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Services and history

The Birth of a Legacy in El Socorro, Santander

Andes Spanish School is the realization of a vision born in 2009 in the heart of Santander. Originally founded as EHE Spanish School by Cristian and Seon Jeong, our institution marked a milestone as the first Spanish as a Foreign Language (ELE) school in El Socorro and the first of its kind in Eastern Colombia. With over 15 years of experience, we have perfected a unique methodology that blends Colombian warmth and joy with Korean discipline and hospitality. Today, as Andes Spanish School, we continue to transform the historic heritage of El Socorro into a living classroom, offering an educational experience that transcends borders and connects travelers with the most authentic essence of Colombia.

Experience That Transcends Borders

With a combined trajectory spanning 11 countries and over 25 years of teaching experience, our founders bring a unique perspective to education:

• Seon Jeong Lee: Specialist in teaching languages as a second language.

• Cristian Contreras: University professor, providing academic rigor and a structured pedagogical approach.

A Global Encounter, An Andean Identity

The story of Andes Spanish School began long before the first lesson was ever taught. In 2005, in the city of Nantes, France, two worlds met: Cristian Contreras (Colombia) and Seon Jeong Lee (South Korea). What started as an exchange of ideas between Latin and Asian cultures blossomed into a vision: to build a bridge for the world through language.

From E.H.E. to Andes Spanish School:

Evolution and Purpose

Today, we evolve into Andes Spanish School. We don’t just teach a language; we invite students of all ages from every corner of the globe to experience a deep immersion into Andean culture.

Our location in El Socorro is no coincidence. We are here to prove that great ideas are also born in small towns. We have worked hand-in-hand with the local community to break paradigms, demonstrating that this corner of Santander is a hub for global thinking and a "living Spanish classroom" for the world.

CRISTIAN CONTRERAS

Head Teacher & Co-founder | Andespanish.com

Academic Profile & Certifications

• MA in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language (ELE) Candidate – UNIR, Spain.

• M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering – Specialist in Technical Spanish for Foreigners.

• DELE Certified Teacher & Evaluator – Accredited by Instituto Cervantes (Levels A1 to C2).

• Certified Teacher of Spanish as a Foreign Language – Instituto Caro y Cuervo, Colombia.

Experience & Specialization

• 20+ years of experience in technical and university-level instruction.

• Expert in ESP (Spanish for Specific Purposes): Science, Engineering, and Cycle Tourism.

• Curriculum Leadership: Creator of language immersion programs and teacher training frameworks.

My methodology was born while cycling across South America. There, I learned that Spanish is so much more than grammar: it is rhythm, culture, and connection. Today, at Andes Spanish School, I teach you that 'Andean Spanish'—clear and steady—that allowed me to traverse a continent and will now empower you to conquer yours.