Headmaster’s address
By Titus Edge, Headmaster
A few months ago, while back in England, I found myself in discussion with some of my fellow countrymen, none of whom had ever visited Brazil. This is, of course, not unusual. Many British holidaymakers will regularly descend upon the resorts of southern Europe, or escape to the cities and plains of North America or attempt to discover themselves with travel through southeast Asia. But for most, Brazil (and indeed the entire South American continent) is a land of mystery, largely unknown, aside from football, beaches, carnivals, the Amazon rainforest, and Formula 1.
However, for me, Brazil should be best known for its people. The warmth, generosity, and optimism of so many individuals of all sorts of backgrounds is very striking to any visitor who spends any time in this country. Particularly in comparison to the cold reserve and emotional suppression usually associated with the British national character.
I offer this thought to underscore the importance of people and how their contributions, outlooks and attitudes to life should never be underestimated. As it is for nations, so it is for schools. Schools are about knowledge and learning, facts and exams, but above all, they are about people. Schools develop a young person’s character, nurturing confidence, compassion, integrity, and resilience. They also cultivate a
community of pupils, staff, parents, and alumni, bound by a network of common values and, very often, friendships.
I therefore pay tribute to all who have contributed to the successes of the academic year 2023-2024. We began with outstanding IB and IGCSE results, and I am optimistic about the upcoming exam grades for our Upper Sixth and Form 5. Another powerful endorsement came from the UK’s Independent Schools Inspectorate, which commended our efforts and standards. The inspection highlighted advancements in teaching, learning, safeguarding, and health and safety, ensuring a happy and safe environment for all pupils.
The inspection report, available on our website, also praised our commitment to inclusivity and diversity. In the academic year 2024-2025, we will welcome more international families, and our scholarship programme is expanding to 40 pupils next term. This is thanks to the community’s generosity and brings talent, flair, and fresh perspectives.
As many of you will know, the school has financially supported the scholarship programme in these early years of its development. I am proud to announce that, as we close in on our target of having 50 scholars (that’s 10% of our Senior School) by 2026, we will annually donate 3% of our revenues
to help finance scholarships. This should account for about half of the projected scholarships for the foreseeable future and will ensure that the benefits of this programme will endure for many generations of Pauleans yet to come.
These efforts reinforce our school as a community of people with a commitment to humanity at our heart. This is why I am so grateful for your support in excluding mobile phones at school, a policy we introduced at the start of the 2023-2024 academic year. By removing phones we engage and interact
with each other as people and extract ourselves, at least for a time, from the continual bombardment of messages, images and games that do nothing for our development as social, active and interactive individuals.
Our pupils and their families have demonstrated their humanity and generosity over the last year, from everyday acts of kindness to supporting charitable endeavours, including assisting with the relief efforts for recent floods in southern Brazil. These moments show us at our collective best, alongside the considerable individual achievements of our young people. This year, we’ve enjoyed outstanding stage performances and excellent results in sports, with successes in volleyball, basketball, and futsal. Students have also engaged in a wide range of other activities like rowing, Model United Nations, and participation in the Duke of Edinburgh International Award.
None of this is possible of course without our dedicated staff, whose commitment and professionalism are fundamental to pupils’ growth and happiness. I therefore record my heartfelt thanks to all the staff for their hard work and dedication throughout this academic year.
My thanks go to all those who generously volunteer their time to support the school. Within our student body, our dedicated prefects, led by our School Captain and ViceCaptains, Alexa, Adriano and Sara, have done an excellent job. I also extend a special thank you to the PTA Committee for their tremendous efforts, with this year’s International Day showcasing just a glimpse of their extensive contributions. Finally, I express my deepest gratitude to all the parents who have supported the school and made this year such a success.
Now is a time to be proud of your children for, whatever has passed and whatever is to come, they are and will always be true Pauleans.
Words from the Official Director
By Pedro Paulo Siqueira, Diretor Oficial
The highlight of the 2023-24 school year was the completion of our first Upper 6 class under the new “Ensino Médio”. I would like to thank Mr Edge for all the support given to such a transition, as well as Miss Luane Andrade, School Secretary, and Mrs. Vitória Lago, School Junior Secretary.
PTA Report
The academic year, in short, proved to be another success, with pupils going to competitive universities abroad and locally.
I congratulate the entire St. Paul’s School community for carrying out the school’s new integrated educational curriculum.
By Iara Rembado, Chair of the PTA Committee
The 2023-24 PTA committee had a fantastic year. With the ongoing support of our community we’ve overseen great initiatives, such as sponsoring talks for parents and organising a welcome breakfast for new parents. We have also fostered communication between parents and the school, an achievement that was made significantly easier by having our own school app.
In the first term, we had the second-hand uniform sale and our traditional Christmas Bazaar. This term, our fundraising events culminated with our superb International Day. We are very proud to be the first PTA group to have officially embraced Fundação St. Paul’s as our main charity, thus making our school more inclusive and diverse. British Society and Mão Amiga have also benefited from our partnership. Thanks to our generous donors and sponsors, as well as the full engagement of parents who volunteered, we were able to raise funds for the three charities mentioned above, all the while showcasing our community spirit at its best.
I’d like to thank the whole PTA team for their positive energy and commitment. It has been a great honour and privilege to serve as chair of the PTA. Finally, a special thank you to the whole leadership team, especially Mr Edge who guides our children with kindness and extreme professionalism.
2023-24
A special visit at St. Paul’s
October 2023 we had the honour of welcoming Dr Jane Goodall, one of the most inspiring primatologists and anthropologists in the world, to St. Paul’s School. Several of our Pre-Prep, Prep and Senior pupils had the opportunity to hear about Jane’s extraordinary life and career in her own words. It was an unforgettable and wonderful experience!
Over 60 years ago, Jane Goodall first arrived on the shores of what is today Tanzania’s Gombe National Park to begin her pioneering chimpanzee behavioural studies. Over the next six decades, this research helped transform scientific understanding of the relationship between humans and the rest of the animal kingdom. Today, Jane’s mission has
evolved into a quest to empower every individual to make the world a better place for people, other animals, and the planet we all share.
During her visit to St. Paul’s, Jane led a storytelling moment with our Pre-Prep 3s and shared her life experiences. Then, she had an inspiring talk with our older pupils - from Prep 4 to Upper 6 - about our individual roles in changing the world we live in. She used this opportunity to invite pupils to be a part of her project Roots & Shoots, which aims to empower young people to affect positive change in their communities.
Dr Goodall also got to meet our eco-warriors in the Prep School and St. Paul’s Sustainability Committee.
Dr Goodall met pupils across school, and also met our Sustainability team
NURTURING HUMANITY:
St. Paul’s Education Conference
In March, educators from across São Paulo and Brazil came together for St. Paul’s 6th Education Conference: Nurturing Humanity. This year’s edition aimed to help delegates discover how to nurture creativity beyond the classroom and harness the transformative power of kindness to foster stronger connections.
The conference welcomed over 300 delegates and featured six keynote speakers, each bringing a unique perspective and expertise to the table.
The event was kicked off by Tamires Gama, who set the tone for the conference by emphasizing AI as a valuable tool and advocating for ethical considerations in its integration into education. George Peterkin wrapped up the first day with insights into addressing eating disorders within educational settings, drawing from his extensive experience with his company “Mind Your Health.”
On Saturday, Matthew Savage shone light on student well-being and how we can use street data to get to know the pupils deeply. Mark Grist captivated the audience
by describing his journey as poet and rap battler, demonstrating the transformative power of creativity in education.
Finally, to conclude the event, Tracey Campbell shared her personal journey from rebellious student to teacher and author, urging delegates to reflect on their roles in shaping students’ lives. Stuart Lawrence concluded the conference by outlining the traits of the “World’s Best Teacher” and sharing about his life and lessons learned.
In addition to keynote speeches, delegates participated in workshops prepared by speakers and sponsors. Notable among these was Cambridge International’s remote session by Professor Hilary Cremin, who shared insights from her research on conflict transformation and peacebuilding in schools.
