ELA Connect Winter 2024 (Vol.1 Issue 2)

ELA CONNECT
B r i n g i n g Y o u t h e B e s t f r o m O u r C o m m u n i t y
V O L . 1 I S S U E 2
W I N T E R 2 0 2 4 / 2 0 2 5
I N S I D E
STEM
A look back at our
hugely successful STEM
Week 2024.
Alumni
Two of our alumni
recall how their journey
to success started at
ELA Basel.
A bright
future
School Governors
discuss ELA Basel’s
enduring appeal and
bright future.
Reception students Bernardo and Francisca, little brother Jose with mum Margarida and dad João enjoying the Winter Fayre. INSET:
Santa arrives at Early Years for the Infant and Toddler Festive Bake Off.
A Season of Celebration and
Togetherness for our Community
IN the true spirit of the season, ELA Basel hosted
a series of heartwarming events in the run-up to
the holidays, bringing together our Early Years
and Primary Years communities for festive
celebrations filled with joy, laughter, and
togetherness.
The festivities began at our Early Years campus with
a fun Infant and Toddler Festive Bake Off
competition! With 23 entries from parents and staff,
there was a huge variety of cakes and biscuits to
sample. The winner was Olya Pyshik with Chiara
Ronchi taking 2nd place. Parents and children
enjoyed a delightful morning of seasonal activities,
including decorating festive cookies and savouring
delicious treats lovingly prepared by our dedicated
parents and staff. A highlight of the event was a
special visit from Santa Claus, who was on hand for
memorable photos with the little ones. The cheerful
atmosphere and community spirit made for a
magical experience,
thanks to the hard work of our incredible Early Years
team.
Next, the holiday cheer carried over to our Primary
Years campus for the annual Winter Fayre, our largest
and most successful to date. The school courtyard was
transformed into a festive wonder adorned with fairy
lights and brimming with festive cheer. Doors were
open to families from the wider Basel community,
creating a bustling and inclusive festive gathering.
The Fayre featured an array of handmade craft stalls
selling jewellery, candles, cutting boards, woven goods,
festive decorations and much more. There was also a
tempting selection of baked goods and seasonal treats,
such as free hot chocolate for the children and
Glühwein for the adults. Food options included a pizza
truck and a traditional Wurst stall.
Among the many highlights of the day was a series of
festive performances led by our talented music students
under the guidance of the wonderful Ms. Dowden.
continued on page 12

ELA BASEL’S HEART & VISION
School Governors reflect on our school’s enduring appeal and why the future is bright
ELA Basel’s Board President Patrik von Arx and Vice President Astrid Buys.
AS ELA Basel continues to grow and
evolve, Board President Patrik von Arx and
Vice President Astrid Buys sat down to
discuss what makes the school so special
and why they are dedicated to its
governance.
Their shared passion for education and
unique perspectives—Patrik as a longstanding
parent and Astrid as a newer
addition to the ELA Basel family—shed light
on the school’s enduring appeal and vision for
the future.
For Patrik, the decision to serve on the Board
stems from his family’s deep connection to
ELA Basel. “Both my children started at ELA
Basel as infants, and Linda is now in her final
year. Over the past 14 years, we’ve come to
trust not just the quality of education but also
the school’s values, its sense of community,
and the friendships it fosters—both among
students and parents,” he said. His gratitude
for the positive experiences his family has
had inspired him to give back. “I wanted to
contribute to the school that has given my
family so much, and my friendly relationship
with many ELA Basel staff members makes
this commitment even more meaningful.”
Astrid, a New Zealander who has lived in
Basel since 2017, joined the Board with a
sense of purpose. “I was approached to
join, and I felt strongly motivated to help
ELA Basel succeed,” she explained.
With her children enrolled in Early Years,
she added, “I saw this as an opportunity to
contribute my broad business knowledge
to support the school strategically.”
“Everyone’s voice
matters, whether
you’re a parent, a
staff member, or
part of the Board”
Both Patrik and Astrid emphasised ELA
Basel’s warmth, inclusivity, and
commitment to excellence as defining
features. Patrik highlighted the school’s
roots as a Swiss Verein, which ensures
parents are involved in shaping the
school’s development.
“The collaborative spirit that started with
ELA Basel’s founding is still alive today.
Everyone’s voice matters, whether you’re a
parent, a staff member, or part of the
Board,” he said.
Astrid reflected on her decision to choose
ELA Basel for her family. “When I was
pregnant, I began researching daycares
and visited many. I hadn’t initially
considered an international daycare, but
ELA Basel stood out.
The care and environment it offered far
outweighed considerations like language
or distance,” she shared. Now that the
daycare is bilingual, she appreciates that
her children are also being introduced to
German at an early age. “The warmth,
motivation, and commitment of the staff
make all the difference. I truly believe ELA
Basel is the best daycare in Basel.”
The Board of ELA Basel plays a critical role
in guiding the school’s strategic direction
and ensuring effective governance. As a
Swiss Verein, ELA’ Basel's structure allows
parents to have an active role in shaping
its development. The Board’s
responsibilities include appointing the
Director, reviewing and approving the
annual financial budget, and working on
initiatives like the school’s COBIS
accreditation and brand strategy. This
collaborative approach ensures that the
school continues to thrive while staying
true to its mission and values.
The diverse makeup of the Board, which
includes parents and non-parents with a
range of professional expertise, is a key
strength. Members bring unique
perspectives to tackle challenges and
identify opportunities, all with the shared
goal of supporting the school’s growth and
excellence.
Looking to the future, the Board is
committed to maintaining ELA Basel’s
reputation as a leading international
school. By prioritising inclusivity, highquality
education, and a nurturing
environment, ELA Basel is well-positioned
to prepare students for success in an everchanging
world. Recent projects, such as
the bilingual daycare program and
enhanced brand strategy, reflect the
school’s adaptability and focus on
continuous improvement.
With its strong governance and dedicated
community, ELA Basel remains a place
where children, families, and staff can
flourish—a vision the Board is proud to
champion.
2 ELA Connect

