WELCOME TO OUR WORLD
Bilingual & Multilingual Learning (BML).
At KSI Montenegro, we are proud to be an accredited BML SMART School, dedicated to meeting the diverse needs of our Bilingual and Multilingual Learners (BMLs). With the vast majority of our students being bilingual and many multilingual, we understand the importance of tailored teaching strategies that make learning accessible and meaningful for all.
We believe that language is a powerful tool that connects us to our cultures and each other. By embracing and nurturing our students’ linguistic abilities, we prepare them not only for academic success but also for meaningful and fulfilling lives in an increasingly diverse world.
As the only BML SMART School in Montenegro and one of just eight worldwide, we take great pride in leading the way in supporting bilingual and multilingual learners. We believe that understanding and embracing linguistic diversity is key to nurturing globally-minded, empathetic, and high-achieving students. Our commitment to this philosophy is evident in every classroom, and around our school, where students are encouraged to explore and express their identities while receiving the highest quality of education.
At KSIM School, we are more than just a place of learning; we are a community that celebrates the unique strengths and contributions of every student. By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, we prepare our students not just to succeed academically but to thrive as confident, capable, and compassionate individuals in an interconnected world.
What is a BML SMART School?
A BML SMART School is committed to enhancing the educational experiences of students who navigate multiple languages in their daily lives. Our teachers receive comprehensive training in best, research-based, practices for supporting bilingual and multilingual students. This ongoing training equips them to anticipate the unique challenges BML students may face and to deliver instruction in ways that are culturally relevant and easily understood. We also celebrate the linguistic diversity of our students, viewing their ability to speak multiple languages as a tremendous asset. Even if their English is still developing, we always recognise them as competent learners with the potential to excel in all areas of their education.
What are the advantages of attending a BML SMART School?
At KSIM, our school environment is one where every child feels valued and accepted, regardless of their linguistic background. We encourage students to share their cultural heritage and languages with each other, fostering a sense of community and mutual respect. This inclusive atmosphere enables our students to thrive both academically and socially. Attending a BML SMART School offers several distinct advantages:
1. Enhanced Academic Support:
Our teachers are trained to implement a variety of teaching strategies that cater to the unique needs of BML students. By incorporating multilingual resources, differentiated instruction, and culturally responsive teaching, we ensure that every student has access to high-quality learning opportunities that support their individual growth.
2. Cognitive and Linguistic Benefits:
Research shows that bilingual and multilingual learners often demonstrate greater cognitive flexibility, problem-solving abilities, and creativity. Our approach not only reinforces these advantages but also helps students develop strong literacy skills in both their native language and English, which can enhance their overall academic performance.
3. Celebration of Cultural Diversity:
Whether it be at PYP, MYP or DP, our IB curriculum is designed to integrate and celebrate the diverse cultural backgrounds of all our students. Through units of work, projects, presentations, and school-wide events, students have the opportunity to explore and share their culture and heritage with peers. This not only builds confidence but also fosters a sense of pride in their identities and helps cultivate a global perspective.
4. Social-Emotional Development:
Feeling understood and respected is crucial for the social-emotional well-being of every child. Our inclusive environment helps students build positive relationships with their peers and teachers, leading to a strong sense of belonging. This supportive atmosphere encourages students to take risks, ask questions, and engage deeply with their learning.
5. Preparation for a Globalised World:
In today’s interconnected world, being able to communicate across languages and cultures is a valuable skill. Our students are not only learning languages but are also developing intercultural competencies that will serve them well in their future personal and professional lives. They leave KSIM not just as proficient multilingual speakers but as adaptable, empathetic, and open-minded individuals ready to contribute to a global society.
6. Increased Confidence and Self-Esteem:
We believe that every student’s linguistic background is an asset, not a barrier. By recognising and valuing each child’s linguistic journey, we help build their confidence and self-esteem. Students are encouraged to use their multiple languages as a bridge to learning and connecting with others, which reinforces a positive self-image and a strong sense of identity.
7. Community Engagement:
We actively involve families and the wider community in our school life, recognising that education is a shared responsibility. By hosting multilingual events, workshops, and cultural celebrations, we create a welcoming space where parents and community members can contribute to the learning environment. This collaboration strengthens the bond between the school and families, creating a cohesive support network for our students.
What does this look like in the Classroom?
In our classrooms, lessons are carefully planned with an awareness of the challenges BML students might encounter. Teachers are trained to recognise when additional explanations or resources are needed, particularly when teaching concepts that may not have direct equivalents in a student’s native language. This approach ensures that all students, regardless of their linguistic background, can fully engage with and understand the material.
How does this approach support all students at KSIM?
The strategies we use to support BML students are beneficial for all learners. We follow the principle that what is useful for some can be essential for others. For instance, breaking down complex vocabulary and providing clear, step-by-step explanations help not only BML students but also native English speakers. This inclusive approach creates a learning environment where every student can succeed.
Why did KSIM pursue BML SMART School Accreditation?
Given that most of our students are bilingual or multilingual, we wanted to ensure that our teaching practices are as inclusive and effective as possible. By training every teacher in BML teaching strategies, we provide all students with the opportunity to receive information in a way that is clear and accessible to them. Our goal is to help every child at KSIM feel confident in their abilities and to celebrate the rich tapestry of languages and cultures that make our school community so vibrant.