A nurturing start. A strong foundation.
A Warm and Supportive Beginning
Children are welcomed into a safe, caring, and engaging environment where they feel confident to explore, learn, and grow.
A strong emphasis is placed on creating a nurturing atmosphere, where each child is known, valued, and supported from the very beginning of their educational journey.
A Thoughtfully Designed Curriculum
Guided by the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), the programme supports development across seven key areas—from communication and language to physical, social, and emotional growth.
Through purposeful, play-based experiences, children develop curiosity, confidence, and a lasting love of learning.
Learning Through Play
Learning is active, engaging, and meaningful. Through play, children begin to understand themselves, their peers, and the world around them.
Careful observation and thoughtful guidance ensure that each child’s development is supported in a personalised way.
A Diverse and Inclusive Community
A culturally diverse environment creates a rich and inclusive learning experience.
Children grow within a community built on respect, connection, and a strong sense of belonging.
An Environment Designed for Growth
Classrooms and outdoor spaces are thoughtfully designed to encourage exploration, independence, and creativity.
These environments support both wellbeing and early development.
A Partnership with Families
Strong relationships between school and home are central to each child’s development, supporting a shared approach to learning and wellbeing.
Early Years at Chartwell
Led by Antonina Viksenko
Welcome to Via Azul, our preschool campus at Chartwell International School.
As Head of School, and as an educator with over 15 years of experience across Chile and Europe, I have come to believe that early childhood is not simply the beginning of education—it is the foundation of who we become.
My journey through teaching in preschool, primary, and secondary settings ultimately led me back to where it all starts. It is in these early years that children begin to ask their first questions about the world, build their first friendships, and discover their own voice. This is why early childhood education holds such a special place in my heart.
At Via Azul, we have created a small, nurturing environment for children aged 2 to 5, where each child is truly seen and supported. With just over 60 students and surrounded by green outdoor spaces, our campus is designed to feel like a home away from home—safe, joyful, and full of possibility.
We believe that children learn best when they are curious, engaged, and given the freedom to explore. Our approach combines play-based and inquiry-led learning with thoughtful structure, allowing children to investigate ideas, experiment with materials, and develop confidence in their thinking. Our teachers are there to guide, inspire, and gently challenge, helping each child grow at their own pace.
At the same time, we place great importance on developing the whole child. Through our social-emotional learning approach, we support children in understanding their feelings, building empathy, and learning how to connect with others. Because ultimately, if we want to change the world, we begin by raising a generation that is kind, aware, and compassionate.
We also believe strongly in the power of community. Education is a shared journey, and we work closely with families to create an international environment that feels like an extended family—supportive, inclusive, and connected.
It is a privilege to be part of these early years, and to help shape a lifelong love of learning in every child who walks through our doors.
Warmest regards,
Antonina Viksenko
Head of School, Via Azul Campus