A heartfelt congratulations is extended to all teachers and staff who contributed to the success of the conference, whether through organising sessions, facilitating workshops, or providing invaluable support behind the scenes.
A heartfelt congratulations is extended to all teachers and staff who contributed to the success of the conference
Well-being Hub and new initiatives, a strong commitment
By Dr Laura Mack, School Counsellor and Mental Health Lead
Reflecting on the academic year 2023-2024, it’s clear that the inauguration of the Wellbeing Hub marked a significant milestone for our school community. This dedicated space, strategically located next to the Foyer, has not only provided a calm and safe environment for pupils and staff but also symbolizes our school’s strong commitment to mental health, wellbeing, and safeguarding.
The Wellbeing Team, including Mrs Cabral, Mrs Paganelli, Mrs Mahfud, and Mrs Oliveira, has been instrumental, enabling us to effectively support a larger number of pupils, families, and staff members.
One of the noteworthy developments has been the implementation of the WellBeing Pass by the IT department. This innovative tool allows us to track and monitor the usage of the Wellbeing Hub, providing quantitative insights into its impact.
COLLABORATION
The Well-being Hub also featured an external listener to provide a safe space for staff to express their thoughts and concerns. This type of initiative can help reduce the stigma around seeking help and promote overall wellbeing within the organisation. The response from staff has been excellent and we look forward to continuing our We Care programme for staff by welcoming Mr Daniel Rehfeld in next academic year. Additionally, Dr. Schiller’s monthly psychoanalytical study group for staff also demonstrated a commendable commitment to continuous professional development and support.
Collaboration with the Pastoral Teams of both the Junior and Senior School has been integral to our approach. Together, we have successfully planned and implemented targeted interventions that cater to the diverse needs of our pupils. This includes SEL intervention groups and individual
The monthly SEL Talks brought valuable insighs to our community
check-ins, ensuring comprehensive support for our students’ well-being and development.
Collaboration with Fundação St. Paul’s has been robust. Mrs. Paganelli serves as the scholars’ mentor, conducting individual check-ins and actively participating in our monthly well-being sessions.
I am encouraged by the progress we have made in promoting mental health and wellbeing within our school. The Wellbeing Hub stands as a testament to our ongoing dedication to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for all members of our community.
SEL TALKS
Our monthly SEL Talks have become a cornerstone of our commitment to working in partnership with families, providing valuable insights and support on crucial topics.
We have had specialists such as Dr. Rogério Lerner, who delivered a talk entitled “Adolescence: Neurological & Psychological Factors”, while Dr. Paulo Schiller encouraged important reflections regarding the rise in ADHD diagnoses. Dr Schiller’s approach prompted many parents to consider broader societal influences and the complexities inherent within medical diagnoses. These types of discussions are crucial in fostering a deeper understanding of mental health issues beyond superficial labels.
Another highlight was the talk by the leaders of “Movimento Desconecta” leaders, a family-led initiative advocating for delayed introduction of mobile phones and social media to children. Their proposal aligns with our
school’s cell phone policy, emphasising responsible and mindful technology use among young people.
These SEL Talks are invaluable opportunities for our school community. They foster open dialogue, help dispel myths, and empower parents with knowledge that enhances their understanding of their children’s development and behaviour. Moving forward, these discussions will continue to be instrumental in our mission to cultivate a supportive and informed school environment.
LOOKING AHEAD: FOCUS ON INCLUSION
Hosting a SEL talk with Carola Videira in May and initiating a partnership with Turma do Jiló to support inclusivity efforts are significant steps for St. Paul’s. This partnership further underscores the school’s commitment of creating a safe and nurturing place where every individual, regardless of background or personal characteristics, can feel a sense of belonging.
Lastly, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mrs. Clarke for our strong partnership over the past three years. She has left a significant legacy in the areas of Safeguarding and Well-being. It is a great responsibility and honour to succed her as Designated Safeguarding Lead. I am committed to seamlessly integrating Safeguarding, Mental Health, and Well-being through our whole school initiatives.
Through these efforts, St Paul’s is not only enhancing its educational offerings but also setting a leading example of how schools can foster diversity, equity, and inclusion.
“Movimento Desconecta” talked to parents about the importance in restringing the use of mobile phones for children
Scholarship Programme: from strength to strength
This year marked a significant milestone for the St. Paul’s Foundation as our Scholarship Programme reached full representation across all Senior School year groups. This year also saw a record number of applicants for our Selection Process, and we continued to engage with our community through various events. Here are some of the highlights from the past 12 months.
SCHOLARS’ JOURNEY OF TRANSFORMATIONAND SUCCESS
We welcomed 11 new scholars this year, bringing our total to 28 from Form 1 to Upper 6. Their dedication was evident in the Prize Giving ceremony, where 18 scholars received 23 awards, including two special recognitions.
Reaching the end of their road as Lions, we bid farewell to our foundation leavers Antonio, Elisa, and Gregorio, who joined as scholars in Form 4 in 2020. They have now graduated from St. Paul’s and are looking forward to exciting new chapters in their lives.
STAIRWAY TO THE SCHOLARSHIP: THE SELECTION PROCESS
Our rigorous 18-month Selection Process offers a unique opportunity to witness the growth and transformation of our candidates. The 2023-2024 Selection Process began with a record 185 applicants, with 32 students advancing to the first term of the Preparation Course.
We introduced an innovative change by splitting the psychological assessment into two stages, enhancing our analysis of each candidate. During the Preparation Course, students undertook a comprehensive English immersion course at Cultura Inglesa and St. Paul’s. They attended classes in various subjects, led by around 40 volunteer teachers, allowing them to experience the St. Paul’s curriculum and British culture. The course provided nearly 80 hours of classes over the year, including classes in English language, Culture, and Current Affairs.
In August 2024, 15 new scholars will join the school—the largest group the Foundation has welcomed so far. This brings
New 2024 scholars are welcomed by the Headmaster
Scan here to read the Foundation 2022-23 Annual Report
us to a total of 40 full scholarship pupils, moving us closer to the school’s centenary goal of 50 scholars enrolled by 2026.
ENGAGING COMMUNITY EVENTS: ENHANCING SUPPORT AND UNITY
The foundation launched the Old Pauleans’ Quiz Night, a lively gathering for alumni, their families, and friends. This event not only rekindled old friendships but also raised funds to support our Scholarship Programme. Due to its success, a second edition was held in the second term.
The International Day event further demonstrated the strong alignment within our community, with the Foundation becoming one of the main supported charities. Our scholars and their families played an active role in organizing and running the British Fête, leading activities for the children.
The unwavering support of the whole St. Paul’s community has been crucial to the success of our Scholarship Programme. To our donors and volunteers, your generosity and dedication have profoundly impacted our scholars, enabling them to thrive academically and personally. Together, we are building a brighter future and fostering a diverse and inclusive community that embodies the St. Paul’s School values.
A
little bit about the St. Paul’s Foundation...
... Mission
To transform lives through a world-class international education that ensures access to an exceptional curriculum, unparalleled pastoral support, all within a safe and nurturing environment.
... Vision
To enrich perspectives and empower futures. As our scholars benefit from all that St. Paul’s has to offer, they, in turn, contribute to further enriching the vibrant school environment and the wider community. Through this exchange, our pupils are ready to face future challenges in life.
... Objective
Our goal is to provide access for talented young people aged between 11 and 14, living in São Paulo, to an excellent international education, granting full scholarships to families who cannot afford a school like St. Paul’s. We value flair and determination in various areas of life, in addition to academic talent.
A farewell for our three scholars, Gregório, Elisa and Antonio, who joined St. Paul’s in 2020 and graduated this year
Our scholars and their families actively participated in International Day.
A year to be proud of
Academic Report 2023-24
Together with over 192,000 other pupils across the globe, our Upper Sixth leavers (Class of 2024) celebrate their excellent results in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
This year’s cohort of boys and girls have done brilliantly with a 100% pass rate and 75 pupils achieving the diploma. The average points score of St. Paul’s pupils is 35.4 points, compared with 34.7 last year. The global average is 30.32 points.
