Ecuador, Cuenca
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CEDEI's English Program serves over 1,000 students each 10-week cycle with a staff of 45–50 teachers. It offers classes for all ages and levels, including a Young Learners' Program (ages 8–11). The Teen/Adult track provides levels A1–C1 and Cambridge B2 First exam preparation, with a final course to prepare for the Cambridge exam. The program aims for CEFR level C1 and uses a structured curriculum with textbooks and a virtual learning platform for face-to-face or online instruction. The main center is housed in a heritage building in downtown Cuenca, with a new location on Isabel La Católica and Carlos V streets opened in December 2023.
CEDEI provides Spanish classes for teachers at three levels—beginner, intermediate, and advanced—with placement testing and twice-weekly sessions. Dance classes are offered on Fridays. Teachers receive free Spanish and free dance classes as part of CEDEI's staff perks; additional professional development is offered.
CEDEI conducts cultural exchanges as part of its professional development workshops each 10-week cycle. The Living in Cuenca resources describe Cuenca's food, markets, and cultural outings, including walking tours in Cajas National Park. These cultural activities support immersion alongside language training.
CEDEI provides social activities for staff, including Friday dance classes and free Spanish lessons, which support social interaction and cultural immersion. The Living in Cuenca resources describe local outings and social information about food and markets. The program also offers professional development workshops that foster collaboration among staff.
CEDEI organizes professional development workshops each 10-week cycle, covering classroom management, educational techniques, and cultural exchanges. The organization supports staff with visa assistance, orientation sessions, and resources for settling in Cuenca, including help finding accommodation.
CEDEI provides health insurance on request for staff and offers visa assistance and housing support on arrival, including orientation sessions. The Living in Cuenca resources include information about local food, markets, and outdoor activities such as walking tours in Cajas National Park. Staff can take free Spanish and dance classes to support wellbeing and cultural integration.
Founded in 1992, CEDEI School is a renowned center for intercultural understanding located in the heart of Cuenca, Ecuador. Unlike traditional K-12 institutions, CEDEI offers highly flexible, cycle-based programs specializing in language proficiency and cultural immersion for primary, secondary, and adult learners. The school follows a communicative methodology taught exclusively by international educators, ensuring students develop practical skills from day one. For those unfamiliar with the region, CEDEI is an ideal entry point into South American culture, offering supportive homestays, language certification through Cambridge, and extensive community engagement opportunities. Its heritage-based campus and commitment to quality education make it a cornerstone of Cuenca's international educational community.