ELA CONNECT
PRIMARY
W I N T E R 2 0 2 4 / 2 0 2 5
ELA BASEL SHINES AT
BASLER STADTLAUF
ELA Basel students, parents, and staff came together in high
spirits to participate in the annual Basler Stadtlauf recently; a
beloved running event that weaves through the picturesque
streets of Basel.
The event, a highlight of the city’s festive calendar, sees thousands of
runners of all ages competing in various races against the stunning
backdrop of the historic Old Town, illuminated with Christmas lights.
The day began on a warm note as the ELA Basel community gathered
at school to enjoy hot drinks and delicious treats, generously organised
by the Friends of ELA (FELA) parents association. Spirits were high as
participants and supporters made their way to Münsterplatz, where the
cheering section added energy and enthusiasm to the races.
A special mention goes to the members of ELA Basel’s Running Club,
one of our popular Enrichment Programmes, who were more than ready
to take on the Stadtlauf’s challenges. Their dedication to training truly
paid off, and they made us all proud with their impressive
performances.
Thanks to the outstanding organisation of Emma Carragher and the
support of staff and volunteers, the event was a resounding success for
ELA Basel. It was a day to celebrate not only athletic achievements but
also the strength and camaraderie of our wonderful school community.
Just some of our athletes who took
part in the Basler Stadtlauf 2024.
WHY OUR FAMILIES
CHOOSE ELA BASEL
Our kids have truly thrived at ELA
Basel. The curriculum, which
challenges and engages them,
combined with the school's emphasis
on fostering critical thinking,
creativity, and a genuine love of
learning, has led to significant growth
in their academic performance. We've
watched them develop essential skills
in problem-solving, collaboration, and
independence, which are preparing
them for the future.
Teachers and staff are genuinely
invested in their success and wellbeing,
making the school feel like a
second home. This caring community
has been instrumental in helping our
children flourish both in and out of the
classroom.
Paolo & Martina
Click for more testimonials
ELA Connect
3

