The clubs’ activities begin every October and they provide an ideal environment in which children can nurture their social skills and confidence.
DES is a school with a humanitarian, democratic and modern character that cultivates a broader education and perceptions of life.
The educational material is adapted to experiential learning, experiments, discovery, and differentiation, which make learning enjoyable for the children. The enriched learning procedure, the modern pedagogical methods based on the “International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme”, the “Theory of Multiple Intelligences” (H. Gardner, Harvard University), and advanced methods of knowledge transfer, create a learning environment that increases the children’s abilities. STEM, physical education, music, foreign languages, emotional education, philosophy, rhetoric, science, mathematics, and art, compose our programme.
And all this in the bilingual environment of an IB World School!
Fostering collaboration, responsibility, engendering group loyalty and social and emotional learning are the primary characteristics of the DES House system.
The development of students’ capacity for collaboration, teamwork, loyalty and team spirit, self-confidence, self-discipline and sustained effort for the attainment of goals in the framework of inter-house sporting and academic competitions, directly correlate with the promotion of interpersonal, intrapersonal, bodily-kinaesthetic intelligence and naturalistic intelligence.
Our students…
The clubs’ activities begin every October and they provide an ideal environment in which children can nurture their social skills and confidence.
MARIA SANOZIDOU (affectionately known as Frau Maria) began her educational journey in Germany, where she discovered her passion for teaching. Maria’s teaching philosophy merges education and art, introducing young minds to artists, techniques, and art history, nurturing their creativity.
Maria leads an innovative after-school art programme, aiming to nurture children’s artistic talents and ignite their passion for art. She looks forward to embarking on this artistic journey with your children, exploring the wonderful world of art together.
EVANGELIA CHATZITZANOU is a dancer, dance teacher, and choreographer. She trained at Rallou Manou Professional
Dance School, attended numerous seminars, and performs at
festivals in Greece and abroad.
Her classes blend physical activities, group cohesion, and dance.
Students learn various dance styles, from modern to jazz and
hip-hop. Emphasis is on creative movement and improvisation,
fostering individual growth and group unity.
Evangelia’s teaching aims to enhance motor skills and connect
the body, emotions, imagination, music, space, and the collective group experience.
MARIA POULIEZOU has graduated from the Department of Theatre Studies of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. She is a holder of a recognized diploma from Iasmos Drama School and is currently attending the postgraduate course of Theatre Didactics, in the Department of Theatre Studies of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.
She has completed her internship as a theatre teacher in primary schools in Athens. As an actress she has participated in various performances over the last ten years and has collaborated with the directors Alexandros Cohen and Petros Skarmeas.
In the Theatre Workshop, DES students will have the opportunity to discover theatrical techniques through hands-on experience with the body and voice as their main tools. Through theatrical play and dramatization, children will have the opportunity to interact, explore social issues, reflect, create, and understand themselves and the people around them. Our priorities are children’s dialectical communication, development of creative expression through play and improvisation, interpersonal development through the critical and reflective approach, empathy, and self-realization.
ROCKSCHOOL provides certified high level degrees recognized by the ACF for the basic rock musical instruments—piano, electric guitar, bass guitar, drums, synthesizer but also for other fields of studies like music composition, music technology, vocals and musicals.
After completing the required educational material, participating in concerts and the annual summer exams, each registered student of art note Rockschool will receive the necessary certifications (grades). Grades help the children, depending on the College of their choice, to either receive a scholarship or a discount at English Universities.
MACHI DORIZA
Machi is the Director of the Music Department at DES and also the representative of “Rockschool” and “Trinity College of London” in Greece.
She studied piano at the Skalkota Music School, where she received her degree with honours, under the supervision of Natalia Michailidou and “Ecole Normale de Musique de Paris”. She participates in concerts in Greece and abroad and also Masterclass seminars of famous solists.
Machi has been teaching at the National Music School for 20 years and also all age groups at DES Primary School.
