
More than Words: Bringing Portuguese to Life Across Our School
From May 4th to 8th, our school celebrated Portuguese Language Week, extending the celebration of World Portuguese Language Day (May 5th) into a rich and engaging whole‑school experience. Throughout the week, a wide range of classroom‑based language and cultural activities took place across Primary and Secondary.
A significant highlight was the proactive engagement of staff who dedicated time to visiting classrooms, recounting their Portuguese learning journeys, and narrating stories in Portuguese to primary students. Grade 4 and 5 students explored the significance of World Portuguese Language Day using AI tools. In addition, Grade 4 Intermediate students participated in a special workshop with a globally published illustrator, who shared her personal journey of learning and mastering Portuguese.
Across the school, daily poetry broadcasts, creative displays of student work, and a digital QR glossary of essential Portuguese vocabulary ensured that Portuguese was both seen and heard, solidifying its place in daily life. The game “Tens bacalhau no bolso?” introduced a lighthearted, interactive feature for the team, and made the week even more memorable.
Lunchtime was accompanied by music from Portuguese-speaking countries and a special Portuguese inspired canteen menu, creating a fully immersive cultural tapestry.








Madalena, a student in Grade 5, penned a poignant verse on the legacy of the “25th of April”. Her creative output acts as a thoughtful exploration of Portugal's historical trajectory toward freedom and will be shared with the wider school community during the weekly poetry recital, represented by Primary school students.

Summary of our last events
LAST TWO WEEKS RECAP

BAKING WORKSHOP
During UBB, our Grade 8 students participated in a baking workshop held in the school canteen. With the help of Paola, the mother of a Grade 11 student, they learned to bake authentic Argentine alfajores cookies. Students enjoyed a hands-on, educational experience baking and tasting their own creations!

SECONDARY TALENT SHOW
The House Competition & Secondary Talent Show was a great success, showcasing a wide variety of performances including juggling, singing, violin performances, and dancing. Students had been rehearsing for weeks and it was wonderful opportunity for them to shine on stage and share their talents.

VISIT TO MUSEO ALJUBE
Just one week after the 25th of April celebrations, marking the liberation of Portugal, our IB1 students visited the Aljube Museum of Resistance and Freedom. Students gained firsthand insights into Portugal’s authoritarian regime, anti-regime resistance, and the fight for democracy, reflecting on the past to understand our collective identity and protect democratic institutions.

RESTORING ARRÁBIDA
Our 8th Grade students visited the Regen Waves site in Arrábida for a field trip focusing on restoration, tree planting, or biodiversity care. Surrounded by the beautiful landscapes and natural biodiversity of Arrábida Park, students investigated the local ecosystem firsthand. They restored the riverbank by planting a mix of native trees, flowers, and foliage

TABLE TENNIS SEASON
What an incredible achievement and a successful season for United Lisbon! Congratulations to Robin, Grade 9, for securing the top position in the Regional tournament and qualifying for the National competition to take place in the Algarve. We also saw outstanding performances from Grade 11 student, Hugo, who finished in 3rd place, and Grade 11 student, Emilien, who secured a noteworthy 8th-place finish.

SOCIAL MEDIA MIDDLE SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
The Social Media Assembly provided vital insights for our 6th–8th grade students, highlighting platform functionality and potential online risks. We also examined the companies behind these platforms and the impact of AI.

TOK EXHIBITION
With the academic year drawing to a close for our IB students, the sports hall served as a venue for students to demonstrate their knowledge and present their TOK findings to the school community. The topics presented were wide-ranging, covering significant global, religious, and geopolitical issues.

COFFEE MORNING
As we near the end of the school year, we hosted a Coffee Morning to foster an open dialogue with parents regarding their feedback and ideas. Led by Nina Cashin, Head of Admissions and Marketing, the session addressed parent questions and outlined plans for the upcoming year. The dialogue also encompassed the increasing integration of AI in education, along with its associated future challenges.

TEDX MARVILA SALON
On the 8th of May, we hosted the TEDx Marvila Salon event, where The Art of Public Speaking was the central theme. Participants joined together to deliberate on communication, one of our most defining human behaviors. We left inspired by moving stories and compelling ideas, reminded of the enduring power of public speaking to connect us.

BOOK WEEK
Organised by librarian Tania Lopes, with support from James at Primary, as well as Kate Loveday, Marcela, and Travis, Book Week provided a wonderful opportunity to celebrate literacy and bring our favorite stories to life. Students fully immersed themselves in the festivities by crafting handmade bookmarks, participating in the Dress as a Character challenge, and taking the Read in Unique Places activity to heart
Top Fun Moments of the Month So Far


