About Us
Welcome to
CRAIGHOUSE SCHOOL
We are a distinguished bilingual, co-educational institution, blending the rich heritage of both Chilean and British traditions. For over six decades, we have been committed to providing educational and formative excellence to generations of pupils.
Our focus is on achieving high academic standards while nurturing individuals who are globally minded, tolerant and deeply aware of their social and environmental responsibilities.
For over 30 years, Craighouse School has been part of the IB World, continuously refining and strengthening its programmes to become the leading IB school in Chile—an achievement we are deeply proud of.
“Tempora mutantur, nos et mutamur in illis:
Times change and we change with them”.
Mrs Joan Darling
A GLIMPSE INTO OUR HISTORY
On 16th March 1959, Craighouse School opened its doors, founded by the couple Charles T. Darling and Joan Gibson-Craig-Carmichael, Mrs Darling. The school's name, a blend of Mrs Darling's surname "Craig" and the word "house," symbolises one of our core pillars: Family.
From the very beginning, Craighouse embodied the essence of a traditional British school. The name itself is rooted in Mrs Darling’s Scottish heritage, while our badge and motto, ‘Vive Deo et Vives,’ are drawn from the Gibson-Craig-Carmichael family crest. We introduced a formal uniform, a House system, a school prayer, assemblies and embraced the quintessential sports of hockey and rugby.
Today, as we celebrate more than six decades educating young minds, we honour our rich legacy. In 2021, our Head of School Patrick Lyons took the helm, marking the dawn of a new era—one that cherishes the values of our founders while confidently embracing the future.
Accreditations and Memberships: Committed to Excellence
At Craighouse School, our accreditations and memberships reflect the ongoing commitment to educational excellence, continuous improvement and the holistic development of our pupils.
International Baccalaureate (IB) World School – IB Continuum School
Craighouse School is authorised by the International Baccalaureate to offer all three programmes within the IB continuum: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). This framework promotes a rigorous, international and well-rounded education, centred on inquiry, critical thinking and the development of students who are engaged with the world around their communities and the wider world.
Association of British Schools in Chile – ABSCH
Craighouse School is part of this network of bilingual schools with shared educational aims. The Association promotes good pedagogical practice, student collaboration through academic, cultural and sporting activities, and the ongoing profesional development of its staff.
Latin American Heads Conference –
LAHC
LAHC is a network of schools across Latin America that share best practices in British and international education. Its purpose is to foster collaboration, profesional learning, the exchange of experiences and the continuous improvement of its member institutions.
Round Square
Craighouse School is part of this international network of schools committed to experiential education and character development. Its approach is inspired by Round Square’s six IDEALS: Internationalism, Democracy, Environmentalism, Adventure, Leadership and Service.
Google for Education Reference Institution
This recognition distinguishes educational institutions that integrate Google for Education tools deeply and strategically into their teaching, learning, collaboration and management processes. It also recognises the school’s commitment to educational innovation and the ongoing professional development of its educators.
CHARLES T. DARLING FOUNDATION
The Charles T. Darling Educational Foundation was created in 1989 to perpetuate the values and traditions that inspired the Darling family in the creation and development of Craighouse School.
The sole purpose of this non profit organisation is to contribute to the realisation of Craighouse School Educational Project, therefore benefiting the school's pupils, families and all the community.
Board
Edgar Witt Gebert
PResident
María Isabel Sánchez Cordero
Secretary
Carlos Baudrand Saavedra
Treasurer
María José Cohen Aguiló
Director
Juan Pablo Garafulic Litvak
Director
René Jeria Concha
Director
Pilar Zabala Meruane
Director
Pedro Becker Rencoret
Director
Anthony Fyfe García
Director
SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM (SLT)
The Senior Leadership Team is responsible for guiding and overseeing Craighouse School.
Led by the Head of School, it consists of nine highly experienced professionals, representing five nationalities. This diverse team is deeply committed to the Craighouse School Educational Project, ensuring excellence in every aspect of our institution.
Patrick Lyons
Head of School
Aymé Visconti
Academic Director
María Paz Saumann
Directora del Área Formativa
Thomas Hughes
Head of Primary Section
Pablo Salvador
Head of Middle Section
Mark Cross
Head of Senior Section
Jorge Cabargas
Bursar
María José Ruiz
Human Resources Director
Constanza Capdevila
Director of Communications
María Isabel Sánchez
Compliance and Legal Affairs
EDUCATIONAL PROJECT
AND INSTITUTIONAL POLICIES
To learn more about Craighouse School's Educational Project and Institutional Policies, click here: