How a Greek School Is Redefining Bilingual IB Education

Jan de Vries · 2026-11-02

What if a school didn't just teach subjects but celebrated every kind of intelligence? That's the question driving DES Interactive European School, a bilingual English-Greek institution on the Athenian Riviera. Recently named Best Bilingual IB School 2026 – Attica at the Hellenic Business Awards, DES is shaking up education with a blend of the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Howard Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences. ### A Unique Blend of IB and Multiple Intelligences DES is the first bilingual school in Greece to combine the rigorous IB programmes with Gardner's theory, which argues that people have multiple autonomous intelligences that interact to solve problems. This approach creates an environment where every student is seen as distinct and learning becomes a joy. Currently authorized for the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP), with the Diploma Programme on the horizon, DES offers inquiry-led, student-centered learning grounded in Greek context and international practice. ### Inside the Campuses: Where Learning Comes Alive Spread across four complexes in the southern suburbs, DES serves about 450 students and 150 staff. Since opening its first location in 2004, the school has viewed all subjects as primary—whether sport, music, art, literature, languages, or math. The campuses are more than just classrooms; they're integral to the curriculum. Children learn across gardens and outdoor spaces, interact with animals, and connect knowledge with the natural world. Technology, robotics, creativity, and social responsibility are woven into the learning ecology. ### The Heart of DES: Values That Go Beyond Grades Teaching at DES is guided by core values: intellectual curiosity, inclusion, responsibility, international-mindedness, and genuine care for each child. As founder and CEO Dr. Billie Konstantara puts it: > "Our goal is not merely to prepare students for examinations. It is to develop knowledgeable, ethical, and emotionally secure young people who can think independently, collaborate across cultures, and contribute meaningfully to society." This philosophy is reflected in small class sizes and strong relationships—DES functions as an international microschool, so teachers truly know their students and can respond to their needs quickly. High but achievable expectations are paired with close observation and differentiated teaching. ### Why This Matters for the Future of Education In a world where standardized testing often dominates, DES stands out by nurturing the whole child. The school's recognition is a testament to its innovative approach. For families in the US and beyond, it's a reminder that education can be both serious and fun—where every child's unique mix of intelligences is celebrated. ### Key Takeaways: - DES is the first bilingual school in Greece to merge IB with Multiple Intelligences theory. - It serves nearly 30 nationalities across nursery to middle school. - Campuses are designed as learning landscapes, not just buildings. - Values-driven education focuses on ethical, emotionally secure, and independent thinkers. As Dr. Konstantara says, "Innovation begins with a simple question: does this improve the way a child learns, belongs, or understands the world?" At DES, the answer is a resounding yes.