Dear Parents, Guardians and Students,
In this week's newsletter, please find our latest updates and important information, including:
Preschool celebrates St. Martin´s Day with bonfire
Primary creates clay gifts for their families in art class
Middle School explores music in new ways at Big Bang Festival
Secondary explores kidney function through hands-on experience
Highlight Event - Bio Market (November’s Edition)
Highlight Event - Book Clubs at Aprendizes
Hightlight Event - STEM Week
Highlight Event - Open Day (New Date)
Get ready for Christmas Celebrations
Celebrating European Week for Waste Reduction
Bi-weekly Menu/ Country Days in Our Kitchen
November’s Seasonal Star: Pumpkin
Introducing Lisbon-Cascais Academic Leadership Forum
The Bouldering Wall is Ready: Let’s Climb Safely!
Traffic Committee Meeting
Leadership meet Parents Organisation Committee to Discuss Key Topics
Last Call: Join our Winter Animal Care Campaign
Get to know Our Partnerships
Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,
As the world gathers for COP 29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, the stakes for our planet have never been higher. Despite urgent discussions, the gap between promises and actions remains glaring. Climate disasters are escalating—heatwaves, floods, wildfires, and storms are devastating lives and communities everywhere. These events directly threaten the fundamental Right of the Child to live a life in safety and security.
With global temperatures already reaching the critical 1.5°C threshold in 2024, we can no longer afford inaction. It is profoundly frustrating to witness the lack of bold leadership and comprehensive national climate strategies. The responsibility to secure a livable future falls increasingly to the next generation—a weight they should never have had to bear alone.
At our school, we are preparing students for this challenge. Recently, our 10th-grade students visited our local waste management station to see how waste plays a role in climate change. Food and organic materials in landfills are the third-largest source of methane emissions globally, responsible for 20%, after agriculture (40%) and fossil fuels (35%). Without change, global waste production is projected to rise by 77% by 2050 (GWMO).
This learning complements the food waste awareness initiatives we emphasize through assemblies, the Food Waste Mural, and classroom discussions. However, education in school alone is not enough. Are these topics part of your conversations at home?
We must act now. Our children deserve a future where they can live, thrive, and dream without the shadow of climate catastrophe. Let’s ensure that, together, we rise to this critical moment.
Warm regards,
Rikke Friis Mikkelsen
PRESCHOOL celebrates St. Martin´s Day with bonfire
Our preschoolers went outside to celebrate St. Martin´s Day, where they helped to prepare a small bonfire, which would be used for roasting chestnuts. Afterwards the children helped collect and prepare the leftover chestnut shells for composting, learning about the importance of recycling and caring for the environment.
PRIMARY creates clay gifts for their families in art class
Our second grade students created special Christmas holiday gifts for their families using clay. They experimented with different techniques, carefully shaping the clay into various forms. Next, the pieces will be dried and hardened, preparing them for the final steps. In the coming weeks, the students will paint and decorate their creations, adding personal touches to make each gift special.
MIDDLE SCHOOL explores music in new ways at Big Bang Festival
Our 5th graders attended the Big Bang Festival, which explores music in new, innovative ways. During the festival, the students had the chance to interact with rare and unusual instruments. One standout was the Amoura, possibly the largest hurdy-gurdy in the world, which can fit a dozen people inside.
SECONDARY explores kidney function through hands-on experience
In A-level Biology the 12th grade students engaged in a valuable hands-on activity by dissecting a real mammalian kidney. Through the dissection, students could observe the kidney’s structure and ultrastructure in a tangible way, identifying components they had previously only seen in diagrams and textbooks. By exploring the kidney in three dimensions, they gained a deeper understanding of its complexity, examining structures like the cortex, medulla, and renal pelvis firsthand.
This week we hosted our first session for Parents from grade 7 to grade 12 and it was wonderful to have you there!
We discussed the adolescent phase: how the brain develops and how this affects teens’ behaviour, needs, impulse control and decision making.
Their brain is transforming, they are searching for their identify, their priorities are shifting and growing autonomy and independence also makes them scared and excited. It’s a rocky sea, but filled with opportunities.
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
18-22 NOV | EUROPEAN WEEK FOR WASTE REDUCTION
25-29 NOV | SCIENCE, TECNHOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND MATH (STEM) WEEK
26 NOV | BOOKCLUB FOR ADOLESCENCE (Portuguese) (6:30 PM)
28 NOV | LISBON-CASCAIS ACADEMIC LEADERSHIP FORUM
28 NOV- 1 NOV | BARCELONA MUN
29 NOV | BIO MARKET (4:15 PM to 6 PM)
03 DEC | APRENDIZES BOOK CLUB (English) (6:30 PM)
06 DEC | PARENTS COFFEE MORNING (8:45)
10 DEC | OPEN DAY FOR NEW FAMILIES (9:00 TO 10:30 PM)
13 DEC | CHRISTMAS CONCERT (2:15 TO 4:00 PM)
13 DEC | BIOMARKET (CHRISTMAS EDITION)
18, 19 DEC | MODEL UNITED NATIONS (MUN) AT APRENDIZES
20 DEC | PRESCHOOL & PRIMARY CHRISTMAS PARTY
JOIN US FOR BIO MARKET (NOVEMBER’S EDITION)
We hope you’re ready for another exciting Bio Market!