Around 22% of the individual grades were 7 and we are especially proud of our 18 high fliers who scored 40 or more points from a maximum of 45. Across the board the results were excellent. The top score in each subject is 7
and some subjects have done exceptionally well with very high proportions of 6 and 7 grades. They all deserve special congratulations for their efforts and success.
In August 2024, the 2023-24 Form 5s celebrated their Cambridge IGCSE results - over half the results being A*-A grades, and 22% being the very highest A* grade. 75% of the grades are in the range A*-B. We are particularly proud of those 9 students who achieved all A*s & A grades in their subjects; a really wonderful achievement.
JOIN US IN CELEBRATING ALL PUPILS ON THEIR SUCCESS.
Cambridge IGCSEs
22% A* 75 76 25% 35.4 55% A*-A
IB results pupils candidates of the cohort scored over 40 points was the school average*
*compared with the 30.32 points world average
Empowering technology
By David Towse, Director of Educational Technology
As we reflect on the past year, we are proud of the strides we have made and excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. We are committed to creating a lasting impact on our students’ lives.
As the Director of Educational Technology, my role is not just to keep pace with technological advancements but to lead the way in integrating these technologies into our educational practices. To ensure we remain at the cutting edge of educational technology, we focus on:
• Fostering a culture of continuous learning;
• Implementing pilot programmes and gathering feedback;
• Promoting collaboration and knowledge sharing;
• Staff and student empowerment;
• Strategic partnerships;
• Enhanced technology integration & innovation.
Our journey commences with a bold vision to create a dynamic, sector-leading learning environment where technology empowers students and staff to excel, innovate and contribute to a better future. This is not just about using the right tools, but about nurturing creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking skills.
At the heart of our approach is a robust technological integration framework for our teachers. Through personalised professional development sessions, teachers are equipped with the skills and confidence to integrate technology into their curriculum effectively. Whether it’s creating digital art on an iPad or collaborating on a research project in OneNote, our pupils are encouraged to think innovatively, fostering a sense of inclusivity and value within our school community.
This year’s Innovation Week in Senior School was one of the highlights of our academic calendar. During the week, traditional timetables are set aside as students tackle realworld challenges using a design thinking approach. This
Technology is here to support, enhance, and improve the learning experience. It’s not just about adding another screen to the classroom but about using technology in a meaningful way, such as through interactive learning apps and virtual field trips, that enhances learning outcomes.
method encourages them to empathise, design, ideate, prototype, and test their solutions, promoting a mindset of innovation and resilience. This week serves as a catalyst for innovation, allowing pupils to apply the skills and knowledge they’ve gained throughout the year in a real-world context.
Our dual recognition as an Apple Distinguished School and a Microsoft Showcase School underscores our commitment to learning through educational technology. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, we are paving the way for our students and staff to be at the forefront of future advancements.
So, what does this all mean for our digital strategy moving forward?
It means more integration of existing technologies, such as AI-powered learning, virtual and augmented reality, and digital collaboration tools, into our curriculum. It means more support for teachers and students to ensure they can effectively use these technologies. And it means plenty of opportunities to experiment and explore these technologies in a safe and supportive environment.
The year in the Junior School
By Amy Clifford, Head of Junior School
Looking back over another year in Junior School always fills the team with an enormous sense of pride. Although our school terms, themes, festivals and celebrations mean that the calendar has a recognisable rhythm, no two years at St. Paul’s are ever the same. Our school values of kindness, inclusion, responsibility, adventure, aspiration and resilience guide our decision-making surrounding pastoral care and curriculum, and the culture of our school is palpable in the way that children interact with each other and are supported to understand their community and the world around them. This year has seen further strengthening of a cohesive Junior School curriculum and it has been fantastic to see children making such powerful links in their learning.
This year saw the finishing touches to the Junior School redevelopment project that began in 2017. The new Prep School Technology, Art and Design laboratory (TAD Lab) was completed and is now a place where children’s creativity and design thinking can reach new heights. Gallery spaces throughout the Junior School have been created and children now have the chance to share and exhibit their artwork in inviting and fresh areas. Creativity is at the heart of our curriculum, and it has been fantastic to see the children producing such detailed
This year has seen further strengthening of a cohesive Junior School curriculum and it has been fantastic to see children making such powerful links in their learning.
work in performance, design, technology and art, as well as in language and literature. Our performances, plays, exhibitions, museums and galleries showcase the learning that the children gain and the meaningful contexts that they share together in school.
I hope that you enjoy looking through the Junior School pages for 2023-2024 that capture just a slice of the fun that we have every day!
Pre-Prep Open Learning
Open Learning allows Pre-Prep pupils to apply and consolidate their learning and the various concepts taught and worked during group times. This year they had the opportunity to explore all areas of learning both indoors and outdoors by joining in the various activities that were carefully planned and designed to help them develop important skills for their learning. During these sessions, they could interact with their friends and teachers from other classes and learn in meaningful ways by having great fun. Well done, Pre-Prep pupils!
Themed Weeks
Themed weeks are a highlight of our academic year, offering pupils a unique and engaging way to deepen their learning while having fun. These special weeks bring together the whole school community and focus on important topics; engaging pupils and adults in learning that goes much beyond the classroom.
Our Reading Week is an old time favourite! The school transforms into a hub of literary excitement with activities that encourage students to explore new books, share their favourite stories, and even meet authors. We encourage parents and children to snuggle up and read books together, celebrating the joy of a shared story. Our mystery readers are also a show on their own! Parents go above and beyond to disguise themselves while the children have to guess who is reading to them.
Throughout our Maths Week children are invited to play a range of games, puzzles and challenges that help them practise a range of skills. Children must use problem-solving skills, creativity, and critical thinking to solve these problems – proving that maths goes far beyond just numbers! This fun week fosters a positive attitude towards the subject, helping students to build confidence and enjoy the subject.
The Health, Safety and Fitness Week is a fantastic opportunity for students to learn about the importance of taking care of their well-being. Through interactive workshops, informative talks, and hands-on activities, students gain valuable knowledge about staying safe and healthy. They are also invited to put their knowledge to the test by preparing balanced and varied meals at lunchtime!
For Arts Week, colours and shapes are everywhere.
This is the most vibrant week of the calendar with pupils unleashing their creativity and expressing themselves through a range of media. The Junior School transforms itself into a walk-through gallery, and proudly displaying the children’s artworks. Arts Week not only highlights the importance of the arts in education but also helps students discover new talents and passions.
Trips and Experiences
At St. Paul’s, trips are an opportunity to bring learning to life. These hands-on experiences deepen pupils’ understanding of various subjects and create lasting memories that enrich their educational journey.
Residential trips are a hallmark of the Prep School, helping to strengthen bonds within year groups and offering unique learning experiences. This academic year, our Prep 2 pupils embarked on an exciting adventure to Sítio do Carroção, where they delved into the worlds of science, geography, and history. Meanwhile, our Prep 3 ventured into the natural world visiting Rep Lago to gain insights into ecology, plant development, and the water cycle. They also enjoyed thrilling activities like zip lining and trampolining.
In addition to these residential trips, our pupils had the chance to learn more about Brazil’s rich cultural heritage with visits to the Museu AfroBrasil, Museu das Culturas Indígenas, and various landmarks around São Paulo. These trips allowed them to connect with the country’s history and culture in a meaningful way.
We believe experiences such as these play a crucial role in pupil development by offering them a chance to learn outside the classroom and see the world from a new perspective. They return with not only knowledge, but a sense of adventure and a deeper connection with their peers.
Junior School pupils (and staff) on the stage - plays and performances
Every year, our pupils have the chance to showcase their talents through a series of performances for the community. These performances are a testament to the progress and skills they’ve developed throughout the year, both inside and outside the classroom.
This year, our Pre-prep pupils delighted audiences with charming and creative end-of-year shows.
