent Educator.
I believe in Montessori education as an education that can transform society into a better world.
“We must look to the children as a vehicle for bringing change to humanity.”
Maria Montessori, The 1946 London Lectures, p. 108.
Jesica Jiménez
Guide in Children´s House
My name is Jesica Jiménez, and I am a Montessori Guide at the Children’s House stage. I hold a degree in Early Childhood Education, a master’s degree in Montessori Pedagogy, and I am certified as a Children’s House Guide by the International Montessori Institute (IMI). At IMS, I am also the lead Spanish language reference in the Children’s House environment.
I began my journey at this school in 2017, starting my practicum at Nanitos (Early Childhood Education Center) after completing my master’s degree. I had the opportunity to work in both the Infant Community and Children’s House environments. When Nanitos evolved into International Montessori School, I continued my work—initially in the Infant Community, and since 2021, in the Children’s House.
Working with the Montessori method has allowed me to accompany children’s development from a deeper and more respectful perspective—honoring their individuality and supporting their holistic growth every step of the way.
Lola Horas
Assistant in Children´s House
My name is Lola Horas, and I am a Montessori Assistant and the English language lead in the Children’s House environment at IMS. I hold a degree in Pedagogy from the University of Seville and am certified by AMI as a Montessori Assistant for the 3–6 age group.
I spent six years in London working as a teacher at a bilingual (English–Spanish) nursery school, where I also taught Spanish to students from other language backgrounds. During my time there, I earned the Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE). Upon returning to Spain, I worked at an early childhood center where I led the English language program, and I also became certified as a children’s yoga instructor.
After four years in Madrid, I moved to Lima, Peru, where I combined my three greatest passions—children, yoga, and nutrition—and created Yogitritious, a holistic project rooted in child well-being.
In 2019, after returning to Spain, I began teaching yoga to IMS students. Following a year off to care for my baby, I rejoined this wonderful family in January 2022—this time as a full member of the educational team.
Paula Collado
Assistant in Children´s House
My name is Paula Collado, and I am a Montessori Assistant and the Spanish Language Lead in the Children’s House environment.
I have been part of this wonderful family since September 2020.
I hold a degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Granada and am certified as a Montessori Assistant (3–6 years) by AMI (Association Montessori Internationale).
I’ve always had a special connection with children—I believe they are the driving force that will shape the future. Being able to support them as they grow into unique and extraordinary human beings fills me with deep joy.
One of my greatest strengths is the close, affectionate bond I form with the children and the warmth with which I accompany them each day.
“The way to make good children is to make them happy.”
Verónica Kundomal
Assistant in Children´s House
My name is Verónica Kundomal, and I am a Montessori Assistant and the English language lead in the Children’s House environment at IMS.
I hold a diploma in Early Childhood Education. After several years teaching private classes and over 11 years working with children in traditional educational settings, I felt it was time for a change. That’s when I discovered Montessori pedagogy and trained as a Montessori Assistant for Children’s House through the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI).
I joined this wonderful IMS family in September 2022.
Working with children is something that motivates and inspires me every day. I feel deeply connected to the greater purpose of transforming society through education, starting from the classroom.
Among my strengths are adaptability and strong teamwork skills.
“Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.”
Elementary (Taller)
Javier Baena
Guide Taller 1
My name is Javier Baena, and I am a Montessori Guide in Taller. I hold a degree in Primary Education with a specialization in Physical Education, and I am certified as a Montessori Guide by the International Montessori Institute (IMI).
I have been applying the Montessori method for nearly two years and have conducted observations in various Montessori schools to enrich my practice. I am passionate about guiding children through their learning journey, fostering their independence, confidence, and natural love for discovery.
Seeing children grow happy, secure, and empowered—not only as strong students but also as incredible, value-driven individuals—is my greatest reward.
In my free time, I enjoy sports, spending time in nature, and traveling to explore every corner of this beautiful and surprising world. One of my strengths is my strong connection with technology, which I love integrating into my daily life and classroom activities.
I firmly believe that:
“Education is not the filling of a cup, but the lighting of a fire.”
Daniela Pereyra
Guide Taller 1
My name is Daniela Pereyra, and I am a Montessori Guide in Taller 1. Although this is my current role, I am trained to work with children from Infant Community all the way through Taller 2. I earned my Children’s House Guide certification in 2019, and later completed my training as a Guide for Taller 1 and 2 in 2022. Throughout my studies, I also worked in classrooms across all stages, gaining hands-on experience from the very beginning.
I am currently in my final year of a Bachelor’s Degree in Pedagogy.
The moment I discovered the Montessori method, I was deeply drawn to its approach—one filled with love, peace, and respect. I have always been surrounded by children, especially growing up in a large family full of younger cousins, so choosing this path felt natural to me. Finding a way to turn that passion into a profession was a dream come true.
Montessori education has allowed me to travel, grow, and meet incredible people along the way. I love hugs, and I feel so lucky that my profession offers me plenty of them every day. I also love learning—and I truly believe that education and love go hand in hand.