Date: Friday, 29th of November
Time: 4:15 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: The Tent
REGISTRATION HERE (only for selling partners)
Come and discover a fantastic selection of organic and sustainable products while supporting our local vendors. It’s a wonderful chance to enjoy a beautiful afternoon, shop for eco-friendly goods, and continue contributing to our community’s green initiatives.
We ask you to keep two key points in mind:
Food and Beverage Compliance: All food and beverage products must adhere to the school’s food policy. If you have any questions, we are more than happy to assist you. To ensure transparency, vendors selling food or drinks MUST clearly display a list of ingredients at their tables.
Waste Management Responsibility: We are all accountable for the waste generated at this event and its proper disposal. Please use the designated bins for different types of waste, and help your customers dispose of packaging or leftovers correctly. As a vendor, you are also responsible for any waste your products create. Our team will be available to assist with this throughout the event.
Responsibility for Children and Adolescents: On the day of the Bio Market, from the end of classes onward, children and adolescents are the responsibility of their parents or guardians, except for those attending extracurricular activities or waiting to be picked up by their parents. Once parents or guardians arrive at the school, they assume full responsibility for their children. Please note that we do not have staff available to supervise children during the Bio Market.
BOOK CLUB APRENDIZES
BOOK CLUB FOR ADOLESCENCE
GET READY FOR STEM WEEK
Join us as we dive into the exciting world of Science, Mathematics, and IT during our upcoming STEM Week! This special week is packed with interactive activities, challenges, and projects designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in these vital fields.
Our aim is to spark a love for discovery and problem-solving, showcasing how STEM skills can shape the future and open endless possibilities.
OPEN DAY TO NEW FAMILIES AT APRENDIZES
We are excited to welcome new families to our Open Day, taking place on December 10th at 9:00 AM TO 10:30 AM. This is a wonderful opportunity for prospective families to learn more about our school community and educational programs. During the event, you will:
Meet our Principal and Head of Academics, who will provide valuable insights into our school’s vision and curriculum.
Enjoy a personalized tour of the section that interests you most: Preschool, Primary, Middle School, or Secondary. See firsthand how we nurture and challenge students at every stage of their education.
To ensure a seamless experience, registration is required.
Please if your know any interested families tell them to register early to secure their spot! The event will be hosted in English Language.
GET READY FOR CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS
The holiday spirit is in the air, and we are gearing up for a festive season full of joy and celebration! Mark your calendars and join us for a special day filled with music, community, and holiday cheer. As we wrap up the term and celebrate the season, we remind everyone that attendance during the last week is mandatory.
13 dec | 2:15 to 4:00 | Christmas Concert 🎶
We invite everyone to gather in the refectory for our Christmas Concert. Enjoy beautiful performances that capture the magic of the season and celebrate the talents of our students. Also, this festive event will feature beautiful performances by some of our talented students from BLISS, our extracurricular music school.
After the concert, feel free to stay and explore the Christmas edition of our Biomarket. It’s the perfect opportunity to pick up unique gifts, enjoy festive treats, and share the holiday spirit with friends and family.
20 DEC | 9:30 TO 12:00 | PRESCHOOL & PRIMARY CHRISTMAS PARTY
At the heart of our Christmas celebration is a unique tradition: the creation and dramatization of Christmas stories. These stories are collaboratively written by the children themselves, with each cycle weaving its own narrative full of imagination and holiday cheer.
Adding to the festivities, there will also be a theatrical performance organized by the parents. Parents interested in participating or learning more about the play can reach out to their class representatives, who have all the information needed for preparation and coordination.
The celebrations will also include a shared brunch in each classroom, creating an opportunity to exchange holiday traditions and strengthen our sense of community.
PRESCHOOL
9:30 – 10:30: Musical performance by the children + Parents’ theatre play
10:30: Shared brunch in classrooms
PRIMARY
9:30 – 10:30: Shared brunch in classrooms
10:30: Musical performance by the children + Parents’ theatre play
Celebrating European Week for Waste Reduction
Aprendizes is proud to join the European Week of Waste Reduction, focusing on the importance of sustainable waste practices and environmental responsibility. Throughout the week, various activities will be organized across the school to raise awareness about waste reduction, recycling, and sustainable practices. Engaging students in these initiatives is essential for fostering responsible habits and empowering them to make environmentally conscious choices. By celebrating this week together, we take steps towards a cleaner, greener future.