Our Prep 3 to 5 Drama Club also had a stellar year, offering older Junior School pupils a chance to delve into the world of theatre. Through this club, pupils were introduced to staging techniques, teamwork, self-expression, and body awareness. Their hard work culminated in the performance of Murder at Haynes Manor, a comical short play that was a
hit with the audience.
But it wasn’t just our pupils who shone on stage. Our dedicated staff also joined in the fun, putting on a pantomime inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Pupils were thrilled to see their teachers take on new roles and the audience was very engaged!
It’s always inspiring to see our pupils express themselves and showcase their talents to the community. These performances not only provide an opportunity to celebrate their achievements but also help them learn more about themselves, foster stronger connections with their peers, and share their growth with their parents. We look forward to many more memorable performances next year.
Partnership with parents
This academic year has been a shining example of the strength and importance of our partnership with parents, many of whom actively participated in numerous activities. These collaborations enrich our school community and provide invaluable experiences for our children.
One of the highlights, as always, was our Stay and Learn sessions. These much anticipated sessions are an opportunity for pupils to invite their parents into their world, showing them how they spend their days in the classroom and playground. Parents were able to join in their routines, participate in their favourite activities, and experience firsthand the joy and excitement that fills our school environment.
Beyond these sessions, our parents were enthusiastic participants in several activities during our themed weeks throughout the year. For our Arts Evening, parents showcased their unique talents and creativity, engaging pupils in activities like candle-making, rhinestone pattern crafting, and engraving.
Health, Safety, and Fitness Week saw parents rise to the challenge by joining their children in the Run a Mile initiative. Another favourite was the Mystery Readers initiative during Reading Week. Parents delighted pupils by coming dressed in fun and elaborate costumes, keeping the children on their toes as they guessed who was behind the disguise.
We are incredibly grateful for the collaboration and enthusiasm our parents bring to every school initiative. Their active participation strengthens the bond between home and school, and helps our pupils feel more confident and connected in their learning journey.
Pre-Prep Arts: exploring creativity and perseverance
By Julia Ferreira, Pre-Prep Art Teacher
This year has been an incredible journey of creativity and exploration for the Pre-Prep pupils. They have blossomed, learned, and expressed themselves in the most imaginative ways.
From the very first day, the pupils displayed a natural curiosity and an eagerness to dive into the world of art. They embraced every opportunity to experiment with various materials, techniques, and concepts. Whether painting, drawing, sculpting, or crafting, each project was approached with enthusiasm and a sense of wonder.
Through their creative endeavours both inside and outside of the art room, they have learned the importance of creativity, self-expression, and perseverance. Their ability to think outside the box and tackle challenges with an open mind has been truly inspiring.
The art room has been a lively hub of activity, filled with laughter, collaboration, and countless masterpieces. Each pupil’s unique voice and perspective has enriched the artistic community. We hope they are all incredibly proud of their achievements and excited to continue to grow and thrive in the years to come.
A Masterpiece of a Year: Prep School Art in Full Bloom
By Ana Leticia Hecker, Prep Art teacher
What a spectacular year it has been for our artists in Prep school! Through each term, pupils have embarked on an exciting journey of artistic discovery, exploring a vast array of personal interests, materials, techniques, and the works of diverse artists.
From vibrant drawings and expressive paintings to imaginative sculptures and intricate textiles - and everything in between - our pupils have unlocked new perspectives in both 2D and 3D art forms. As they have experimented and created, so too have we witnessed the beautiful rise of their unique artistic voices and styles.
This year has been a canvas for personal growth, with our young artists developing self-confidence, embracing risk, solving problems creatively, and mastering the art of collaboration. They have come to appreciate the vital stages of the artistic process - planning, researching, discussing, and exercising patience - as they bring their visions to life.
A year of growth in the Music Department
By Ana Kristina Fabris Jankov, Head of Music – Junior School
This academic year has been a fantastic one for the Junior School’s music department, marked by a significant achievements in musical performances, instrument lessons, LCM exam participation, and pupil enthusiasm across the board.
A major highlight was the launch of the Prep Class Orchestra. Prep 3 pupils were chosen to be the first-ever pupils at St. Paul’s to learn how to play a string instrument, like the violin and cello, as part of their curricular music lessons. This initiative not only enhanced their musical skills but also boosted their cognitive development, discipline, and teamwork. Pupils’ enthusiasm was evident during the Prep 3 Orchestra concert, where each class showcased playing technique and performed four songs.
Beyond the immediate benefits, the Prep Class Orchestra”lays the groundwork for a future senior orchestra, where more advanced pupils can perform together in various school events and elevate their talents to new heights.
Another highlight was the impressive performance of the Junior School choirs and ensembles during the biannual Choirs and Ensembles Concert and International Day. Pupils impressed both the school community and guests with their dedication and talent. Growing interest was also seen in the Prep 4 and Prep 5 shows, where pupils displayed a level of commitment often found in more experienced musicians.
St. Paul’s remains the only London College of Music (LCM) examination centre in South America. This year saw a significant rise in the number of pupils opting for private music lessons with skilled staff and visiting teachers. As a result, a record number of pupils participated in the LCM instrument examinations, with approximately 170 pupils enrolled.
Throughout the school year, it is important to recognise and appreciate the commitment and dedication shown by all pupils. Many demonstrated remarkable enthusiasm and progress in their curriculum music lessons, learning to appreciate music, compose, sing, read music, and play various instruments. Collaborative projects were made with Portuguese department where pupils made audio books, narrating the story and composing the sounds.
The achievements this year underscore the fundamental importance of music education, highlighting its impact on personal development and self-expression.
From the Head of Senior School
By Martina Oparaocha, Head of Senior School
2023 to 2024 has been an interesting and eventful year. There have been many accomplishments by our pupils and our staff, academically, pastorally and through the extracurricular offer.
Form 4 and Lower 6 have positively embarked on new courses whilst Form 5 and Upper 6 have moved onto the second year of the IGCSE and IB respectively. The staggered start to the term was a great success as Form 1 managed to become better acquainted with the ways of the Senior School; the lunchtime routine, the wise use of the locker, and how to swiftly move from the academic to the main building. It was lovely to see how successfully data was used to help pupils understand themselves as learners. They were able to reflect on their progress, review strategies by working collegiately, and support each other throughout the academic year.
With the arrival of the university applications period, the team worked diligently to ensure excellent offers materialised for the Upper 6. The pressure of the exams, both internal and external, was evident at some points in the year, but our pupils were well-prepared. We look forward to receiving some excellent results in July and August. We have seen pupils mature and develop into driven, ambitious individuals who respect the school values.
In the extracurricular programme, numbers for the Duke of Edinburgh Award and the Model United Nations continue to be healthy. We saw rowing grow from strength to strength while the introduction of sailing shows how keen our pupils are to get on the water. Through enrichment and CAS, pupils demonstrated their social responsibility and enthusiastically took advantage of opportunities to make their impact felt in a positive way in São Paulo and beyond. We enjoyed the Wonderland play, which once again was an exceptional performance worthy of Broadway. The year ended with the Climate Change Project and the innovation weeks. These events showed our pupils pushing the boundaries by learning new techniques and gaining new knowledge as they showcased their skills.
Much time and energy has been dedicated to improving and developing several initiatives. Ms Ashman and Dr Dicks worked tirelessly with the Heads of Faculty and the Heads of Department to improve the use of data, enhance teaching and learning within their areas, and embed high quality strategies.
Mr. Bishop and Mrs Fregonesi worked in partnership on our pastoral care programme, which is centred on developing the whole pupil by keeping in mind their well-being as well as their academic progress. With the support of the tutor teams and
the Heads of Year, they were able to work proactively to flag potential issues before they developed. The team signposted areas of support and worked closely with families to help our young people go out into the world and meet the next stages of their lives with confidence and enthusiasm.
Dr. Hallinan and the University and Careers team have overseen an extensive programme that has helped open the eyes of our pupils to global possibilities and opportunities, encouraging them to always aim high, remain optimistic and realistic.
Mr. Sutton has been passionate about the enrichment programme and its potential to drive pupil imagination, encourage social responsibility, and spark discussions on the many ways to have a positive impact.
