I Cycle: Discovering, Creating, and Learning
A bilingual program for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade in which students strengthen their language skills and develop critical thinking through projects and real-life experiences.
Growing Together Through Meaningful Learning
Bilingual Program (Spanish–English)
Schedule: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Primer Grado
6 años cumplidos antes del 15 de febrero de 2026
During the first cycle, students strengthen their proficiency in both languages while expanding their knowledge in key areas such as Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies of Costa Rica and the world. Through an interactive approach, they engage in collaborative projects and hands-on learning experiences that connect academic content to everyday life.
By using innovative resources and dynamic methodologies, students develop essential reading, writing, and problem-solving skills, while also enhancing their ability to work collaboratively and make informed decisions. All of this takes place in an environment that supports continuous and meaningful learning.
Our program offers:
Academic bilingualism that integrates speaking, thinking, and learning in English
Weekly access to science and technology laboratories
Small groups that allow personalized attention and close follow-up
An international curriculum that enriches the MEP programs
Education with Purpose and Balance
In the early years of primary school, children learn in an active and joyful way, exploring the world around them while developing the skills to think, interact, and learn with meaning. Each day is an opportunity to grow, discover, and enjoy learning in an environment that nurtures both academic and emotional development.
Our approach encourages curiosity, active participation, and meaningful learning, laying strong foundations for the holistic growth of every student.
Key learning areas in Cycle I
These are the areas that will transform your child into a competent, curious, and confident student:
English: Communication and Comprehension in a Second Language
In Cycle I, English learning develops naturally through meaningful, immersive, and purposeful communication. Students expand their vocabulary, strengthen listening and reading skills, and gain confidence expressing ideas clearly and effectively, building a strong foundation for academic bilingualism.
Instruction is aligned with international language standards. English is taught through full immersion with native-speaking teachers, ensuring exposure to authentic language models that promote fluency, accurate pronunciation, and strong phonemic awareness.
Our Houghton Mifflin Harcourt program supports learners from beginner to advanced levels, allowing differentiated instruction and steady progress according to each student’s linguistic development. English is also used as a vehicle for learning across subject areas, strengthening comprehension and academic confidence.
Throughout this process, students develop:
- Progressive listening and reading comprehension
- Oral expression with confidence, clarity, and purpose
- Writing with structure, coherence, and intention
- Accurate pronunciation and phonemic awareness
- Use of English as a tool for learning academic content
Spanish: Language, Thinking, and Communication
In Cycle I, Spanish learning goes beyond basic reading and writing. Students develop a solid and meaningful command of the Spanish language that allows them to communicate with clarity, confidence, and purpose.
They progress from emerging readers to critical readers and move from writing simple sentences to expressing increasingly complex ideas with their own voice, strengthening their oral expression in diverse contexts.
Instruction follows national curriculum guidelines and is enriched with international literacy approaches that emphasize critical thinking, communication, and student voice.
Throughout this process, students develop:
- Consolidation of literacy skills leading to critical reading
- Deep comprehension of narrative, informational, and literary texts
- Written production with structure, purpose, and personal style
- Conscious use of spelling and grammar
- Oral expression ranging from conversation to presentations and debates
Mathematics: Applied Logical Thinking
In Cycle I, mathematics is experienced in a practical, visual, and meaningful way, closely connected to everyday life. This subject is taught in English, promoting logical reasoning, mathematical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
The program aligns with international mathematics standards and supports students with varying levels of language proficiency, encouraging natural language immersion while building confidence and understanding in both languages.
Throughout this process, students develop:
- Number sense from tens to thousands
- Basic operations with deep conceptual understanding
- Simple and multi-step problem solving
- Progressive introduction to fractions and decimals
- Applied geometry and pattern recognition
- Measurement, time, and money in real-life contexts
- Initial exploration of data and probability
Educational Resources
We use i-Maths, a visual and hands-on platform that strengthens conceptual understanding and logical reasoning. Students also have home access to reinforce learning and consolidate skills continuously.
Science: Thinking Like Scientists
In Cycle I, science is learned by doing science. Students observe, experiment, and discover the world around them while applying the scientific method from an early age.