From our Academy to the Sporting Lion: Joana and Riley take the next step

Last week, two of our standout talents, Joana (U11 Francisco Trincão team) and Riley (U13 Morten Hjulmand team), following a proactive referral from our technical staff to the Sporting CP Girls’ Scouting Department, were invited to undergo a trial session at the club. It was a week of immense growth, with both players admitting they were inspired by the elite technical standards and fitness of the Sporting CP squads.
This was only made possible because of the active and constant Partnership relationship with Sporting CP. Because we are in direct communication with their scouts, we can ensure that our players aren't just names on a roster, they are recognized talents.
We are thrilled to announce that Riley will be returning to continue her training with the club’s youth setup. Furthermore, in a testament to her high ceiling, Joana has been requested to move into Aurelio Pereira Sporting Academy. This move allows her to train at an academy directly managed by the club, ensuring she receives the closest possible supervision as she progresses.
The Path Forward
This is why we do what we do. We provide the environment, the coaching, and, crucially, the connection to the professional world.
To the young players currently in our ranks: Joana and Riley have shown what is possible with hard work and the right platform. To those looking for a place to develop: If you have the ambition to wear the Green and White at the highest level, this is where your journey begins.
Join us at the Academy. Your trial starts at our next training session!
UPCOMING EVENTS
OTHER IMPORTANT DATES
MAY
18–22 May: Week Without Walls (G6–G10)
20 May – 1:00–2:30 PM: Grade 4 & 5 Play
22 May: Primary Talent Show
22 May – 1:30–3:30 PM: STEAM Fair
25–29 May: Music Academy Performances (Second Semester)
28 May – 8:30 AM: Parent Workshop — Building Confidence (Primary)
28 May – 3:45–4:30 PM: Debate Showcase
29 May – 6:00 PM: IB2 Graduation Ceremony
JUNE
1 June (Morning): Primary Sports Day (Kindergarten–G2)
1 June – 2:30 PM: United Project Exhibition
2 June (Morning): Primary Sports Day (G3–G5)
3 June – 10:30 AM: Primary Concert
4 (Public Holiday) –5 June: School Closed both days.
DUKES EUROPE AWARDS 2026 CEREMONY

Our wonderful team loved gathering for the European Dukes Education Awards, celebrating alongside the dedicated staff who make our school a special place every day.
Huge congratulations to our New Staff Award of the Year winner, Mariana Alvarez, so incredibly well deserved, and a perfect encapsulation of your warmth, dedication, and positive impact on United Lisbon International School, a Duke´s Education establishment.
Commendations to all nominees for being recognized across their respective categories: Lucy Hems, Carolina Serra, and Nina Cashin. To be nominated is already an achievement and a meaningful recognition. Each of you demonstrates exceptional, caring leadership and a remarkable commitment to empowering those around you.
Moments like this highlight that a school is nurtured daily, not just by teachers, but by the entire community, in every quiet interaction, shared space, and daily challenge. Much of what we value is made possible by a vast network of unsung heroes who contribute selflessly, often without acknowledgement.
Thank you to Dukes Education for hosting such an event and for creating a space that celebrates not only achievement, but also the people and connections that make our community so special.
Our next Open Day will take place on 20 May at 10:00 and will last approximately two hours. The event is intended for families who would like to learn more about the school across all year groups.
The session will begin with opening remarks, followed by a short address from the Head of School, who will share insights into United Lisbon International School’s mission and vision.
This will be followed by a guided tour of the school, led by the admissions team and phase leaders, providing a closer look at our classrooms, facilities, and learning environments.
The morning will conclude with light refreshments, including snacks and coffee, as well as an opportunity for questions during an informal Q&A session in the library.
Top Universities in Portugal to study at next year

Portugal has emerged as a top-tier educational hub in Europe, outperforming many traditional favorites, Offering world-class, affordable education with an immersive cultural experience. Portugal provides excellent educational opportunities across a broad spectrum of fields, including engineering, the arts, and sciences. The international reputation of Portuguese universities is ascending, enhancing their capacity to attract global talent.
The University of Lisbon is ranked as Portugal's premier institution and largest university, frequently topping international lists. Situated in Lisbon, this institution boasts a comprehensive academic portfolio, high-impact research, extensive international networks, and a multicultural community. It consistently ranks among the top universities in the country and xontinues to be a top-ranked choice for both domestic and foreign students.
Another highly respected institution is University of Porto. With a stellar reputation in engineering, sciences, and health, this top-ranked, innovative university is recognized globally for its excellence, Students are also drawn to Porto’s magical atmosphere and lower cost of living compared to many other European cities.
University of Coimbra is one of the oldest universities in Europe and one of Portugal’s most historic institutions. Founded in 1290, it combines centuries of academic tradition with modern research and innovation. Its campus is recognized internationally and remains a symbol of Portuguese educational excellence.
NOVA University Lisbon is emerging as a globally recognized, premier institution, particularly acclaimed for its excellence in business, technology, and economics, with a rising reputation for fostering high international employability and engagement. Students pursuing expertise in engineering, science, and technology may also consider University of Minho and University of Aveiro. Both institutions are renowned for their cutting-edge research, pioneering innovation, and deep integration with industry partners. Portugal’s growing appeal extends beyond rankings. The nation offers a hospitable environment, competitive living expenses, strong student support systems, and an expanding range of English-taught courses. Prospective students for the upcoming academic year will find that Portugal offers a compelling blend of academic excellence and profound cultural enrichment.
While university selection is ultimately dictated by a student’s personal passions, professional ambitions, location preferences, and academic focus, these specific institutions stand out as premier choices for future-oriented education in Portugal.

Be sure to keep an eye out for our next newsletter on 1 June