Teresa García
Guide Taller 2
My name is Teresa García, and I am an AMI-certified Montessori Guide for Taller 2 (ages 9–12), a role I have been passionately fulfilling since 2018.
My interest in Montessori began while studying a master’s degree in Emotional Intelligence, where I designed an EI program for preschool children that was applied in the classroom, at home, and included a parent education component. I deeply believe that collaboration between school and family is essential for children to fully develop their potential.
To better understand families’ perspectives, I completed a three-year parent education course, which gave me valuable insight into their needs and concerns. My passion for emotional development and education also led me to pursue a degree in Psychology, which I am currently completing.
Languages and meaningful communication have always fascinated me. I hold a C1 English certificate and have completed three years of training in Nonviolent Communication. Another of my great passions is travel and culture, which inspired me to complete a diploma in Tourism.
Thanks to this enriching journey, I feel incredibly fortunate to walk alongside children on their life path—growing and learning with them every day.
Jennifer Lynam
Assistant in Taller 1
My name is Jennifer Lynam, and I’m an English and Drama instructor at the International Montessori School.
Originally from Ireland, I lived and studied there, earning a Master’s degree in Drama and English and a Bachelor’s degree in Drama, English, and Classics, along with TEFL and Montessori teaching qualifications. With over 20 years of experience teaching Drama and English in diverse, international settings,
I’m passionate about fostering creativity, independence, and a love of learning. I believe education should nurture the whole child—mind, heart, and spirit—through exploration and self-expression.
Adriana Moreno
Assistant in Taller 1
My name is Adriana, and I am a Montessori Assistant in Taller 1 at IMS. I studied Primary Education, and after completing my degree, I moved to the UK to improve my English and gain professional experience. I lived there for eight years—an enriching chapter that shaped me both personally and professionally.
Becoming a mother sparked a deeper interest in the world of education, and that’s when I discovered the Montessori philosophy. From the moment I learned about it, I knew this was the path I wanted to follow.
In 2021, I earned my Montessori Assistant certification through IMI, and in 2023 I completed my studies as a Certified Early Childhood Education Technician.
I feel truly happy to be part of the IMS family, and to have the opportunity to accompany children during such a meaningful stage of their lives—helping them grow with confidence, nurturing their natural curiosity, and fostering their love for learning.
Palma Callejo
Assistant in Taller 2
My name is Palma García Hormigo. I am a certified teacher in Primary Education, Early Childhood Education, and English. My passion for science led me to become a Scientix Ambassador—a European community dedicated to the promotion of science education.
At International Montessori School, I serve as the Project Teacher across Casa de Niños to Taller 2, as well as the Spanish and Andalusian Culture Teacher in Taller 1 and 2. I also support the team as a Classroom Assistant in Taller 2.
With over 30 years of classroom experience, teaching and learning continue to be both my vocation and my source of inspiration. I currently combine my role at IMS with my work as a university tutor in the Early Childhood Education Degree at UNED (Spain’s National Distance Education University), where I teach subjects such as Early Intervention, Educational Guidance and Tutoring, and Innovative Methodologies.
I love reading and walking—especially by the beach, where I find peace and inspiration.
Mixed-Ability Environment
Andrea Torres
Psychopedagogue
My name is Andrea Torres, and I am a special education teacher and psychopedagogue in the Rainbow Classroom at IMS.
My journey in education began at the Complutense University of Madrid, where I studied Primary Education. After graduating, I moved to Oxford to learn English and explore alternative teaching methods.
I stayed in the UK for three years, and it was through a volunteer experience on a farm that I discovered special education. I began working in an educational center for individuals with autism and learning difficulties—and from that moment, I completely fell in love with this profession.
Along the way, I continued to grow through both personal and professional experiences: I completed a master’s degree in Psychopedagogy, trained as a Therapeutic Pedagogue, and took various specialized courses, including Speech Therapy in English-speaking contexts, non-verbal autism, and British Sign Language.
A year and a half ago, I joined IMS with the dream of creating a classroom where diversity is embraced with love and respect—and I found a team that welcomed and supported me from the very beginning.
Teaching is my passion, and inclusion is the goal I pursue every single day through my work.
“Different abilities, infinite possibilities.”
Fabiola López
Therapeutic Pedagogy
My name is Fabiola López-Romero Sevillano, and I am a Primary Education teacher with specializations in English and Therapeutic Pedagogy. I’m originally from Estepona, but I completed my teacher training at CEU Cardenal Herrera University in Castellón. I also hold a Master’s degree in Bilingual Education and a Master’s in Psychopedagogy.
From a very young age, I dreamed of becoming a teacher so I could truly help my students. Helping means knowing how to listen, how to accompany, and how to act. To do this well, we must understand both the strengths and the needs of each student in order to create a meaningful, autonomous learning environment.
“To teach is to educate from the heart.”