Classes take place in the Science Laboratory, a space designed to spark curiosity, encourage experimentation, and strengthen critical thinking.
This approach aligns with international science education frameworks, fostering inquiry, observation, and evidence-based reasoning.
Throughout this process, students explore:
- Life Sciences
- Earth Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Scientific inquiry and data analysis
Social Studies and the World
Costa Rican Social Studies, history, and geography are integrated to help students understand how people, places, and events are connected across time and space. Learning begins in the students’ immediate environment and gradually expands toward regional and global understanding, promoting responsible global citizenship.
Throughout this process, students develop:
- Historical thinking
- Geographic skills
- Cultural perspective
- Connections between past, present, and future
Sustainability: Guardians of the Planet
Living in Bijagua, within a biological corridor, is both a privilege and a responsibility. Sustainability education promotes environmental awareness, respect for nature, and active engagement in the conservation of the natural and social environment.
From the early years, students understand the interconnection between ecosystems and human communities. Each educational level takes responsibility for designing and implementing age-appropriate projects focused on environmental protection, responsible use of resources, and support for the local population and community.
These projects encourage observation, inquiry, action, and reflection, strengthening students’ sense of belonging, empathy, and active participation. Through authentic learning experiences, students develop a strong ecological awareness and a deep understanding of their role as agents of change within their community and the natural environment that surrounds them.
During this process, students learn about:
- Ecosystems and their interconnection with human communities
- Climate change through the GLOBE Program
- Community water quality analysis and conservation
- Human impact on the environment and responsible decision-making
- Recycling programs and responsible waste management
- Organic school garden and sustainable food practices
- Basic renewable energy concepts
- Natural cycles and environmental balance
- Community needs and service-based sustainability projects
Library: Nurturing Passionate Readers
The library is the academic heart of the campus. Here, a love for reading is cultivated through daily independent reading, guided reading, and research using both physical and digital resources, supporting literacy across all subject areas.
Technology Lab: Discovery Through Play
A space where technology becomes a tool for creating, exploring, and solving problems, aligned with international digital literacy and computational thinking standards.
Throughout this process, students:
- Create digital stories
- Develop critical thinking
- Explore cause and effect
- Learn sequencing and logic
- Express creative ideas
Visual Arts: Creativity, History, and Expression
In Visual Arts, students develop creativity while exploring art as a form of communication, reflection, and understanding of the world. Through hands-on projects, they experiment with diverse techniques including painting, sculpture, collage, drawing, textiles, and mixed media.
Art education integrates art history and cultural perspectives, strengthening artistic appreciation, critical thinking, and aesthetic sensitivity.
Throughout this process, students develop:
- Creative expression using diverse artistic techniques
- Knowledge of artists and artistic movements throughout history
- Appreciation of art as a cultural and social language
- Integration of art with other areas of learning
- Confidence to express ideas, emotions, and personal perspectives
Music: Exploration, Performance, and Musical Culture
Music connects emotion, culture, and learning. Students explore rhythm, melody, and harmony; develop basic music reading skills; sing collaboratively; and perform using various instruments. They also study composers, genres, and historical periods, understanding music as a reflection of human identity and culture.
Throughout this process, students develop:
- Basic music reading and performance skills
- Appreciation of diverse musical genres, styles, and eras
- Knowledge of composers and historical contexts
- Active listening, memory, and concentration
- Teamwork and emotional expression through music
Physical Education: Movement, History, and Well-Being
Physical Education promotes holistic development through movement, play, and mindful physical activity. Students explore sports and games from ancient times to the present, understanding their origins, evolution, and cultural value, while developing lifelong healthy habits.
Throughout this process, students develop:
- Gross and fine motor skills
- Knowledge of sports and their historical evolution
- Teamwork, respect, and sportsmanship (fair play)
- Body awareness, balance, and coordination
- Physical and emotional well-being habits
Active bodies sustain active minds: Physical Education is essential to academic and personal development.
Comprehensive Support Department
We provide personalized academic and socio-emotional support through early intervention, academic enrichment, and collaborative work with families, aligned with best practices in inclusive and holistic education.
