A Thank You to Everyone Who Makes BMS What It Is

*This speech was made by Abi at the End of Year Party 2026. We encourage families to read this together with their children — the message is written for our students, and it will mean much more when shared.*

As we close another school year at Barcelona Montessori School, I want to take a moment to reflect on all the people who make this community what it is — and to say a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you.

I want to take a moment to think about your Guides and teachers, and their constant dedication to your education — for making the decision every day to see you in a fresh light, to notice the subtle changes that show you are ready to learn a new skill, or have finally mastered another.

I also want to take a moment to recognise you parents, who have made the important decision to commit to working on themselves in order for you to have a different type of education than they did. They practice waiting to intervene just enough, mostly with their hands behind their backs, showing more importantly that they have taken the decision to trust in you. They have decided that whatever their profession, they will spend a little time every day to become observers of human development.

Both your teachers and your parents believe that you learn some of life's most important lessons not when adults tell you exactly what to do, but when you have the chance to think, choose, cooperate and learn from your experiences. They trust you with that responsibility, even when others might choose a different path. In fact, your parents and teachers believe in you so much that they sometimes find themselves debating these ideas with their own parents!

I also want to shine a light on those who do the often invisible work — in the offices, the kitchen, cleaning around school, driving buses or accompanying you to the pool. These people work behind the scenes to ensure that the school is clean, the building safe and above all, you are safe and healthy. We hope that as you grow, you carry with you the habit of noticing — and valuing — the work that holds everything together, even when no one is watching.

Finally, to all of you, the students: without you none of this would be possible. I have loved listening to your stories and your points of view. Your ability to see things from different perspectives is outstanding. Listening to how you solve problems, disagreements or learn to deal with your own frustrations and those of others, has taught me so much, and for this experience I am truly grateful. As you grow, people may ask you to be a little more like everyone else — don't lose the spark that makes you who you are. Hold on to your willingness to stand up for what you believe in, to risk making a mistake, and above all, to stay curious about everything the world has to offer you.

Most of us came to Montessori, to BMS, because we wanted a different education for our children and a different future. The journey is not always easy, but we are here to support one another.

It is only when we educate children to cooperate and to feel solidarity with one another, that we are educating for peace. And peace is something our world needs a lot more of today.

To our Guides and teachers, to our parents, to our staff who work behind the scenes, and to our wonderful students — thank you. This community is built on trust, curiosity, and a shared belief that education can change the world.

I hope you have a wonderful summer, and I look forward to continuing this journey together in September.

Warmly,

Abi