From Gouda, the Netherlands, Jasmijn contacted Sophia Mundi hoping there was a spot for our children at Sophia Mundi. The website all looked so friendly. Sophia Mundi had to be a very nice and safe place.

After we landed in Melbourne and moved into our Airbnb, we got on our bikes and the five of us cycled to Sophia Mundi. The weather was lovely, and cycling to school was less scary than we had thought; there were bike paths everywhere, and Australians ride neatly and respectfully. We love cycling to school, the Abbortsford Convent is inspiring. The school is situated in an oasis of nature in the middle of Melbourne: a beautiful old oak, a large eucalyptus tree, a black-headed ibis, a wedding couple in the tea house…

At Sophia Mundi, we walked in somewhat shyly to sign up in advance, hoping everything would work out; we had been looking forward to it so much.

Just over a week later, it really began; the children went to school for the first time in a different city, in a different country, with different children than they were used to. What an exciting day, and what a warm welcome we received.

The first day of school, our son said he has never felt as much at home as he did in his class. He had found his tribe, and we are thankful he discovered a new version of himself at Sophia Mundi, one that fits who he truly is and he can carry with him into the future. He came home often inspired by the history/astrology/drawing classes from his teacher Lucy. Leto described her teaching style as improvisation and the day had a natural free flow.

Leonora felt at home immediately! She was insecure about her English at first, but her classmates were so eager to play and welcome her that she forgot about her insecurities. Craft was a highlight of the week. Jess, her teacher, radiates kindness and has supported her in many ways. One day, Jess complimented how Leonora’s skipping skills improved, and it made me realize just how attentive and caring she is. After all, who notices something as specific as a child’s skipping skills?

Robbie was allowed to go to the Prep, even though he was younger; what a beautiful playground. Robbie certainly found it a bit of an adjustment at the beginning; he didn't speak the language and all the children were new. Fortunately, Elise, Jenni and Emma gave great guidance, allowing him to quietly find his place. The other parents were also incredibly supportive during the times when things were more difficult for Robbie. And because of that, he found his place.

We were able to enjoy the school for three months, time flew by. Leto, Leonora, and Robbie all made friends and thoroughly enjoyed everything that happened at Sophia Mundi. But I, as a parent, also really enjoyed the hospitality of the community. I considered the weekly craft meeting for parents one of the highlights of my week. Waiting together with the other prep parents and children until the other classes were out was always fun too. The Autumn Fair was certainly a highlight of our Melbourne adventure as well. The Sophia Mundi community is truly wonderful, warm, and welcoming.

Leonora, Class 4:

“On the first day of school, I felt welcome right away. That feeling stayed with me throughout my time there. I made lots of friends, and we learned and talked a lot about Aboriginal culture. I made clapping sticks and a shield, it is super fun here.”

Leto, Class 6;

“I felt free to be me myself, there was no pressure from other students”

Robbie, prep;

“I love that I can play outside all the time and don’t have to do chores/tasks.”

Now it is almost time for us to leave Melbourne again; we are going to miss you so much. My image of Melbourne has been shaped by the people of Sophia Mundi. You could say that, for me, you are actually Melbourne. Melbourne is amazing.

Thank you!

Rob, Jasmijn, Leto, Leonora and Robbie