Our Heads of Faculty, Heads of Department and Heads of Year are a vital part of the structure of our school, and we are fortunate to have talented individuals who work hard to ensure we are always moving forward and seeking ways to do better. They are supported by our excellent teachers. They not only have the progress of our pupils at the forefront of their minds, but also consistently engage with them as individuals in order to understand them better and help them achieve their full potential.
The administration team is the heart of the school. This includes Senior Secretaries and Human Resources team. Davinni Gomes Barboza looks after everybody and makes it look easy. Even in the busiest of times, she stops to take care of parents, pupils and staff with such patience.
I would also like to thank our Senior PTA. Who were ably led by Mrs Rembado, chair of the PTA. They have been our
advisors, supporters and advocates throughout the year, successfuly managing to represent the parent body while remaining champions for the school. For the parents, we appreciate the support that you give us, the understanding that you show, and the partnership we have in raising our children. We know it’s not easy. We know what we as educators can be like and we feel your support.
Turning to pupils, we are fortunate to have a group that embraces the values of the school and fully contributes to the community atmosphere at St. Paul’s. Here, the focus is not just on academic performance, but also centred on the feeling of belonging that comes with the recognition of social responsibility and the need to go out and do better. We see this every day in our pupils. We see it in their collaboration, collegiate way of working, and the willingness to make suggestions and affect change. It is also visible in the respect with which they treat their teachers, all of the members of staff working at the school and their peers.
The future is bright, and I’m encouraged by the community vision and the developments that we are seeing around the school; not only in terms of food quality, the field, and the curriculum offer, but also in the community’s aspirations. I am privileged to be the Head of Senior School and surrounded by self-confessed Pauleans, who are aspirational and, above all, kind. It is truly the best job in the world. I look forward to our continuing progress in teaching and learning, safeguarding the wellbeing of our young people and tirelessly seeking ways to do better. To be better is to never forget that greatness is born of inspiration.
2023-24 prefects
Duke of Edinburgh Award Expeditions
By Fabio Almeida, DofE Coordinator
A record number of pupils joined the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) in the academic year 2023-24 and we continue our work to widen access to participation. Our annual statistics reveal that 60 pupils started their DofE - which represents 75% of our Form 4 cohort. More than 150 pupils are actively doing their DofE (nearly half of the school’s 14-18 years old pupils), and the number of new Gold Award starts increased by 50% with awards achieved also up by 25%.
Last year, I was delighted to take over the leadership of the DofE coordination from Mr Zsigmond, who successfully led the programme for a couple of years and increased the number of participants by completing a strategic plan to make it more accessible for even more pupils. Mr Zsigmond has inspired hundreds of pupils who had the opportunity to complete the programme with him over the years, being not only a role model but embodying the principles of the DofE.
Every year, the DofE inspires hundreds of pupils in our school, to explore who they are, grow in confidence, and develop the skills they need to successfully navigate life. We help them build a lifelong belief in themselves, supporting
them to take on their own challenges, follow their passions, and discover talents they never knew they had.
In our school, the DofE is open to any young person aged 14-24. Participants build their own programme by choosing activities and a cause to volunteer for. The DofE is structured into three levels which increase in difficulty and duration: Bronze, Silver, and Gold. The main differences between the award levels are the minimum length of time it takes to complete the programme, how challenging it is, and the minimum age you can start. There are four main sections of a DofE programme: Volunteering, Physical, Skills, and Expedition. At Gold level, participants will also complete a Residential section.
Looking ahead, we are continuing to implement a threeyear strategic plan together with our CAS IB programme and with the support of school. The aim is to establish new partnerships with local organisations, businesses, and community groups to provide different opportunities for participants to develop skills, and engage in physical activities and service projects.
Finally, we plan to incorporate new activities that match with our participants’ diverse interests and talents, such as digital media, entrepreneurship, and environmental conservation projects aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Thank you to our incredible team of 43 volunteers and leaders who are the driving force behind everything we do and make our work possible! Your commitment, energy and motivations are the reasons so many young people have the life-changing chance to do DofE.
Community service done by Adriano Yazigi, Lower 6 pupil
A new and exciting year for MUN
By Natalia Lima, History and Brazilian Social Studies Teacher & Director of MUN
The 2023-24 academic year has been a remarkable journey for me, as the new MUN Director. Running a pupil-led club is always a joy and a challenge, and it is core to our teaching philosophy to witness pupils grow and thrive by taking ownership of their learning. MUN exemplifies this at the most extraordinary level.
This year has been filled with vibrant trips and events. Attending The British School RJ Model United Nations (TBSRJMUN) in September 2023 with a delegation of 19 pupils and one chair was a standout moment. Watching pupils lead committees as chairs, actively participate as delegates, discover their limits and strengths, and learn from their experiences was inspiring. Our delegates’ efforts throughout the semester culminated in them winning Best School Delegation at MUNicks 2024 – heartfelt congratulations to all who attended!
Brazil Model United Nations (BRAMUN), the largest and most prestigious MUN conference in Brazil, was another highlight. Our delegation of 15 students demonstrated exceptional learning, commitment, and perseverance. They not only won several prizes but also had the honour of seeing two of our pupils appointed as chairs for the next edition. The MUN club connects different year groups and encourages pupils to develop a wide range of skills, from public speaking
and research, to debate and empathy. Understanding problems and devising solutions are some of the invaluable skills students develop through MUN.
The pinnacle of our year was undoubtedly organising our own conference, SPsMUN, in February 2024. This experience truly highlighted how dedication and hard work can lead to tremendous rewards. Organising SpsMUN was a complex challenge that necessitated regular Tuesday meetings to organise and select the committees and delegates. Throughout the process, it was essential we to maintained communication both with different schools and within our own, cand onnected all areas of the school from Sodexo to SLT. Our Secretariat met the challenge with grace, organising the most outstanding conference I have ever seen. MUN conferences foster critical thinking, diplomacy, teamwork, leadership, and a profound understanding of global issues, and SPsMUN showcased all of these elements brilliantly.
Reflecting on the past year fills me with immense pride, and I am excited about the year ahead. Our club is growing in both the number of members and reaching new heights in the quality of work, level of discussion, depth research, and displays of hard work and kindness. Let’s elevate MUN at St. Paul’s to even more extraordinary levels.
Different moments of MUN during this academic year
St. Paul’s pupils in a Global Exchange Programme
By Lee Sutton, Head of Broader Curriculum & Enrichment
This academic year of 2023-24, St. Paul’s had the incredible opportunity to participate in a Global Exchange programme with Downe House, a prestigious girls’ school in England. The experience has been nothing short of amazing, providing our pupils with unique educational and cultural experiences that have broadened their horizons and created lasting friendships. With space for only four girls to participate, two from Form 4 and two from Lower 6th - it was extremely tough to choose from the more than 50 applications we received. After several interviews with the school’s leadership, Sara Lawrence Bueno, Isabella Anselmo, Alma Hemnani and Maria Eduarda Zurita Guedes were selected to represent St. Paul’s - and what an amazing job they did too!
The exchange programme allowed our pupils to immerse themselves in a new environment, experience the British education system and participate in various extracurricular activities. From engaging in classroom discussions to exploring the historical landmarks of England, our pupils embraced every moment, bringing back valuable insights and perspectives to our school community.
One of the highlights of the exchange was the sense of togetherness, kindness and mutual respect that developed between our pupils, their families, and their Downe House
peers. This partnership has not only enhanced our pupils’ academic experiences but also enriched their personal growth, teaching them the importance of global citizenship and cultural appreciation.
The success of this year’s exchange has paved the way for exciting future partnerships. We are thrilled to announce that we will be extending the Global Exchange programme to include Radley College for the boys, while continuing our partnership with Downe House for the girls. These collaborations promise to provide even more enriching opportunities for our pupils, allowing them to experience diverse educational settings and make connections with peers from around the world.
We look forward to the continued success of the Global Exchange programme and the incredible experiences it will bring to our pupils.