ART NOTE is the exclusive representative of ROCKSCHOOL, the no1 Rock Examination Committee of Europe and examination centre of Trinity College of London.
The Creative Writing and Illustration Workshop provides children with a unique opportunity to explore the enchanting realm of fairy tales from a fresh perspective. Here, they step into the roles of writers and embark on a journey into a fictional world brimming with imagination, innovative ideas, and unexpected plot twists. This workshop encourages collaboration among participants, allowing them to collectively craft their very own distinctive project. In this engaging process, they unknowingly hone their linguistic intelligence. Within each fairy tale, a dedicated illustration section empowers every child to transfer their imaginative creations onto paper.
In conjunction with the Creative Writing and Illustration Workshop, we organize annual online courses for children residing in remote regions of our country. This initiative, driven by Miles and Soul, seeks to integrate these children into a broader student community and offer support to their local schools in various capacities. At the close of each school year, we proudly showcase two fairy tales. One is the collaborative work of our Workshop team, while the other is crafted by children from the border areas. The latter publication is generously sponsored by Mrs. Ioanna K. Martinou and is made available for sale with the purpose of strengthening the schools in these border regions. This project concludes with an unforgettable trip for the children to our school, culminating in a joyous celebration marked by heartfelt emotions.
Programme Managers
Ms. Mania Armeniliou, Educator, author of children’s books, founder and coordinator of the Miles and Soul programme.
Ms. Annie Riga, Educator, artist, illustrator
CHRISTINA GOVA is an English teacher at DES. She is dedicated
to ensuring that children have an enjoyable and productive learning experience. With a passion for teaching and a commitment to helping students succeed, she provides the best possible support for your child’s English education.
In the Language Lab, children will delve into the fascinating world of the English language and literature. They will focus on enhancing reading comprehension, mastering grammar and vocabulary, and developing strong writing skills. Rest assured, Ms. Christina promises to keep the lessons engaging and enjoyable!
Step into the world of our Language Lab, where the doors swing open wide to students of all levels. The advantages are plentiful, with our dedicated teacher guiding students through targeted studies within a set timeframe. Children can conquer lingering questions, elevate their proficiency, and sharpen their time-management skills while wrapping up their assignments. The process of solidifying and comprehending what’s been taught becomes a breeze under the watchful eye of our skilled teacher.
Let’s not forget, students of all primary school levels deserve to make the most of their free time, reaping the rewards of their educational journey!
PEPI KAROUBALI has been active in the field of education for over 20 years. She graduated from the School of Philosophy at Democritus University of Thrace, with a degree in History and Ethnology. She has taught middle and high school students for many years and has also been teaching Philosophy and Rhetoric to primary school students at DES and preparing participants for the Rhetoric Festival organized by HIRCS. She also participates annually in HIRCS’s teacher training programme. The goal of the workshop is the gradual learning of ancient Greek, the expansion of vocabulary through exploring linguistic roots, and the cultivation of public speaking through techniques and rhetorical games. Speech is a power that enables us to achieve our highest goals. Ancient studies enhance our linguistic richness and intellect. Through this public speaking and ancient studies club, students will improve their rhetorical
EVANGELIA KARVOUNA, is a German Language and Literature teacher, graduate of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. She has lived abroad and received a German education. In addition, she has a teacher’s degree from the Department of Primary Education of the University of Rhodes. At DES, she works as a Greek teacher and has been the Principal for the last three years. Recently, she completed her postgraduate studies in Educational Psychology. The German language lessons, levels A1-A2, are addressed to all students who want enhanced teaching, but also to students who would like intensive preparation of these levels regardless of the scheduled syllabus of the classes based on the European Framework of Reference for Language Proficiency.
JENNY WANG was born and raised in China. She graduated from the Central Radio and TV University of China and Beijing Foreign Languages University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature and a diploma in Teaching Chinese Language and Linguistics. With a university diploma in Business English, she worked as an interpreter and translator for a major shipbuilding company, translating between English and Chinese. Jenny has over 15 years of teaching experience.
TANIA DIMITROUKA began her career as a Spanish teacher in 2006.
She holds a degree from the Department of Spanish Language and
Literature at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.
Additionally, she completed a master’s degree in Latin American and Iberian Studies with a specialization in Translation and Linguistics, as well as Theory and Applications in the Spanish Language.
The objective of her course is to facilitate experiential learning of
Spanish for primary school children. This is achieved through
engaging and enjoyable activities tailored to their age group.
EFI KOUNTOURI was born and raised in Athens where she completed her studies in Italian Language & Literature. The Erasmus course she attended in Rome not only broadened her knowledge on the language but also helped her discover in depth the country’s culture: from art to history, from gastronomy to modern design, architecture and business aspects. She is also a certified examiner for the CELI diplomas, exams organised by the prestigious Università per stranieri di Perugia. Furthermore, she has worked as a freelance interpreter both for Greek firms and Italian entrepreneurs.
TATIANA KUTSKOVA graduated from the State University of Saint Petersburg in Russia and taught Russian at the University of Birmingham in England. With extensive experience teaching the language in Greece, she has written and published her own original Russian language learning book. Tatiana offers engaging lessons for all levels, from beginners to bilingual children, filled with laughter, fairy tale readings, and games in a vibrant and positive atmosphere!
NATALYA KONSTANTINOVA, a skilled fashion designer and seamstress, will enthusiastically and lovingly share her knowledge and creativity with the children. They will have the opportunity to learn the basic techniques of hand sewing, machine sewing, knitting, and embroidery. The goal is to acquire fundamental skills in sewing and knitting, to create masterpieces with their hands, to express themselves through this creative activity, and to enjoy their creations. Participation in this workshop encourages the development of imagination, the practice of patience, and is the most enjoyable and productive use of free time. During the workshop, children will make cute hair accessories, a fabric bracelet, a rainbow pom-pom bag, a seahorse toy, and a pencil case with a zip.
Class supervisor: EVAN CHINIS Evan studied mathematics in Samos and specialized in fluid dynamics at the University of Manchester.
STEM after-school class offers children the opportunity to explore the world of robotics, engineering and programming through hands-on activities using LEGO, such as LEGO WeDo 2.0 and LEGO SPIKE, and microcontrollers, such as BBC micro:bit and Arduino. This equipment is designed to make learning computer science and engineering fun and accessible for all students. In particular, students learn how to assemble fully programmable robots, vehicles and other objects that need to be programmed mostly in a visual programming language (block coding) in order to perform a task or solve a problem in a real-life scenario. These activities teach basic concepts in mechanics, automation and coding, while also promoting teamwork and communication. Students work together on various projects, ranging from beginner to advanced, allowing them to progressively build their knowledge and skills. This after-school class not only improves problem-solving skills and logical reasoning but also inspires a lasting interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
LEE NIKOLAIDIS — Coach Lee, in addition to his UK and USA academic credentials, is a fully qualified youth soccer coach from the England Football Association. He has extensive experience, especially in the USA, where he works every summer at top American summer camp Towanda as their Head of Soccer and Athletic & Tournament Director, and has coached championship winning teams and ambitious individual players
In our football club, Lee will be focusing on skills and drills, as well as making our young players aware of positional play, tactical awareness and good sportsmanship with team mates and opponents. In a fun and safe environment, the aim will be to help our children become more confident, and grow as they get to know modern day soccer.
The lessons are conducted in English.
Tennis is an excellent sport for kids because it promotes physical fitness, hand & eye coordination, social interaction, mental discipline, and a range of other valuable life skills. It’s a fun and versatile activity that can contribute to a child’s overall development and well-being.
Gymnastics for young children is a seamless extension of their natural playfulness. It embraces their everyday activities like rolling, running, jumping, and somersaults. Our approach makes learning a playful adventure, yielding fantastic results. We welcome both boys and girls, grouping them by age for once-a-week, hour-long sessions in our indoor gym equipped with safety mats.