IMAGINATIONS SPARKED
DURING OUR
STEM WEEK
ELA Basel’s STEM Week 2024 was an unforgettable celebration of
Science,Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
Taking place in November, the week showcased the school’s
commitment to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and hands-on
learning. From interactive experiments to engineering challenges,
students of all ages embraced the opportunity to explore the wonders
of STEM education.
The excitement kicked off with a range of engaging activities,
including Glow Labs colour experiments, pyramid building, 3D design,
and boat-building. The school buzzed with enthusiasm as students
eagerly delved into these challenges, laying the foundation for a week
full of discovery and innovation.
On Day 2, we welcomed Young Engineers Basel for an inspiring
workshop focused on engineering. Students collaborated to design,
build, and test their own machines, honing their problem-solving and
teamwork skills. The hands-on experience brought engineering
concepts to life, leaving students motivated and inspired.
The highlight of the week was undoubtedly Family STEM Night. With
over 80 families in attendance, the event transformed the school into a
hub of learning and collaboration. Families worked together to tackle
three exciting STEM challenges, earning prizes along the way and
enjoying refreshments in a lively, community-focused atmosphere.
Science Coordinator and STEM Coach Leia Ford delivered an inspiring
presentation about the importance of STEM in education and giving a
greater insight into what STEM learning looks like at ELA Basel,
sparking curiosity and enthusiasm among parents and students alike.
Above: Students and parents enjoyed STEM challenges and
experiments. Left: Science Coordinator and STEM Coach Leia
Ford speaks to parents about the importance of STEM in
education.
The week continued with more innovative projects. Reception students
showcased their budding engineering skills in a straw tower challenge,
while Year 6 students designed and crafted miniature skateboards. Other
activities included building intricate marble mazes, designing tabletop
mini-golf courses, and conducting experiments in the Glow Lab. The
variety of projects highlighted the students' creativity and teamwork,
underscoring the collaborative spirit of STEM learning.
A special thanks goes to Leia Ford for her dedication and hard work in
organising the week’s events, as well as the ELA Basel staff for their
invaluable support. STEM Week 2024 not only provided students with an
enriching educational experience but also brought the entire ELA Basel
community together in celebration of innovation and discovery.
Click on the button to learn more about the importance of STEM in
education.
4 ELA Connect

ELA CONNECT
PRIMARY HIGHLIGHTS
W I N T E R 2 0 2 4 / 2 0 2 5

The stage is set for
new theatre school
SOON after its launch, the ELA Basel Theatre School captured
the school community’s imagination, with places filling up
within days.
This exciting new programme, which will start in January 2025, is
designed to nurture young talent in the performing arts, and offers
weekly Saturday morning classes for children aged 4-8 and 9-12.
Open to both ELA Basel students and children from the wider
community, it has quickly become one of our most sought-after
programmes.
Led by Tina Corrigan, an experienced educator with a lifelong
passion for the performing arts, the theatre school delivers a
comprehensive experience in acting, singing, and dancing. Tina, who
has directed numerous school productions during her 20-year
teaching career, says the programme is the realisation of a longheld
dream.
“My inspiration comes from my own childhood experiences in local
theatre groups that welcomed everyone,” Tina explained. “It wasn’t
about natural talent or experience but about enthusiasm and
teamwork. I’m thrilled to bring that inclusive ethos to ELA Basel
Theatre School.”
The curriculum goes beyond teaching performance skills, aiming to
build confidence, foster teamwork, and promote empathy in a
supportive and inclusive environment.
ELA Basel Theatre
School’s Tina Corrigan.
Classes are conducted in English, making the programme an ideal
space for children who are new to the language to develop spoken
English skills while expressing their creativity.
The school offers a variety of genres, ensuring every child finds a
chance to shine. “Whether they’re performing a monologue, learning
choreography, or singing as part of a group, the focus is on
encouraging creativity and self-expression,” Tina added.
With overwhelming interest already demonstrating its value, the ELA
Basel Theatre School is off to an inspiring start. Tina remains
committed to evolving the programme based on feedback from
parents and students, ensuring it continues to meet the community’s
needs.
Theatre enthusiasts are encouraged to keep an eye out for future
openings to join this exciting venture.
6 ELA Connect