As we reflect on this year’s achievements, we are reminded of the importance of such programmes in preparing our pupils for a globalized world. The friendships formed, lessons learned, and experiences shared will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on their lives.
Here’s to another year of successful exchanges, new friendships, unforgettable memories and lasting legacy.
Our Downe House and St. Paul’s pupils together!
Empowering Through Coding: ‘Juntos na Tecnologia’
“Juntos na Tecnologia”, a CAS project started by Luca and Henrique, two of our Sixth Form pupils, was among the remarkable pupil-led initiatives launched this year. By starting it, the pupils aimed to expand digital education by teaching programming in underprivileged areas.
At the beginning of the project, they focused on the area of Paraisópolis, in São Paulo, building partnerships with schools in the region - Instituto Unidos de Paraisópolis and Centro de Crianças e Adolescentes (CCA) - to gauge the students’ interest. They offered programming lessons in both Java and Python, and helped students create their own websites, games and even apps.
Juntos na Tecnologia allows those students who would not be able to pay for lessons to learn useful computing skills.
The project gained enough traction that it even received news coverage in Jornal Nacional, the most important news show in Brazil.
Henrique shares that, since he’s always been passionate about computer science and programming, creating the project was an extension of that. He says he can already see how the project makes a big difference in the students’ lives.
Luca believes the lessons will open many doors for these students, as the programing area is growing and in need of qualified professionals. He adds that the course has also led to his own personal growth, as he developed from an impatient teacher at the start, to a much better and more caring teacher by the end.
Juntos na Tecnologia taught lessons on Java and Python in underprivileged areas
Pupil voice: The Lion Magazine
By Isabela Doherty and Athina Kissajikian, The Lion’s Editors-in-Chief
The Lion magazine connects students to global news monthly, with each issue centered around a unique theme for students to explore in their writing. The magazine has a variety of sections, ensuring a diverse and engaging reading experience. Our skillful writers break down complex global issues to make them accessible and understandable for younger students.
This year, we have embarked on several new initiatives. We’ve introduced interactive multimedia content, such as quizzes and games, along with editorials featuring monthly horoscope predictions tailored specifically for St. Paul’s students. Our new sustainability section offers valuable and current news to the magazine. As well as more school news articles and tips for pupils on academic topics. Additionally, our many competitions, both current and upcoming, provide exciting opportunities for students to showcase their talents and creativity.
Pupil voice: Senior School Council 2023-24
By Angela Fregonesi, Assistant Head - Pastoral
It has been an absolute pleasure working with the Senior School Council this year. They are a dynamic, responsible group of young people who have all proved themselves to be thoughtful, sensible and forward-thinking. Both Dr Hallinan and I have very much enjoyed having them share ideas and suggestions on how to improve the school menu (always an item on the council agenda), reporting rounds and the school facilities.
The school council provides all senior school pupils with a voice. It is a platform for all pupils to share ideas with the Senior Leadership Team and make changes for the common good. Its representatives are all democratically elected by their year group peers and have to present a carefully planned manifesto and speech to their electorate. Standing up in front of your year group colleagues and tutors at hustings is really not for the faint of heart and I applaud all the candidates for having the courage to stand for election.
Antonio Laloni, F4 council representative, reflects on his experience of being on this year’s school council:
“Being on the school council was an amazing experience. We get to know how the school works, and build relationships with those who run it. “
We look forward to another exciting year of working alongside the school council in the next academic year.
Form
Karman
Form 3: Ana Clara Herndl
Form 4: Nina Moreau, Antonio Laloni
Form 5: Anna Spritzer Sapoznik, Giordano Piwowarczyk Araujo
Lower 6: Adriano Yazigi, Sara Lawrence Bueno
Non-elected members (F6th representatives and school captains): Daniel Westphalen and Helena Ribeiro do Prado (term 1); Alexa Noreña Cordeiro (term 2)
THIS YEAR’S REPRESENTATIVES
Form 1: André Ribeiro do Prado, Max Schwarz
2:
Jaspal, Julia McManus
Art Department Annual Review
By
Simone Rebelo, Head of Art
In a world in which technology plays an important role in our personal lives and jobs, the art department also took steps to expand and implement technology in our learners’ art experience at school. Digital art was included alongside fine arts in the curriculum to cater for and amplify pupils’ ideas, development, experimentation, research, tools, and techniques. It is crucial for art pupils to foster an understanding of the culture and time when art is produced, and the role technology plays in their daily lives.
Beside these developments, I am also keen to pay a special attention and offer praise this year to my wonderful F5 IGCSE Art group. Over time and with constant dedication, perseverance, and passion for art, we started to see them flourish into talented young artists. Themes chosen were personal and relevant to their life experiences and perceptions. I could not be prouder of them!
Isabela Securato - Form 5
Leticia Reis - Form 5
Senior School Music: showcase of talent
By Vanessa Hewitt, Head of Music Senior School
The Senior School Music department had another eventful year, with a variety of successes to celebrate. Early in term one, we commenced rehearsals for the play Alice in Wonderland. Our Form 4 and Form 5 musicians were all too eager to form a band to underscore the play, performing hits that highlighted poignant parts of the story line. It was wonderful to see them relish the opportunity and responsibility to accompany the vocalists, contributing to an incredible performance all round that was a real highlight of the school year.
The Carol Service set the scene for a full congregation of festive celebrations in December. The service involved a broad range of the school community, with staff and students performing some old classics, as well as a new repertoire. It was particularly lovely to see the Senior and Junior choirs combine with the staff choir, while our talented instrumentalists performed as part of the orchestra.
The Senior Recital Evening warmly marked the beginning of term two. Our iGCSE and IB music pupils took to the stage to showcase their hard work and talent to a welcoming audience.
The pieces these students prepared for the recital were later recorded and sent as part of their IGCSE and IB coursework, of which they should all be very proud.
We enjoyed celebrating Arts Week in April. The lunch-time pupil performances were a crowd pleaser, while the lunchtime karaoke provided much fun and entertainment for all, especially several teachers, who were certainly not shy to step into the limelight!
Most recently, some of our Form 5 musicians performed at International Day, which celebrated the different cultures represented here at St. Paul’s School. We also honoured our very first King’s Birthday celebrations in style with a Britishthemed party.
We recently had to say goodbye to our Upper 6th pupils and our talented Upper 6th singers performed beautifully at their graduation ceremony. They will be dearly missed next year.
A huge thank you must go out to our very passionate music team, whose hard work and dedication continue to ensure the smooth running of our vibrant department.
Rediscovering Wonder: A Journey in the Drama Department
By Rodrigo Seidl, Head of Drama
The highlight of the year for Drama was, most certainly, our school play: Wonderland. This was a very special project. It has been staged before at St. Paul’s and directed by me back in 2011. However, our new rendition was very different. The journey back to this classic tale reminded us of something we had long forgotten: the state of wonder we had when we were young. Alice as re-imagined by the pupils in our story is a teenager, worn down by the demands of her daily routine.
She has become cynical and boring. Upon following the White Rabbit, she finds herself lost and confused by the nonsense of Wonderland. She will only be allowed to leave and defy the Red Queen by remembering who she was.
Our play was indeed a liberating experience. Without being tied to a script or a ready-made version, pupils were able to fully take part in the creation of the play, having a say in all aspects of the production; from creating scenes, costume, and design, to selecting scenes, choosing songs, and coming up
with the choreography. In the spirit of Wonderland, the pupils were free to be themselves on stage and it was a pleasure to watch. It was also the last performance on the St. Paul’s stage of our talented Upper Sixth thespians who have given so much to the school over the years. It was a delight to see them perform one last time.
In other areas, the Drama Department continues to go from strength to strength. We had the largest number of pupils enrolled in IB theatre and this resulted in a successful IB Evening of Theatre in which the sixth form pupils performed four originally devised theatre pieces. We also saw the emergence of a talented group of lower senior school pupils in the fantastic performance of Annie run by the Act Out group. Although we say goodbye to an extremely talented generation in the Upper Sixth form, we look forward to seeing a new generation of promising young thespians taking their place and taking part in many more future school productions.