Yaiza Corrales
Early Intervention
Hello! My name is Yaiza Corrales. I am a specialist in Early Intervention, a certified Montessori Assistant, and the Spanish Language Lead in the Rainbow Classroom at IMS.
I began my journey in education by training as an Early Childhood Education Technician. After completing my initial studies, I wanted to explore other aspects of education, which led me to earn a degree in Pedagogy with a specialization in Educational Guidance from the University of Málaga.
I joined this tribe in July 2021, and from that moment on, the Montessori method transformed me—both professionally and personally.
I am certified as a Montessori Assistant for the 0–3 age group by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). I am also certified in child abuse prevention and protection, and I specialized in Early Intervention through the Pablo de Olavide University in Seville.
This combination of paths allowed me to believe in inclusion—and fight for it. IMS has given me the opportunity to grow while continuing to work toward equal opportunities for all children.
Among my strengths are my commitment to my work, valuing teamwork, being solution-oriented, deeply understanding each child in my classroom, and—most importantly—drawing smiles every single day.
“Love teaching, so that children love learning.”
Alba Pulido
Psychologist
Hello, my name is Alba Pulido. I am a psychologist specialized in the Padovan Method.
The Padovan Method of Neurofunctional Reorganization is a therapeutic approach developed by Brazilian speech therapist and educator Beatriz Padovan in the 1970s. This method is based on the premise that it is possible to rehabilitate or stimulate the central nervous system by revisiting the stages of human neurodevelopment, particularly those related to walking, speaking, and thinking.
Specialist Teachers
Tatiana Gavira
Music Teacher
Alejandro Ledesma
Movement & Motor Skills
Hi, I am Alejandro, P.E. Teacher at Montessori International School.
I hold a degree in Primary Education with a specialization in Physical Education, along with a master’s degree in Conflict Resolution and Mediation. I am also a certified Superior Handball Sports Technician and a National Handball Coach—the highest qualification in the sport.
My professional development includes courses in educational innovation, the use of ICT in the classroom, and strategies for preventing school dropout. I have over 10 years of experience as a sports coach, both in educational and competitive settings.
Currently, I coach at the First National Division level in professional handball and serve as the youth category coordinator at the Algeciras City Handball Club.
I am passionate about movement and physical activity not only as sports disciplines but as powerful educational tools. I believe they foster the holistic development of children through values such as teamwork, perseverance, respect, and personal growth.
Adrián Rodríguez
Music Teacher
Staff
Gloria Ramírez
Administrative Office
Moisés Liranzo
Maintenance and Security
Belinda Reina
Cleaning Staff
Patricia Blanco
Cleaning Staff
Olimpia Tardá – Founder and CEO
I opened my first educational center in San Roque in 2001, which gradually evolved over time. Through ongoing research and improvement, I came across Maria Montessori and discovered a completely new way of seeing both the child and education itself.: she placed the child at the center of the entire learning process.!
In traditional education, all students of the same age follow the same curriculum at the same pace. In the Montessori method, each child is unique and possesses special talents—so it is the curriculum that follows the child, not the other way around.
Moreover, Montessori education goes beyond academics, addressing the child’s social and emotional development as well. That was the moment I decided to change everything. In 2015, we opened Nanitos Montessori in Sotomarket, Sotogrande—a foundation that would eventually become International Montessori School.
The Montessori method completely transformed my vision of education. It is more than academic learning; it is education for life. I chose the “Seed of Life” as the symbol of IMS, representing our commitment to nurturing each child with care—like the seeds they are—creating the ideal conditions for them to fully flourish.
At IMS, your child will grow up feeling heard, valued, and safe—ready to transform the world with confidence and a voice of their own.
6 Reasons Why Families Choose IMS
International Montessori School more than a school — a community where your child can flourish.
Parents, students, and staff at IMS form a close-knit community that shares the same vision of education. This alignment creates coherence and consistency for the child, as what they experience at school is reflected in their own home and in the homes of their peers.
We are a boutique school. Our small size and low student-to-teacher ratios allow for a warm, personal approach. Every teacher truly knows their students, offering them a highly individualized and unique learning experience.
We are the only fully bilingual International Montessori School in the region, officially recognized by both the Junta de Andalucía and international Montessori associations. From Nido to Taller, we meet both national and international curriculum standards—while staying true to our own identity.
Our educators live their vocation with passion and commitment. They believe deeply in our educational model and engage in continuous training to offer the highest level of care and attention to their students. They are supported by a leadership team that shares and drives every initiative for continuous improvement.
At IMS, inclusion and diversity are not just values—they are practices. Our multidisciplinary psycho-pedagogical team ensures that every student receives the tools, attention, and support they need to thrive and fully participate in the classroom.
Our focus is always on the child. We foster holistic education that addresses not only academic growth, but also social, emotional, and physical development. Nutrition and health are part of the curriculum as essential aspects of self-care. Emotional intelligence, social skills, public speaking, and critical thinking are integrated into daily classroom life—offering students a complete learning experience that prepares them to adapt to the uncertainties of the future.