ATHANASIOS BEKAS is a graduate of the European Taekwondo Union’s Training School, a C class taekwondo trainer, and holds a black belt 4th DAN WT. Athanasios has attended seminars regarding nutrition, pedagogical approach and first aid (Lifeguard Hellas), champion’s techniques and competitive WT.
His love for this sport began at the age of 8 and with persistence he soon became a championship level athlete with many Panhellenic and International medals. His experience as a trainer began in 2007. He had the opportunity to build strong foundations as he worked with renowned taekwondo coaches and later moved on to create the Taekwondo Athletic Club of Vari in 2014, of which he is head coach.
Athanasios has worked with children for many years, he is aware of a child’s needs. His training sessions, especially for younger ages, combine play and exercise in order to be sure that the child is having a good time while training. Respect and obedience but also pleasure are the key concepts of his lesson and these are achieved through the reward of good behavior and effort. Children are split in groups according to their age and training sessions take place once a week, for one hour in the school’s new indoor gymnasium which will be prepared with special mats and all the necessary equipment.
ANTHI CHATZIGIAKOUMI is a professional basketball player for the team of Proteas Voulas and was a basketball coach at Proteas Voulas Basketball Club Academies from 2017 until 2019. She was a NCAA Division I Student Athlete and earned a full-time scholarship from Florida Gulf Coast University in the United States of America from 2011- 2015. She was also a member of the Greek National Team from 2007- 2014.
Goal: Apart from creating a safe and competitive environment for the players, they will learn about the fundamentals of the sport, and how to cooperate and communicate with teammates on and off the court.
The lessons are conducted in English.
STAVROS KOUMERTAS is a highly experienced, professional archery coach who works with individuals ranging in age from 7 to 70, both on a personal level and within clubs. He is also a dedicated running athlete and has been a member of the National Team since 2008. Throughout his career, Stavros has earned numerous international distinctions and holds the title of National Champion and National Cup winner multiple times. Additionally, he boasts several National Records in archery.
Archery is an Olympic sport that offers a multitude of benefits to athletes. These include enhanced control of the mind, body, and soul, the ability to set and achieve goals, improved teamwork and sportsmanship, heightened focus, increased self confidence, and various other advantages. Drawing from his extensive 20-year experience, Stavros is confident in his ability to teach novices the art of shooting a bow and arrow, starting from the fundamentals and guiding them on a path to becoming champions!
GIANNIS ROUSIANOS is a graduate of the Department of Physical Education and Sports Science, specializing in Greek Traditional Dance (National and Kapodistrian University of Athens). He holds a master’s degree in “Dance Education” (Aristotle University of Thessaloniki) and is currently a postgraduate student at the Hellenic Open University, focusing on “Folk/Popular Culture and Modern Cultural Heritage.”
Engaging in traditional folk dance has multiple benefits, such as cultivating rhythm, balance, coordination, memory, self-esteem, cooperation, teamwork, and more. Additionally, it allows children to connect with our cultural heritage, customs, and traditions from all over Greece. Through the morphological teaching method, children not only learn the dances but also understand how they are created, enabling them to improvise.
I was born in Germany. My father was a mechanical engineer, and my mother an interpreter of languages. From a young age, I loved to learn! I finished school in Kastella and university in Thessaloniki and Germany, where I completed my thesis at the Department of Psychology at Otto Friedrich Universität Bamberg. I have worked in the field of education since 1989. During my career, I developed an intense activity in research activities, assignments, seminars and conferences in pedagogy and psychology with a specialization in emotional and multiple intelligences. DES is the result of this long and arduous journey. DES is the school where children love to be themselves and love to learn!
Regulations are important as they help a school establish rules and procedures and create standards of quality for learning and safety. Rules provide a sense of predictability and consistency for children, thereby promoting physical and emotional safety. Rules help guide actions toward desired results.