A journey to remember – the past year in Sports
By Liam Smith, Director of Sport
My first year as Director of Sport at St. Paul’s has been memorable and productive. Together, we have made significant strides in creating an inclusive sports programme and exploring a concept-based Physical Education curriculum. To facilitate this transformation, we welcomed Danilo Peruchi as our After-School Clubs Coordinator.
Additionally, we welcomed on board Rosemary Lawrence to help coordinate the Senior School Physical Education programme. Alongside Ana Leticia Moraes from the Prep school and Michele Fletcher from Pre-Prep, they have pioneered a concept-based Physical Education programme.
Pre-Prep School
In the Pre-Prep, children learn invaluable lessons in embracing differences, fostering a sense of well-being and learning about sportsmanship. It is heartening to witness these budding athletes immerse themselves in fun-filled learning experiences, fostering not just physical dexterity but also resilience, camaraderie, and holistic growth. It’s not just about running and jumping around; it’s about making new friends, working together as a team, and playing fair. By joining in games and activities, children get to improve their skills such as catching, throwing, and even doing handstands and cartwheels, all in their own special way and at their own speed. The values instilled through sport extend far beyond mere exercise or skill-building.
This innovative approach moves away from traditional subject-specific content, focusing instead on “big ideas” using sport as the vehicle to span multiple physical activity disciplines. The goal is to instil in every pupil a lifelong love for sport and physical activity.
Our collective efforts have not only enhanced the inclusivity and comprehensiveness of our sports but have also laid a strong foundation for a holistic and engaging Physical Education curriculum. I am proud of what we have achieved and look forward to continuing this journey of promoting sports, physical activity and physical education within our school and its wider community.
Prep School
This year, the Prep pupils witnessed an important change in the Prep PE Curriculum with the implementation of the Concept approach within PE lessons. The curriculum is designed to introduce fundamental physical education concepts to young learners in an engaging and developmentally appropriate manner. It lays the foundation for a lifelong appreciation of health and fitness and promotes social interaction and emotional well-being among Prep pupils, fostering a holistic approach to their overall growth and learning.
Senior School
In the Senior School we launched the “Olympian of the Term” award, recognising students who embody Olympic values, thereby enhancing motivation and pride. Significant strides were made in curriculum development, successfully integrating the traditional British curriculum with our students’ unique talents. Student leadership received a boost with the introduction of ‘PE Captains’ and the Student Voice Forum - PE Council.
Our calendar featured enriching events like Inclusion and Diversity Week, International Women’s Day, and Wellbeing Week. New lunch-time house competitions and a diverse House Sports Day featuring judo, yoga, and other activities invigorated our sports culture. Additionally, we initiated a Praise and Reward Trip to honour the exemplary leadership of our sports captains and PE Olympian Lions, promoting continued excellence in our school community.
GO LIONS
SPORTS DAY
Prep 3
1st Place - Ohtake - 837 points
2nd Place - Tarsila - 788 points
3rd Place - Niemeyer - 684 points
4th Place - Frida - 580 points
Prep 3
1st place - Ohtake
2nd place - Tarsila
3rd place - Frida
4th place - Niemeyer
FOOTBALL
Prep 4
1st Place - Franklin - 843 points
2nd Place - Curie - 810 points
3rd Place - Turing - 793 points
4th Place - Darwin - 671 points
SWIMMING GALA
Prep 4
1st place - Curie
2nd place - Franklin
3rd place - Turing
4th place - Darwin
In the Prep Teams we had more pupils training with us, with more festivals and a St. Paul’s Football Tournament between our students. The Varsity Boys’ Football team showed improvement and we reached the final of the ISSL tournament, ending as runners-up, but that doesn’t diminish our accomplishments. Our runner-up position in the ISSL qualified us to enter the Final Four competition. At the SPHSL Tournament our team qualified in second place with the advantage of playing the semi-final at home.
Prep 5
1st Place - Mandela - 909 points
2nd Place - Tubman - 830 points
3rd Place - Tiradentes - 827 points
4th Place - Malala - 802 points
Prep 5
1st place - Mandela
2nd place - Malala
3rd place - Tubman
4th place - Tiradentes
Unfortunately, our team suffered with injuries and we lost the game in extra time. The Varsity Girls’ Football Team finished in fourth place in the SPHSL league after several challenging and tough games. At the ISSL Tournament we came sixth, although it was a great opportunity to improve our game and teamwork. Our Junior Varsity teams showed great improvement and capacity to overcome challenges. The Junior Varsity Boys’ team ended up in 4th place in the Little10 Tournament after tough games in group stage, and the Junior Varsity Girls’ team finished in sixth place.
The basketball season at St. Paul’s this year has been exhilarating and highly successful. This season, both the boys’ and girls’ teams excelled, securing gold medals in the ISSL and São Paulo High School League tournaments. It is also important to highlight that both teams won their tournaments undefeated and for the second time in a row they came in second place at the Final Four tournament.
Additionally, the girls’ Junior Varsity (JV) team finished the season with a gold medal in the Little 10 tournament and the boys got 4th place, while our JV teams collectively brought home two more gold medals from the SPHSL. We are eagerly looking forward to the next season, confident that it will bring further growth, excitement, and success for our teams.
The Varsity Boys’ Futsal team once again had a brilliant season. After an impeccable group stage and smooth progress to the final, we faced Graded School at home and won the first SPHSL Varsity Futsal League title in our history. At the ISSL Tournament we played with JV Boys and we made a difference. The Varsity Girls’ Futsal team showed a great improvement in comparison to the last season. At the ISSL Tournament, we finished the group stage in second place with two wins and one defeat against American School of Recife. The girls demonstrated real effort and teamwork during a very difficult match in the semi-finals against British College, but unfortunately we lost both the semifinal game and the third-place game in a penalty shoot out. In the league season, the girls
This was a great year full of growth that was reflected on our results. We were able to reach many finals. It began with the Brazilian High school leagues where the Varsity Girls achieved third place and Varsity Boys fourth. In the Pinheiros Copa, JV and Varsity Girls achieved second place. By the middle of the year, we faced SPHSL with confidence with Varsity Girls winning second place and Varsity boys third. BASKETBALL
also had impeccable group stage performance with first place guaranteed for the final. In the final, the girls were exceptional in a tough game against Graded School and we won the SPHSL Varsity Futsal League; doing a double with both teams. The Junior Varsity’ Futsal teams showed ability to overcome challenges with new young players. Our JV Girls’ Futsal team finished the Little 10 Tournament in seventh place after difficult matches. The JV Boys’ Futsal team ended up in second place in the group stage at Little 10 Tournament and competed for the bronze medal. Unfortunately, we lost the game after a penalty shoot out. At SPHSL we finished in third place after the group stage and lost the semi-finals in the final seconds of the game.
The JV teams were no different and won the championship’s first place title. The St. Paul’s school volleyball name continued to bring glory in the ISSL tournament. Both the boys’ and girls’ teams were runners-up and, once again, the JV teams brought home the gold medal. We are confident that all teams - girls, boys, prep, JV and Varsity - will continue to flourish and reach even greater heights.
The Common Room: Arrivals
JUNIOR SCHOOL
Caroline Alencar (Class Assistant), Maria Luiza Bastos (Class Assistant), Flavia Batista (Class Assistant), Nathalia Bitencourt (Class Assistant), Nathaly Carlos (Class Assistant), Debora Carvalho (Class Assistant), Catalina Egger (Class Assistant SEND/1:1 support), Gabriela Fernandes (Class Assistant), Franli Inhesta (Class Assistant), Victor Lin (Class Assistant SEND/1:1 support), Isabela Machado (Class Assistant), Vitor Murano (Class Assistant), Thais Sgarabotto (Class Assistant), Maria Isabela Silva (Class Assistant) and Nichola Smith (Class Teacher).
