Boundless Life’s innovative 9-month programme offers two small groups of students (aged 8-9 and 10-12) a chance to learn and explore the world across three of our stunning locations: Syros, Kotor and Tuscany.

But who are the guiding lights on this adventure? Let's meet the two Lead Educators who will complete this incredible journey with their students!

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Pathfinders in Motion Lead Educator Bios 

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🌟 Originally from the United Kingdom and Italy, Chiara holds an Honours Degree in Primary Education from the University of Winchester, with specialised expertise in Digital Learning and English. 

🌟 Chiara is passionate about promoting the reading-for-pleasure movement alongside using new and exciting technologies. 

🌟 Her teaching philosophy centres on research-based practices and a belief that “every moment counts.” Her own research on children’s attainment and wellbeing in relation to poverty has been published. She is dedicated to unlocking each child’s potential through purposeful learning experiences.

🌟 As a computing curriculum lead, Chiara also spearheaded the integration of cutting-edge digital learning tools, including hardware for coding and Lego robotics. 

🌟 She meticulously tracked data across core subjects, driving notable progression in her students in English and Mathematics through mastery methods. 

🌟 In her free time, Chiara enjoys Cuban salsa dancing, spending time outdoors, and, of course, travelling!

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🌟 Fiona holds a Master’s Degree in Primary Education, specialising in Math and Science. 

🌟 As an Irish-Portuguese educator, she has extensive experience working in international school environments, where she has taught diverse curricula and enriched this with her holistic approach to education.

🌟 Fiona is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusivity to foster academic success for all students. 

🌟 She has collaborated in developing and implementing school-wide initiatives, including the ‘Apple Distinguished School’ project, which focuses on promoting educational technology and innovative teaching practices. Additionally, she has served as the Coordinator of the ‘Eco-School Project’, leading a team of teachers and students to implement sustainability practices and initiatives across the school and community.

🌟 Her international experience includes working at Espoo International School in Finland, where she supported teachers from grades 2 to 6 as an Erasmus+ Post-Graduate Programme Participant.

🌟 In her free time, Fiona enjoys exploring nature, running, watching football, and engaging in stimulating conversations.

I caught up with them both as they prepare to join us for our inaugural Pathfinders in Motion programme - setting off this September 2024! 

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What excites you most about the Pathfinders in Motion programme?

Chiara: What excites me most about the Pathfinders in Motion programme is its forward-thinking approach to holistic education. Our incredible adventure offers a unique blend of immersive, hands-on learning opportunities for students within a global community. Having the chance to explore the world, experience new cultures, and solve real-world challenges will be life-changing for my students and myself!

Fiona: What excites me most is the unique opportunity it provides for students and educators to learn in a dynamic and ever-changing environment. Travelling to different countries not only broadens our horizons but also allows us to experience education in a deeply immersive and interactive way. Witnessing students, and myself, grow and adapt to new cultures while learning will be incredible!

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How will you tailor your teaching approach to incorporate the benefits of travel and different cultural experiences?

Chiara: We will embark on a journey of exploring new cultures together! Upon reaching each destination, I plan to integrate locally rich experiences that foster global awareness and celebrate our diverse, interconnected world. Boundless provides a project-based curriculum that encourages students to design ‘Quests’ encompassing cultural practices. Utilising field trips for experiential learning will inspire new questions and deeper exploration.

Fiona:  I will be a teacher learning and adapting in motion as well!  Boundless has a well-structured curriculum that is student-centred and project-based. Each destination is rich in culture, which will be an amazing focal point to lead us to our projects - or in Boundless terms, ‘our Quests’. These Quests will prompt new questions we want to explore, allowing us a hands-on approach.

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What are some of the primary skills you hope students will develop during this 9-month journey?

Chiara: Throughout this 9-month journey, I aim for my students to broaden their perspective and deepen their appreciation for diversity. 

- Engaging in project-based ‘Quests’ and confronting real-world challenges will nurture critical thinking and problem-solving skills. 

- Collaborating with peers in a diverse community will enhance their interpersonal skills, empathy, and cultural understanding. 

- Navigating new environments will build adaptability and resilience. 

- Participation in group activities will foster leadership and teamwork, while reflecting on their experiences will promote a growth mindset and instil lifelong learning habits. 

These experiences will empower them to thrive academically and personally.

Fiona: Students will develop strong intercultural communication skills, adaptability, and a global perspective. They will enhance their problem-solving abilities and resilience by navigating new environments and challenges. Critical thinking and creativity will also be key skills fostered through navigating new environments and tackling the ‘Quests’. Ultimately, the aim is to cultivate habits and behaviours that support lifelong learning and a sense of community as they travel and learn together.

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Chiara, what personal travel experiences have shaped your approach to education?

Chiara: My personal travel experiences have profoundly shaped my approach to education. Visiting diverse countries and immersing myself in various cultures have taught me the importance of cultural empathy and understanding. For instance, my Erasmus exchange in Hungary exposed me to their education system’s emphasis on storytelling and collaboration, which influenced how I structure reading and group activities in my classroom. Additionally, trekking through Iceland’s ice caves highlighted the value of experiential learning and sparked my passion for integrating real-world experiences into my teaching. These experiences have all contributed to my belief in the transformative power of travel to broaden perspectives and inspire awe and wonder in my students.

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Fiona, how will you help students navigate cultural differences and build intercultural understanding across our three chosen locations?

Fiona: The first place we will explore and navigate the cultural differences will be within our classroom. By promoting cultural awareness among ourselves first, we will develop an understanding of what lies beyond. We will immerse ourselves in the local communities, exploring the uniqueness and knowledge they have to offer us, every week.

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Finally, what advice do you have for families considering the Pathfinders in Motion programme for their children?

Chiara: If you’re considering the Pathfinders in Motion programme for your children, embrace this unique opportunity wholeheartedly. We will encourage your child to embrace each new experience with curiosity and openness. Discuss the importance of cultural diversity and global awareness, as these will be central to our journey. Stay engaged with their learning adventures and support their reflections on what they encounter. 

Trust that the programme’s emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world challenges will foster invaluable skills like critical thinking, empathy, and adaptability. Ultimately, this journey promises to be transformative, equipping your child with the tools they need to thrive!

Fiona: I believe this programme offers a fantastic opportunity to embrace what the world has to offer by learning life skills and experiences through a well-structured and holistic approach to learning. 

One of the hardest parts for the students on a travelling education journey might be the potential loss of the learning community and the connections made with classmates and teachers. However, in Pathfinders in Motion, we will embark on a 9-month journey together! We will go on adventures, conduct experiments, and reflect on how much we have grown and achieved, both as a group and individually.

Together, we will create a safe and enriching environment for a full year of learning!

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Huge thanks to you both for taking the time to introduce yourselves to our community. We are fortunate to have you on board and can’t wait to see your Pathfinders in Motion adventure begin. 

If you would like your children to join Fiona and Chiara on a voyage of discovery and learning we would love to tell you more! But hurry - spaces are limited to 10 children per age group and these are filling up quickly!