SET UP FOR SUCCESS
ELA Basel alumni Cilia and Jacqueline reflect on their journey to success
TWO of our ELA Basel alumni, Cilia and
Jacqueline, recently visited the school to
share their experiences and reflect on
how their time at ELA Basel influenced
their journey.
The former students reminisced about their
fondest memories, favourite teachers, and
future aspirations.
Jacqueline (17), who joined ELA Basel at the
age of three and stayed for nine years,
struggled to pinpoint just one cherished
memory. “There are so many, but one that
stands out is when we made ‘You Are a
Wonder’ posters after reading Wonder in
English class. We wrote something special
about each other on everyone’s poster. Mine
is still on my wall, and it fills my heart with joy
whenever I read it,” she recalled.
Cilia (17), who joined ELA Basel after moving
back to Switzerland in the middle of Year 1
and stayed until Year 7, fondly remembers her
graduation day. “Seeing all my teachers from
over the years and celebrating with my peers
was incredibly special. I loved hearing the
speeches and reflecting on all we had
achieved. It was a proud moment for
everyone,” she shared.
Both students agreed that Ollie Paget, their
Year 6 and Year 7 teacher, left a lasting
impression. Jacqueline praised him for
pushing her to achieve her full potential while
teaching her valuable life skills like resilience
and confidence. “He always knew how to
make me laugh, no matter what kind of day I
was having,” she added.
Cilia and Jacqueline visit ELA Basel and recall some of their fondest memories.
The alumni credited ELA Basel’s supportive
and engaging approach to education for
their smooth transition to secondary
school. Jacqueline noted, “Even in a public
Swiss school, I was ahead in all my classes
—even German!” Cilia added, “We had
already covered so much at ELA Basel that
I found it easy to keep up.
“I’m just seeing where life takes me,” she
said with a smile.
Both alumni agree that their time at ELA
Basel provided a solid foundation for their
academic and personal growth, leaving
them with cherished memories and the
confidence to pursue their dreams.
Jacqueline’s early days playing with her
friends at ELA Basel.
Cilia echoed similar sentiments, saying, “His
teaching methods inspired me to try my best,
and he always found a way to make learning
enjoyable while keeping us focused.”
“Even in a public
Swiss school, I was
ahead in all my
classes—even
German!” Cilia
The only adjustment was learning how to
study for exams.”
Looking ahead, Jacqueline aspires to study
at Oxbridge or another UK university and
envisions a leadership role in diplomacy or
international relations. Meanwhile, Cilia is
exploring interests in languages and
forensic medicine.
Jacqueline (left) and Cilia (right) enjoying
Forest Day.
ELA Connect
7

ENRICHING VARIETY FOR 2025
Something for everyone in
exciting new programme
ELA Basel is proud to announce a recordbreaking
lineup of 30 structured
Enrichment Programmes for 2025, offering
a dynamic mix of activities designed to
inspire, educate, and excite.
Starting in January, these programmes are
open not only to ELA Basel students, but also
to children from the wider community,
providing an excellent opportunity for all
students to join in the fun.
The Enrichment Programme includes an
impressive variety of options, from art, music,
and dance to woodwork, coding, fitness, and
Science clubs. Each activity is crafted to
help students explore their interests, uncover
hidden talents, and deepen their knowledge
in areas beyond the traditional curriculum.
Run by ELA Basel’s dedicated classroom
teachers, the activities are as diverse as they
are enriching; ensuring there is something for
every child.
Activities take place Monday to Thursday
from 15:30 and typically last an hour,
although some clubs extend longer,
depending on the activity.
The semester-based structure ensures that
students enjoy a fresh and exciting mix of
offerings, including sports, STEM, crafts, and
music each term.
Participation in these programmes offers a
multitude of benefits, helping students build
confidence, improve problem-solving skills,
and foster creativity. The hands-on,
collaborative nature of the activities also
enhances social skills, teamwork, and
resilience, further supporting students’
overall development.
To learn more about the specific
programmes on offer, ELA Basel invites you
to watch the explainer videos profiling some
of the exciting activities available this year.
Whether your child dreams of painting
masterpieces, designing their own games, or
learning a new language, ELA Basel’s
Enrichment Programme provides the perfect
platform to ignite their passions.
Students enjoying Faserspinne (Crochet
Club) and Woodwork Club.
8 ELA Connect

ELA CONNECT
KITA
W I N T E R 2 0 2 4 / 2 0 2 5
BEING PREPARED FOR A
SUCCESSFUL
TRANSITION
THE recent ‘Transition to Reception Information and Art Activity’
event was a wonderful opportunity for parents of preschoolers
at our Early Years Campus to learn more about the exciting
journey into our Primary School.
The event began with a 30-minute presentation and Q&A session for
parents, accompanied by coffee, offering a relaxed setting to ask
questions and understand key aspects of the Reception year. Topics
covered included routines, curriculum highlights, and the diverse
enrichment programmes offered.
Our Reception programme focuses on creating a caring and
nurturing environment where children feel happy, secure, and
confident. Parents were introduced to the ‘home-like’ classrooms and
the experienced teachers and assistants who ensure every child
progresses and achieves milestones. The session also highlighted the
importance of collaborative, play-based learning, as well as
opportunities for children to explore different countries and cultures,
reflecting the 30+ nationalities within our community.
Following the presentation, families enjoyed a festive art and music
activity together. This interactive session allowed parents to
experience the creativity and collaboration that form the foundation
of our curriculum. Children also had the chance to visit other year
groups in the lower end of the Primary School, further easing the
transition process.
The event showcased how our Reception curriculum supports
children’s growth in areas like Physical Development, Personal,
Social, and Emotional Development, Communication and Language,
as well as specific areas such as Literacy, Mathematics, and
Understanding of the World. Parents also learned about childinitiated
learning, outdoor activities, and how German is taught in
Reception.
Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with parents expressing
appreciation for the inclusion of both information and hands-on
experiences. The event exemplified our commitment to nurturing,
inspiring, and challenging every child while maintaining strong
partnerships with parents.
Reception teacher Kirstie speaks to our preschool parents and
answers questions about the transition to Reception.
ELA Connect
9

