Learning at International Sharing School – Taguspark, in Lisbon, goes far beyond grades. Every day, I see our Middle Years Programme (MYP) students discovering how to think critically, act with empathy, and connect what they learn to the world around them. Education here is about shaping thoughtful, independent, and resilient young people—and that’s exactly what the Sharing Star Programme is designed to do.
Discovering Life and Culture in Portugal
One of the things I value most in our school is how wellbeing isn’t an “extra”—it’s the starting point. When students feel safe, supported, and seen, they learn with far more openness and curiosity.
Whether they’re sharing reflections in pastoral time, cheering for their house during activities, or working together on Service as Action projects, I see them learning empathy and responsibility in ways no textbook can teach.
These are the moments where they begin to understand themselves and the world around them a little more clearly.
The Sharing Star Programme and It’s Five Areas
The Sharing Star Programme ties this all together. It’s built on five areas that I believe prepare young people not just for school, but for life:
- Academic Excellence – Developing strong knowledge, study skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- Global Citizenship & Leadership – Understanding diversity, embracing responsibility, and leading with empathy.
- Creative Expression – Encouraging imagination, innovation, and artistic confidence.
- Life Skills & Outdoor Education – Fostering independence, resilience, and practical abilities through real-world experiences, while nurturing a connection with nature.
- Sports, Health & Wellbeing – Promoting physical fitness, teamwork, and a balanced lifestyle.
Watching students grow across these five areas is one of the most rewarding parts of my role. It allows us to guide them as whole individuals, not just learners of subjects.
Adventures that Shape Character and Create Life Long Memories
This year, our school community is launching something truly special: the Sharing Star Expedition. For five days, students from Lisbon, Madeira, and Algarve will come together for a journey designed around the five areas of the programme. Each day brings a new challenge—creative, physical, reflective, or service-oriented.
I can already imagine the friendships forming, the moments of self-discovery, and the pride students will feel as they realise they are capable of more than they ever imagined.
For our older students, these journeys extend even further. MYP 4 travels to Paris and MYP 5 to Seville, marking milestones of independence and cultural discovery.
I’ve seen how these trips can transform students—how navigating a new city or engaging with another culture reminds them of their own strength, curiosity, and maturity.
Learning Outside the Classroom
Some of the most powerful learning moments happen when students step beyond the classroom.
Whether they’re engaging with guest speakers, participating in community outings, debating at Model United Nations, performing in school productions, attending Music Academy sessions, competing in national and international tournaments, or taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, they are developing the skills that truly matter.
These experiences teach them how to communicate, collaborate, adapt, and persevere—skills that shape character far more than any test score.
Beyond Grades
As an educator, I’ve learned that true success isn’t measured only by academic results. It’s seen in the quiet moments of growth—when a student finds their voice in a debate, shows empathy in a service project, or perseveres through a challenge they once thought impossible. The Sharing Star Programme gives our students those moments. It allows them to explore who they are, what they value, and how they can make a difference.
What continues to amaze me is that when students engage in all these experiences, their academic performance also grows.
As they become more confident, more reflective, and more resilient, they approach their learning with greater purpose. And yes, the most interesting part is this: when we focus on developing the whole child, their grades improve naturally.
At International Sharing School – Taguspark, in Lisbon, we are preparing students for life, not just exams. And a life well lived begins with curiosity, compassion, confidence, and the courage to think independently—qualities that lead not only to stronger character, but ultimately to stronger academic results as well.