SENIOR SCHOOL
Fabio Almeida (Humanities Teacher), Leonardo Campanholo (MFL Teacher), Natalia Freitas (Humanities Teacher), Roney Nascimento (Maths Teacher), Nik Radia (Maths Teacher), Zoe Sanger (English Teacher) and Glen Trevaskis (English Teacher).
WHOLE SCHOOL
Liam Smith (Director of Sports), David Towse (Director of Educational Technology), Vinicius Couto (PE Assistant), Rosemary Lawrence (Head of PE in Senior School), Julia Oliveira (PE Assistant) and Danilo Peruchi (Clubs Coordinator).
ADMINISTRATIVE
STAFF
Bárbara Almeida (Accounts Analyst), John Victor Dantas (IT Analyst), Lais Espacini (Comms Analyst), Lucas Gomes (Operations Assistant), Jessica Lima (Library Assistant), Maria Luiza Mahfud (Psychologist for Junior School), Nietzsche Moura (HR Analyst), Vinicius Nascimento (Junior School Secretary), Gabriela Osorio (Sixth Form Secretary), Lucileide Roque (Procurement) and Aline Souza (Financial & Account Assistant).
The Common Room: Departures
SCHOOL EXECUTIVE
Zeba Clarke has led many important projects, most notably transforming and modernising the school’s approach to safeguarding and well-being. Her support, advice, and presence have been invaluable over the past three years. She leaves us to take up a Headship in Luxembourg, where we are confident she will be hugely successful.
Amy Clifford began as Head of the PrePrep in 2016 and took over the entire Junior School in March 2020, just before the first Covid lockdown. Despite the timing, she has been transformational, reforming and improving both the curriculum and physical spaces to create light, modern classrooms where our younger pupils can learn, grow, and thrive. We wish her all the best for the future.
JUNIOR SCHOOL
Estelle Ampélé (Class Teacher), Christina Bocchini (Class Teacher), Bruna Cavalini (Class Teacher), Igor Coelho (Portuguese Teacher), Stephen Conacher (Class Assistant), Victoria Couto (Class Assistant), Sarah de Souza (Class Teacher), Eduarda Guerra (Class Assistant), Carla Hawkins (Class Teacher), Martina Heuberger (Class Teacher), Jessica Iogolia (Class Assistant), Stephanie Johnston (Class teacher – Maternity Cover), Delali Kalitsi (Class Teacher), Henry Manuel (Class Teacher), Maria Eduarda Mello (Class Assistant), Mariana Munik (class assistant), Kari Olsen (Class Teacher), Andrew Ouma (Class Assistant), José Pessoa (Class Assistant), Vitor Rios (Class Assistant) and Miranda Santos (Class Assistant).
SENIOR SCHOOL
Alison Ashman (Assistant Head of Teaching & Learning), Gisela Bergonzoni (Brass Teacher), David Bryan (Math Teacher), Ian Copenhall (Maths teacher), Mark Grantham-Hill (Biology Teacher), Jennifer Healey (English Teacher), Evandro Ivanov (Chemistry Teacher), Amy Jordon (Head of Science), Graeme Rodgers (Head of History) and Sophie Stocks (English Teacher).
WHOLE SCHOOL
Lee Sutton leaves us after five years, having served as Director of Sport and, more recently, overseeing our Broader Curricular & Enrichment Programmes. Known for his energy, cheery optimism and ability to be in several places around the school at once, usually armed with a whistle, he will be sorely missed when he returns to England.
Valnei Lopes has been an exceptional educator and mentor, inspiring many pupils with his passion and expertise in percussion. His commitment to creating a love for music in our pupils has been truly remarkable, and he will be greatly missed by the entire St. Paul’s community. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors and thank him for his significant contributions to our school.
Rodrigo Prado made an extraordinary contribution as our basketball coach for the last 18 years. This has been a time of great success and Rodrigo’s unwavering dedication, passion, and deep love for the sport have inspired countless Pauleans, both past and present. His mentorship and guidance have been invaluable, shaping not only skilled athletes but also well-rounded individuals. His commitment to excellence and his ability to instill confidence and discipline in his players have left a lasting legacy. As he moves on, many will be grateful for his immense contribution and dedication.
Vanessa Hewitt (Head of Music – Senior School), Natalie Merkel (LSU Assistant) and Celina Ostronoff (PE Assistant)
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Katherine Asega has been with the school for seven years, performing different jobs with professionalism and commitment. She started in the Learning Resources Centre, has worked a lot in School Systems and was the pillar of the Health and Safety and Data Protection department. Katherine will be missed, and the school will always be grateful for her hard work.
Throughout his tenure in the IT department, Alberto Ferreira has been a committed and kind colleague, who was always willing to lend a helping hand, accompanied by a warm smile. We are immensely grateful for his dedication through his years of service and wish him every success in the future.
Luzia Palma retired this year, from the Finance Department, after 34 dedicated years at St. Paul’s. Luzia was known for her warmth and caring nature. She was always helpful and willing to offer a kind word to lift our spirits. We will certainly miss her presence and are very thankful for all her handwork and commitment to St. Paul’s.
Adilson Santana left us after 21 years of commitment to the Finance Department. We express our gratitude and admiration for everything he has contributed to our team and to the school. His dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment have been a source of inspiration to all of us.
Marcia Alonso (Director of Construction), Rita Delicato (School Secretary – Events & Extracurriculars), Hadassa Itepan (Librarian), Regina Pereira (Librarian), Giovanna Santiago (Lab technician), Larissa Santos (Library Assistant), Pamela Silva (Administrative Assistant) and Daniela Yokoyama (Pre-Prep School Secretary).
Amy Clifford, Head of Junior School
By Verena Ferreira, Director of Marketing & Admissions
Amy Clifford joined St. Paul’s as Head of the Pre-Prep in 2016 and took over the entire Junior School in March 2020, just before the first Covid lockdown.
Despite the timing, she has been transformational in reforming and improving both the curriculum and physical spaces to create light, modern classrooms where our younger pupils can learn, grow, and thrive. We wish her all the best for the future.
Tell us about your trajectory at St. Paul’s.
I started working at St Paul’s in July 2016 as the Head of PrePrep. As an early childhood educator, it was a huge pleasure and privilege to be able to develop a British style play-based curriculum within a Brazilian context. The staff’s enthusiasm and support, along with the immediate impact these changes had on the children will always be remembered.
In March 2022, two weeks before the pandemic and first lockdown, I was made Head of Junior School. This was an exciting new role and an opportunity for me to follow the children up through the school, while also working with the team to build a challenging and cohesive curriculum that aligned with British standards but was uniquely designed for the children at St Paul’s. Making learning meaningful and fun was at the heart of this work, and I am incredibly proud to have helped lay the foundations for the future.
What are some of the best and most historical moments you have seen and lived here?
After a long stable period of British monarchy, marked by the Platinum Jubilee, the death of Queen Elizabeth II and the Coronation of King Charles III at the school was particularly memorable for me. Being in Brazil and in a British School during these historic moments was a unique opportunity to experience these occasions from overseas, while also feeling closer to home.
What are some of your favourite memories of St. Paul’s? I have so many happy memories of the children; playing on their new climbing equipment for the first time, cheering as they re-entered school after the lock down, trips and residentials, plays and shows. I also remember the children and teachers; watching two visiting artists Renan and Ed Vere creating artwork on the walls of the Pre-Prep library and painting the lion in the corridor. This was very special as I feel that these pieces capture the essence of the Junior School and its newfound love for books. I am pleased that these creations will be enjoyed by the children for many years to come.
The
Junior School
teaching team are among the most reflective educators I have ever worked with
How do you see the school in the future?
I know that the school will go from strength to strength. The Junior School teaching team are among the most reflective educators I have ever worked with. They are always looking to build on their good work and develop ideas to increase children’s enjoyment and learning in school. I will certainly keep in touch and be supporting their development from afar.
What are your plans moving forward?
After eight wonderful years working at St Paul’s in Brazil, I am going to have a short sabbatical and travel to Southeast Asia. After that, I hope to find another school that makes me just as happy as I have been working with the children and teachers across the Junior School
Creating artwork in our Pre-Prep library
