Joaquin Olarte

Psychologist with extensiveknowledge in Developmental and Educational Psychology. With over 10 years of experience in the design,structuring and implementation of educational programs and curricula based on psycho-educational and cognitive processes related to the child, adolescent and young adult development, as well as special educational needs.

I am a psychologist, special educator, and inclusion specialist with over a decade of experience in inclusive education, developmental and educational psychology, and IB schools. My work focuses on creating equitable learning environments where all students—regardless of their learning profile—can thrive.

I have worked in IB schools such as Colegio Anglo Colombiano and Colegio Gran Bretaña, where I served as both a SEN teacher and SENCO for the secondary section. In these roles, I led learning support teams, coordinated student accommodations, and collaborated with teachers to implement Universal Design for Learning (UDL), differentiated instruction, and student-centered teaching strategies.

Currently, I am the Whole School Inclusion & Differential Coordinator at Colegio Hacienda Los Alcaparros, a Cognia-certified school. My role involves leading school-wide inclusion strategies, working with teachers to adapt curriculum and assessment methods, and ensuring that all students—especially those with learning differences—have access to meaningful and high-quality education.

In addition to my work in schools, I have 10+ years of experience in math and English tutoring for Grades 1-8, supporting both native and non-native English speakers. Through one-on-one and small-group sessions, I help students develop confidence in problem-solving, comprehension, and communication while adapting lessons to their unique learning needs.

I strongly believe that inclusion is a shared responsibility—it is not only up to the student to adapt, but also up to educators, schools, and communities to create environments where every learner belongs. My work is driven by a commitment to educational justice, accessibility, and lifelong learning, ensuring that all students have the tools they need to succeed, grow, and feel valued.

I have a strong academic foundation in psychology, education, and inclusive teaching methodologies, complemented by specialized training in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and differentiated instruction.

• International Postgraduate in Education (iPGCE) – East London University (2020)
• Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology – Pontificia Universidad Javeriana (2012)

Additionally, I have pursued further professional development in inclusive education and teaching strategies:

• Universal Design for Learning: Explore – Harvard Graduate School of Education (2022)
• Differentiated Instruction Made Practical – Harvard Graduate School of Education (2019)
• Education Differences and Inclusion in the Regular Classroom for Children with Learning Difficulties (2016)
• Leadership Workshop and Comprehensive Training Course (2011)

I have also completed various technical communication and professional development courses through the National Service for Training (SENA) and have participated in international conferences on diversity and inclusion.