A SEASONAL
HIGHLIGHT
FOR OUR
PARENTS
OUR Preschool children from the Grey, Violet, Pink, and Turquoise
classes delighted audiences with their enchanting show,
‘Snowman at Sunset’ recently.
Performed on both the 17th and 18th of December to accommodate all
families, the event was a heartwarming celebration of creativity,
teamwork, and festive cheer.
The story followed the children’s joy of playing in the snow and building
snowmen. When a sunny day left just enough snow for one snowman,
the children worked together to create it, gazing proudly at their
snowy friend in the beautiful sunset.
The performance featured nine delightful songs, including seven in
English and two in German, showcasing the children’s developing
confidence and language skills. The stage was brought to life with
vibrant costumes and decorations crafted by the children and staff,
adding a personal and creative touch to the production.
Led by Marta, the show’s organiser, and supported by the entire
Preschool team, the event highlighted the strong collaboration
between staff and children. Each child played a role in making the
performance special, from singing and dancing to helping create the
props.
Parents and families left with smiles and warm hearts, proud of their
little stars for their hard work and enthusiasm. ‘Snowman at Sunset’
was a perfect way to celebrate the season, leaving everyone excited
for more wonderful moments to come in the new year.
Our Preschool children, led by Marta, perform their festive show
‘Snowman at Sunset’.
10 ELA Connect

ELA CONNECT
KITA HIGHLIGHTS
W I N T E R 2 0 2 4 / 2 0 2 5

ELA CONNECT
ROUND-UP
W I N T E R 2 0 2 4 / 2 0 2 5
Students explore the science of the heart
Our events warmly welcome both
ELA Basel families and families from
the wider community.
18th January 2025
Early Years / Kita and Primary
School Open Morning.
21st January 2025
Early Years / Kita Coffee
Morning
23rd January 2025
Inclusion Information Event
26th March 2025
Music Information Event
3rd April 2025
Maths Information Event
4th April 2025
Kinder Flöhmarkt/Children’s
Flea Market
Science lessons at ELA Basel took an
unforgettable turn as students dissected
pig hearts under the expert guidance of
practising surgeon Professor Dr. Ulrich
Franke.
Dr. Franke led the dissection, explaining
each step and answering the students'
many questions. Through this hands-on
experience, they gained a deeper
understanding of the heart's structure and
function, witnessing its intricate details up
close.
The session was both fascinating and
inspiring, sparking curiosity and bringing
learning to life in a truly memorable way.
Experiences like these highlight the power
of interactive, real-world education!
A surprise visit
On 6th December, ELA Basel celebrated St
Nicholas Day, a beloved tradition in many
countries where Saint Nicholas visits to bring joy
and treats to children.
This year, we were delighted to welcome Saint
Nicholas himself to our school. He brought tasty
treats for the children and took the time to visit
every class, from Reception to Year 7, spreading
festive cheer and creating unforgettable
memories.
The excitement throughout the building was truly
palpable, and we are deeply grateful to Saint
Nicholas for his annual visit, making this season
even more special for everyone.
Practising surgeon Professor Dr. Ulrich Franke guides
students through the dissection of a pig’s heart.
A Season of Celebration
and Togetherness for
our Community
continued from the front page
The event included group carol singing,
followed by individual student performances in
the school’s prestigious Telemach Room, the
most ornate room in the school, that provided
the perfect stage for proud parents to watch
their children shine.
Santa made another cheerful appearance,
delighting young visitors with photo
opportunities and spreading holiday magic.
Both events were a resounding success,
showcasing the strength and warmth of the ELA
Basel community. As we reflect on these joyous
occasions, we extend our heartfelt thanks to
everyone who participated and contributed to
making these celebrations truly unforgettable.
12 ELA Connect