Dear Team,

This week's newsletter brings you our latest updates and key information, including:

A huge shoutout to Teresa Cruz and Susana Alves for their incredible dedication and hard work during the scholarship meetings — your efforts truly make a difference!

A special thank you to the amazing team who safely guided our students to and from Sierra Nevada: Maria Gomes, Joana Geraldo, Dimitri Athanasopoulos, Diogo Naves, and Erwin Russel — your care and commitment were invaluable.

A big thanks also to Inês Fragoso for her effort in organizing the replacements for the team members who are absent.

Lastly, a well-deserved recognition to Diogo Santos for his tireless efforts in organizing school field trips. Your attention to detail and dedication ensure that our students have enriching and unforgettable learning experiences.

Special thanks can be from colleague to colleague — we encourage you to share yours with us!

Although we currently do not have any open positions, we are always available to meet and attract the best talent.

As we believe that YOU are the ideal people to identify and recommend future colleagues, we have decided to implement an active referral system.

This means that, if you refer a future colleague (and they mention that you informed them about the opportunity), you will receive a compensation of 150 euros.

 

PRESCHOOL: Microscopic lab, little scientists in action!

This week, the preschool turned into a laboratory with Sophie Dias leading the “Dreamers” in exploring the microscopic world! They observed hair strands, onion peel patterns, sparkling salt crystals, and even microorganisms in water. The class was filled with excitement, as the kids marvelled at their discoveries.

This hands-on experience encourages curiosity and an open mind, teaching them that the world always has something new to offer. They’re off to an incredible start.

PRIMARY: Well-Being Superheroes

Last week, a health workshop was held for 2nd-year students, featuring parents from health-related professions. With examples from naturalists to pharmacists, children learned about behaviors promoting physical and mental well-being, both individually and collectively.

They discussed the importance of vaccination, proper medication use (especially antibiotics), and identified health risks. The students also suggested prevention and protection measures, covering various health and safety topics, reinforcing key concepts from the Essential Learning Goals.

MIDDLE SCHOOL - Learning English with the Leitner system!

This week, 8B students used the Leitner System of Flashcards in their ESL class, combining study skills with fun learning. The system has three boxes for spaced repetition: Box 1 (reviewed every class), Box 2 (twice a week), and Box 3 (every 15 days).

Correct answers move flashcards to higher boxes, while mistakes send them back to Box 1. This dynamic method strengthens vocabulary and empowers students to take control of their learning journey, blending strategy with enjoyment!

SECONDARY: Grade 9: Math Masters in Action!

Last week, our Grade 9 students excelled at the Math competition at Kairos Montessori School in Cascais, joining other regional schools. They demonstrated that numbers and fun go hand in hand, tackling challenging problems with great teamwork and enthusiasm.

Their energy and collaborative spirit were truly inspiring! Special congratulations to Ines Moura Cirne, Martin Andres Correa, Katerina Bratyna, Danielle Hanan, Téo Estigarribia, Gabriel Melo, Zlatosveta Ryzhikova, Sofia Teixeira Pregun Gouveia Gönczi, and Joana Martins for their outstanding performance!

SKI TRIP TO SIERRA NEVADA

Aprendizes students recently embarked on an unforgettable ski trip to Sierra Nevada! From February 2nd to February 6th, they had the chance to learn skiing skills, improve their technique, and enjoy the breathtaking winter landscape.

The trip was filled with fun, risk taking, adventure, and teamwork, as students explored the slopes, made lasting memories, and connected with their peers.

Alongside skiing, they also participated in outdoor activities, embracing the beauty of nature. This trip provided an excellent opportunity for personal growth, new experiences, and a chance to make the most of the winter season!

12 feb | Grade 3, 4, 5 e 6 - Lasa Tournament at Restelo - 9:00 to 16:00

13 feb | Grade 7, 8, 9 e 10 - Lasa Tournament at Restelo - 9:00 to 16:00

11 feb to 14 feb | Model United Nations – Porto

19 feb | Preschool - Teatro Tivoli - 9:30 to 14:00

19 feb | Grade 10 e 11 - University Fair - 14:00 to 16:00

19 feb | IGCSE Fair - Grade 8 Students and Parents - 14:00 to 16:00

20 feb | House Meeting - Teacher Training Session 4:15 PM to 5:00 PM

20 feb | House Meeting - Staff Meeting 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM

21 feb | Grade 2 - Museu Gulbenkian - 8:30 to 14:00

21 feb to 22 feb | Duke of Edinburgh Bronze - Practice expedition and camp at school. - 21/02 - 11:30 to 17:30 | 22/02 - 8:00 to 14:00

21 feb | Bio Market - 16:30 to 18:00

26 feb | Parents Meeting for Secondary (Online - Afternoon, Students will leave at 12:00)

26 feb | Sports Workshop - Bowling Birre - 13:30 to 15:45

26 feb | Grade 3 - Tapada de Mafra - 8:45 to 16:00

27 feb | Parents Career Day for Secondary - 14:00 to 16:00

27 feb to 28 feb | Primary and Middle School Art Exhibition

28 feb | Grade 9 to 11 – Environmental - 8:45 to 17:00

Save the date - April 3-4 | Regeneration Festival

 

HIGHLIGHT EVENT

HUMANITIES WEEK: Understanding Our World Through Social Sciences

From February 10th to 14th, Aprendizes International Active Learning School will host Humanities Week, focused on Social Sciences under the theme "Understanding Our World."

The event celebrates active learning, encouraging students to explore society and global history. Students will present creative projects from history and present researches, and Model United Nations simulations.

Families are invited to engage, fostering community involvement. The week promotes critical thinking and empathy, preparing students to become informed, global citizens.

UPCOMING EVENT

IGCSE SUBJECTS FAIR

We are excited to inform you that the Subject Fair for 8th graders will take place on February 19th, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Village 2. This event is an excellent opportunity for students to explore course options and make informed decisions about their future studies.

Parents and students will visit themed rooms:

  • Humanities: History, Sociology, Business, Global Perspectives

  • Languages & Arts: French, Spanish, Art & Design, Music

  • STEM: ICT, Environmental Management, Core/Extended Maths and Sciences

Teachers will present detailed subject information, sample exam papers, and syllabus materials to support students' decision-making process. Let's make this event informative and inspiring for our students!

upcoming EVENT

PARENTS' DAY COFFEE

Just a reminder that Parents' Day Coffee will take place on February 21st, from 8:45 AM to 10:00 AM.

This is a wonderful opportunity for parents to connect, share ideas, and discuss their child's progress in a relaxed atmosphere.

It's a great chance to strengthen the bond between home and school. Please inform your teams, and feel free to direct any questions to us!

upcoming EVENT

BIO MARKET | FEBRUARY EDITION

Don't forget! On February 21st, join us at BIO MARKET! From 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM, we'll be at our usual spot, sharing authentic, local, and sustainable products that are part of our everyday lives.

📍 Location: Usual tent
🕒 Time: 4:15 PM - 6:00 PM

Be bold, be, healthy, be real!

upcoming EVENT

PARENTS' CAREER DAY

Just a reminder that Parents' Career Day will be held on February 27th, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, at Village 2. This event offers a fantastic opportunity for parents to share their professions and experiences with our Secondary students.

It’s a unique chance to inspire the next generation and help them gain insight into different career paths. We encourage all parents to participate and contribute to this valuable experience for our students.

Please inform your teams, and feel free to reach out with any questions!

HOUSE MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT

On February 20th, we'll kick off with a Teacher Training Session from 16:15 to 17:00, in the section (you will receive more information from your Head of Sections).

From 17:00 to 18:00, all staff will come together to discuss key links with form and share management information. If you have a topic to propose or would like to ask a question, feel free to suggest it via the form.

Join us for a happy hour afterwards!

SHARE YOUR BEST PRACTICES AND EVENTS WITH US!

If any teachers have good practices, activities, or events to share, please send the information to the Communications Department via Teams (Vanessa Fevereiro) or by email at vanessafevereiro@aprendizes.pt.

You can also invite the Communications Manager to attend your activity via Teams. If you need guidance on taking photos or videos, or what information to highlight, feel free to reach out!

Our Next Country Days: 

February 13 - LATVIA in our kitchen

February 20 - NORWAY in our kitchen

February 27 - PERU in our kitchen

February’s SEASONAL STAR: Tangerine

The Mediterranean climate enhances the sweet flavor and juiciness of citrus fruits, and for many Portuguese, the tangerine is synonymous with childhood memories and family moments. It’s common to see them on Christmas tables or served as a healthy snack.

The characteristic aroma of the peel is also associated with winter, filling the air with a comforting citrus scent. This fruit is perfect for natural juices, desserts, meat sauces, fresh salads, and even jams!

Our tangerines come from the S. Sivestre Orchard.

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