International Toddler Programme in Bangkok I 18 months - 3 years
LEARNING IN A NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
The Purple Elephant@55 located at the end of a quiet soi on Thonglor embodies the importance of relationships. Glass connecting the various spaces inside and out, pays homage to the connectedness that reinforces the pedagogy of relationships, in turn supporting stronger and more meaningful learning for those fortunate to find themselves gracing her environs. Meanwhile, the bamboo play structure enhances the beauty derived from using natural materials and reinforces the blending of old with new, pristine and perfect with recycled and repurposed, creating a lovely ambience in this stunning environment that is designed for children from eighteen months to three years of age.
The Purple Elephant 55
- 79 Soi Thong Lo 8 Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana Bangkok 10110, Thailand
- +66 (0)2 116 2394
- admissions.purpleelephant55@elc.ac.th
Our approach to learning
SMALL WONDERS, BIG DISCOVERIES
We respond to the curious nature of young children who are ready to explore their world by providing them with rich experiences that encourage a ‘sense of wonder’.
Our Preschool programme
Where it all begins
Each child brings to school unique life experiences that are respected for their diversity, and all are considered to be brimming with potential.
MEET THE PURPLE ELEPHANT 55 ADMINISTRATOR
LENA PATTERSON
I am a seasoned early childhood educator and school leader with 42 years of experience, originally from Quebec City, Canada. I grew up in a bilingual household as the youngest child of 7, my professional journey has taken me from Vancouver to Maui and finally to Bangkok in 1992, where I started as a K1 teacher at The City School. In 1997, I played a key role in opening the first Purple Elephant on Thonglor Soi 1. Holding a Preschool Supervisor Degree, my expertise and Reggio-inspired approach emphasizes a child-centered, experiential learning environment. As a school administrator and director, I can blend my international exposure with a deep understanding of the challenges and joys of early childhood development, further enriched by my role as a mother of two. I am committed to creating a supportive and enriching environment, believing that education is a lifelong journey filled with discovery and wonder.
AMANDA WATTS
As an early childhood educator with 16 years of experience, I have had the privilege of working with toddlers through primary-aged children across educational settings. I am from Vancouver, Canada, and my professional journey has taken me to Taiwan and Thailand, enriching my perspective and practice. I started my career at ELC as a classroom teacher on the Purple Elephant campus, moved on to The City School as a K1 teacher, and eventually took on an administrative role back at Purple Elephant.
My passion for nurturing young minds led me to earn both a Montessori diploma and a Primary Education degree. I firmly believe in co-creating learning experiences with children, emphasizing experiential and meaningful discoveries. To me, education is a partnership between school and home, fostering a strong sense of community and open communication. At Purple Elephant, our commitment to Project-Based Learning through the Reggio Emilia approach allows me to facilitate deep, hands-on learning experiences that resonate with the children. Beyond the educational setting, I am passionate about fitness, travel, and my love for horses.
THE PURPLE ELEPHANT PROJECT & PHILANTHROPY COORDINATOR
ALLISON DULMAGE
The constant driving force in my personal and professional life has always been my curiosity about the way in which we interact and connect with the world and people around us. I was introduced to elements of the Reggio Emilia approach early on in my career and my mentors consistently impressed upon me the importance of the image of the child and its impact on our interactions with children. Believing that children come to us capable and full of potential has shaped my practice over the years, allowing me the privilege to view the world through their eyes.
My career in education has brought me from Canada to the Middle East and finally to Thailand in 2014. I joined The City School with the intention of deepening my understanding of children’s learning and the Reggio philosophy. This decision would subsequently sow the seeds of the next chapter of my career as the Project Coordinator for The Purple Elephant schools. Through co-constructing projects with children, I have gained a greater awareness of the environment as the third teacher. Taking time to reflect, collaborate, and plan spaces that inspire wonder and investigation has been an ever expanding area of personal research. Mentoring educators has also offered me the opportunity to better understand project development and continually open my mind to new perspectives and insights. Within our collaborations, we are constantly working towards developing a wider sense of community between each of our schools through our projects. I look forward to what the future has in store as we continue to learn and grow together.
A beautiful green campus.
Marleen Swager - from The Netherlands
