The PTA Committee would like to extend its sincere appreciation to all of the parent and student volunteers who helped make this our largest and most successful International Week yet! On Monday morning, volunteer class bakers provided delicious cakes to our teachers and support staff at Dab and Lim in celebration of Teacher’s Day. Then, our Country Representatives and their teams arrived at TBS Tuesday evening to transform the gym into an international festival filled with the sights, sounds, and tastes of thirty-five countries.

On Wednesday morning, Primary students were delighted to receive their “passports” and take off on a global adventure. The International Fair is one of the highlights of the school year, and preliminary talks are already happening to make it an even bigger, better event next year. Finally, on Friday, students on each campus participated in International Dress Day. It was wonderful to see all of the students proudly represent their national costumes, sports kits, and colours.

To round out the international celebration, this week’s Getting to Know You Spotlight is on our Spanish Country Representative, Montse! If you are a volunteer who wishes to be featured in one of our upcoming Spotlights, please contact us via Facebook.

We hope all of you enjoy the upcoming break and return healthy, refreshed, and recharged.

The PTA Committee

Getting to know Montse

Where would you call home?

Home for me is wherever my family is , so currently  Warsaw is home for us, but we are originally from the beautiful land of Málaga ( Andalucia ) at the very South of Spain.

If you are interested to know more about our wonderful city or maybe planning to go on a holidays, do not hesitate to reach out to me! I can share some  good local tips…alternatively you can visit this page: http://www.malagaturismo.com/en

What languages can you speak?

My native language is Spanish and I am also fluent in English and French. I speak some German and understand Portuguese and Italian. I can also speak very basic Polish but try my best to improve every day!

What brings you to Warsaw and what was your journey to get here?

We came to Warsaw 3 years ago because my husband is on a project for a European agency. I am also a full time working mother. I work for Cisco ( American IT company ) and was lucky enough to also be able to be relocate here to support my husband while he pursues his career. It is our first international destination as a family.

Who have you got at school here?

I have my Little Universe at school:  My son, Antonio, is 14 years old and in Year 10, and my daughter, Eva, is 8 years old and in Year 4.

Any other children?

I would love to but I guess it is too late now. 

Any pets?

We have a little, adorable, tiny, bichon maltese named Bono (like the U2 singer ). He is actually Polish but totally fluent in Spanish too. 

How did you get involved in the PTA?

 I attended the kick-off meeting held at the beginning of our first year here.  After hearing everything shared there, I couldn’t resist volunteering to help with any activity… so whenever I am free, I am happy to help!!

What do you do with the PTA?

I’m the Spain Country Rep and take the lead for the Spanish Stand at the International Fair. I also volunteer at open days, coffee mornings, school fairs, Christmas fairs, and sports days. And whenever there is a call out for a bake sale, we always have fun at home adding our 2 cents there, too.

Best thing about volunteering with the PTA?

Getting more connected with the school community, parents, teachers, etc., as well as  getting to know other amazing people who really care about making a difference and giving the kids the best ever school experience.

What would you say to somebody thinking about volunteering for the PTA?

Come and join us!! It is FUN!!  No doubts!!

What’s your favourite thing to do with your family in Warsaw?

We are REALLY in LOVE with Warsaw and very grateful for the opportunity to be living in this amazing city! So when the weather allows it, we spend most of our  time outside exploring and discovering incredible places; we are really fascinated with the nature and beauty of this country in general!! We only have summer in Málaga the entire year so having the opportunity to enjoy the 4 seasons is priceless. We also try our best to  get involved with the Polish traditions and culture, and to enjoy time with all the great friends we are blessed to have met here. Having good friends when you are living abroad is a big treasure and we appreciate that very much!! We love our international friendmily here!!

Can you tell us a joke?

This is very frustrating because I can never retain a joke off the top of my head (I am a bit like Dory the fish ...LOL).  So, this one is coming from my friend, Vlad (ex TBS student now living in London)

What is the name of the Spanish guy who lost his car ?

CAR-LOS (T)

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