Schedule Options That Adapt to Your Family’s Needs
We understand that every family is different. That’s why we offer flexible options for both parents and students.
Monday to Friday
Regular schedule 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Ideal for families with afternoon availability or part-time work schedules.
Includes:
- Full academic program
- Snack times
- All developmental areas
- Access to the library and learning resources
- Science and Technology Lab
- Arts, Music, and Physical Education
Extended Schedule
Monday to Friday - Cost ₡500 per hour
7.00 AM - 8.00 AM | 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
We offer an extended care program for families who need additional hours, guaranteeing quality attention and a safe environment after the regular school day. Includes:
- Safe supervision
- Rest/quiet time
- Recreational activities
- Afternoon snack time
Extracurricular Workshops: Explore Beyond the Classroom
Opportunities to deepen interests and develop new skills.
Schedule
Monday through Friday | 3:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Hese workshops are NOT mandatory, but they’re a fantastic way for your child to explore different activities.
Important note: Extracurriculars have an additional cost and require prior registration.
You can enroll your child in one, several, or all of them.
I Cycle - 2026
School Supplies List
This list covers all three grades of Cycle I. These are materials your child will use regularly.
Personal Supplies
- 1 pencil case 2 No.
- 2 graphite pencils box
- 1 white eraser
- 1 pencil sharpener with a receptacle
- 1 30 cm ruler
- 1 pair of round-tipped scissors
- 1 box of colored pencils (12 count)
- 1 box of markers (12 count)
- 1 glue stick 1 highlighter
- 1 whiteboard marker
- 3 bottles of 250ml tempera paint (primary colors of your choice)
- 5 paintbrushes
Stationery and Paper
- 1 ream of white letter-sized bond paper
- 1 package of assorted construction paper
- 5 sheets of cardstock (aprox.100cm x 70cm of assorted colors)
- 4 ruled notebooks, 75 pages each (labeled: Spanish, English, Science, World History) 1
- grid-lined notebook, 100 pages (labeled: Math)
- 1 letter-sized drawing notebook
- 1 plastic envelope-style folder with dividers for Spanish subjects
- 1 plastic envelope-style folder with dividers for English subjects
Hygiene and personal care
- Science Lab Apron: Contact Sidney at 71006026
- 1 toothbrush & toothpaste
- 1 Mosquito Repellent 1 Sunscreen
- 1 Pack of Hand Wipes
- 1 lunch box
- 1 reusable water bottle
- 1 small backpack.
Otros
- 1 lunch box
- 1 reusable water bottle
- Rain boots and raincoat
- 1 small backpack
*Notebooks are sent home on Fridays
Frequently Asked Questions
What all I Cycle parents ask
Does my child need to know English before enrolling?
No. Students are placed in beginner, intermediate, or advanced groups based on an initial MAP Growth assessment. Our program adapts to each child’s level for steady, effective progress.
What if my child is ahead or needs extra support?
Instruction is differentiated daily. We offer enrichment for advanced learners and targeted support through our Student Support Department when needed.
How flexible is the extended schedule?
Very flexible. You pay only for the hours you use (₡500/hour). No long-term commitment is required—use it occasionally or daily as needed.
What if my child cries at drop-off?
This is normal. Our team supports children through separation, and most settle in quickly. We keep families informed if needed.
Are extracurricular activities mandatory?
No. Extracurriculars are optional. You may choose one, several, or none.
What documents are needed for enrollment?
Passport or ID, vaccination records, and—if available—the most recent report card. We’ll guide you through the process.
What should I send in my child’s lunchbox?
Healthy, easy-to-eat foods in appropriate portions. Families receive a healthy lunchbox guide upon enrollment.
Does the school offer cafeteria service?
Yes. Snacks and lunches are available. Menus are created and supervised by a specialized nutritionist and can be managed through Cloud Campus.
Can we visit the school before enrolling?
Absolutely. We welcome visits and trial classes—just let us know.
We begin the school year for 2026.
Let’s embark together on a path to a bright future
Join Us for Enrollment at Bijagua Rainforest Academy