Catarina is from Lisbon, Portugal, and has a strong background in Natural Sciences. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from ULisbon and a Master’s degree in Ecology and Animal Behaviour from Utrecht University in the Netherlands, where she observed chimpanzee behaviour at the animal sanctuary Stichting AAP. Additionally, she holds a PGCE from the University of Cumbria.

After her research experience, Catarina returned to Portugal to participate in a project at the Lisbon Zoo, marking the beginning of her career as an educator. It was during this time that she discovered her true passion for education. To further pursue this interest, she joined the International Sharing School in 2021 and is now serving as a STEAM Teacher and PYP Science Coordinator.