Middle School Students Take on Recycling Graphic Design Challenge
Celebrating the European Week for Waste Reduction: Grade 10 Students Visit Tratolixo
Food Waste Mural: A Step Forward During Waste Reduction Week
Grade 9 engages in a Workshop on Food Waste Awareness (soon available)
Our Next Country Days:
TODAY - FRENCH DAY in our Kitchen
November 28th - THANKSGIVING in our Kitchen
December 5th - CANADA DAY in our Kitchen
NOVEMBER’S SEASONAL STAR: PUMPKIN
As autumn deepens and the air turns crisp, November’s spotlight shines brightly on the season’s most iconic treasure: the pumpkin. From its warm, earthy flavor to its versatility in both sweet and savory dishes, pumpkin reigns as a beloved seasonal favorite this month.
Why Pumpkin?
Rich in nutrients like vitamin A and antioxidants, pumpkin is as nourishing as it is delicious. It’s perfect for creating comforting classics like pumpkin pie, creamy soups, and spiced lattes—or for exploring innovative recipes like pumpkin risotto, roasted pumpkin salads, or even pumpkin-inspired cocktails.
This November, embrace the charm and flavor of pumpkins. Whether you’re cooking, baking, or simply enjoying their festive presence, make them the star of your seasonal celebrations!
LISBON-CASCAIS
ACADEMIC LEADERSHIP FORUM (LCELF)
Aprendizes is taking the initiative to create a forum aiming to foster collaboration among heads of academics, curriculum leaders, and educational professionals from international schools within the Lisbon Metropolitan Area.
The first session will be held on November 28th with 9 other schools about the following themes:
Mobile Technology in Education – Analysing the impact of mobile tools on student engagement and learning
Artificial Intelligence in Education – Discussing AI’s potential to enhance teaching and learning experience
In an ever-evolving educational landscape, initiatives like the LCELF empower schools to stay at the forefront of change. By working together, leaders can drive meaningful improvements, fostering an environment where both educators and students can thrive.
We want to be the best with the rest!
TRAFFIC COMMITEE MEETING
We’re pleased to share an update from the Traffic Committee’s first meeting, which proved to be both productive and insightful. During the meeting, we identified key causes of traffic challenges during drop-off and pick-up times and brainstormed a range of potential solutions that will be shared with the community as soon as approved.
Promoting Sustainability Through Carpooling
One exciting initiative already underway is the creation of a WhatsApp carpooling group. This group is designed to help parents coordinate carpools, reducing traffic congestion and supporting a more sustainable way of commuting to school.
If you’re interested in joining the carpooling group, you can find the link above. Please note that by joining, you’ll be sharing your contact information and potentially your address with other parents. However, we believe this initiative will foster collaboration among families and contribute to easing traffic during busy hours.
Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we work toward solutions that benefit everyone in our community. Together, we can make drop-off and pick-up times smoother and more efficient!
THE BOULDERING WALL IS READY:
Let’s Climb Safely!
We’re excited to announce that the highly anticipated bouldering wall is now ready for use! This fantastic new addition to our facilities offers a fun and challenging way for students and staff to stay active, build strength, and develop climbing skills.
Safety First: Follow the Guidelines
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the Bouldering Wall Guidelines Document. This infoprovides essential instructions and safety measures, including:
Proper use of the climbing area.
Rules for maintaining a safe environment for climbers and spectators.
Guidance on spotting techniques and maximum height limits.
By following these guidelines, we can promote a culture of safety, respect, and responsibility while making the most of this exciting new feature.
LEADERSHIP MEETS PARENTS ORGANISATION COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS KEY TOPICS
We are pleased to announce an upcoming meeting between the school leadership and the Parents Organisation Committee (POC), a vital step in fostering transparency and collaboration within our community.
About the Parents Organisation Committee
The Parents Organisation Committee was elected during the first PTSO (Parent-Teacher-Student Organization) meeting of the year, ensuring representation from all sections of our school - MARCO MURA (Preschool), LEONORA NOVAES (Primary), MARTA VITORINO (Middle) and KERIJA SOARES (Secondary). This diverse group of parent representatives serves as a bridge between families and the school, advocating for the community’s interests and supporting constructive dialogue.
The meeting will focus on important topics that shape our school’s future, including:
Next Year’s Fees: Reviewing and discussing the proposed fee structure for the upcoming academic year;
Parent Surveys: Getting inputs for the Parent’s Survey.
This meeting underscores our commitment to an open and collaborative relationship with parents. By engaging with the POC, we aim to ensure decisions reflect the diverse perspectives of our community, aligning with our shared goals for excellence in education.
LAST CALL:
JOIN OUR WINTER ANIMAL CARE CAMPAIGN
We are collecting supplies for cats dogs, and other animals in need. Your donations will help provide food, warmth, and care for animals in shelters as winter approaches.
Please leave your donations in front of the Sports Wall.
All donations will go to Associação S. Francisco de Assis