Annual Review 2022-23 | St. Paul's School

Headmaster’s address By Titus Edge, Headmaster I write these words as we come to the end of another

surroundings, how they so often go beyond expectations and

academic year; my third as Headmaster at St. Paul’s but

how they reflect real pride in the school they represent.

my first as Head of a fully functioning post-Covid school,

I share this pride and, at the end of a long academic year,

operating across all areas of curricular life. It has been a joy

we should reflect on all that has happened around us, since

to appreciate the school for what it should be: a committed

we started back in August 2022.

community of learning and a warm community of people.

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Globally, the world has emerged from the most devasting

As an Englishman abroad and a guest in Brazil, I have

pandemic in modern history, and we have seen the final

much to learn about this school and its community, and yet

vestiges of those restrictions, that for a while defined our

more still to learn about this great country as a whole: the

lives, finally disappear. We have also seen presidents and

richness of the culture, the vastness of its landscapes, the

prime ministers come and go, bade a final farewell to a long-

beauty of its environment, the diversity of its people, and the

serving and much-loved monarch and, a few months later,

optimism of its spirit… All this is enough to inspire and absorb

mourned the passing of the most famous Brazilian footballer

any visitor for a lifetime. Alas, it will take several lifetimes for

(or possibly the most famous Brazilian) of all time. We have

me to master the mysteries of the Portuguese language.

also celebrated the first Coronation to be held anywhere

As I have got to know something of Brazil (linguistics

in the world in seven decades, heralded the explosion of

aside) I have also come to appreciate many aspects of this

Artificial Intelligence into our everyday lives and endured

school: its history, its culture, its ethos, its buildings, its

the sad, but all too inevitable, spectacle of both England and

routines, its challenges, its traditions, its aspirations, and,

Brazil massively underperforming in the Football World Cup.

above all, its people. For it is in people – pupils, parents,

As a school, we have ridden these events and taken

staff, alumni and friends – that the essence of any school is

advantage of all the opportunities that have come our

truly captured. I always ask prospective parents to judge us

way. It was just about a year ago that pupils sat the first

not by our infrastructure, facilities, or reputation but by the

proper public exams for two years and went on to perform

pupils that they meet: how they interact, engage with their

exceptionally well in their IGCSE and IB assessments, with

Lions’ Pride 2023

many of our leavers going on to renowned universities in North and South America, and of course in Europe and the United Kingdom.

develop our digital strategy for the years ahead. The pace of change is bewildering and can even feel threatening. So, above all, the school continues to be a safe

Across all sections of the school, we have continued

space with kindness at its core. A place where people are not

to advance the academic curriculum and the quality of

just kept physically safe, though that of course is of primary

pastoral care to ensure that your children develop as

importance, but also emotionally safe; where they can

confident and compassionate young people, ready to thrive

discover who they are, and face challenges and occasional

in the modern world.

setbacks within a caring, secure and supportive environment.

The Junior School has reviewed its curriculum. The

As part of this, and with our digital consultants, we

Senior School has appointed an additional Assistant Head

have updated our approach to mobile devices, so they

to develop Learning and Teaching. From next term we

do not detract from learning or from developing healthy

will be introducing a new set of Lion Learning grades that

relationships. Young people need to be liberated from the

encourage pupils towards their targets and develop as

distraction and disruption of phones in the school day and

reflective and responsible learners, with the skills to enhance

from the many unpleasant and damaging effects they so

their own potential.

often have, not least on metal health. This technology can be

We are piloting the St. Paul’s Diploma to encourage pupils to engage across all sections of school life; we have developed

a hugely positive force and has its place, but we must always ensure we are its masters and not its servants.

opportunities for pupils to take more responsibility in House

Across all areas of school life, I am hugely indebted

Competitions; we have record numbers of pupils engaged in

to the commitment and professionalism of our staff:

the Duke of Edinburgh International Award scheme.

teachers, assistants, administrators, guards, cooks, cleaners,

We have also expanded our scholarship programme,

groundsmen and many others. Thanks to their work, pupils

supported by voluntary donations through the St. Paul’s

can feel empowered to go beyond who they think they are,

Foundation. Three years ago we had a total of one scholar;

beyond their perceived limits and preconceptions, and thereby

next term we will have 28 and remain focused on our target of

discover something of their unique and inner greatness.

50 for the school centenary in 2026. This means that, not only

My final thanks go to the large numbers of people who give

is a first-class education open to young people regardless of

freely of their time to support the school. In the pupil body,

financial means, but also St. Paul’s continues to develop as a

we have those who served on the School Council and, of

genuinely diverse and inclusive community, better reflecting

course, the prefects, ably led by our School Captains, Daniel

the world for which our young people are being prepared.

Westphalen and Helena Ribeiro Prado. I would especially

We have continued to invest in technology and

like to thank the parents of the PTA for all their hard work.

educate young people about the opportunities and their

My thanks also go to the Board of Governors for continuing

responsibilities in the digital world. We have recently

to commit a lot of time and insight in their support of the

partnered with Ignite EdTech, world-leading consultants, to

school and its leadership.   7

Words from the Official Director By Pedro Paulo Siqueira, Diretor Oficial

Pedro Paulo and Dra Silvia, in the occasion of her farewell as Diretora Oficial. Pedro Paulo, Luane and Vitória, the Brazilian office team

For the 2022-2023 school year, St. Paul’s had two official

to achieve a smooth change-over of directors.

directors - Dra. Sílvia Siqueira left on 31st of January for her

It is great to observe that the school has had yet another

well-deserved retirement, and I started on the 1st of February,

successful year. Our leavers were secured in competitive

bringing commitment, enthusiasm and pride to my new

Brazilian and international universities, and because of this,

position.

I would like to recognise the excellent work done by their

I am grateful for all the support given to me by MEC

teachers, Heads of Department and the Executive. Our U6

Educational authorities, our Headmaster, Titus Edge, the

pupils, who decided to continue their studies in Brazil, have

Executive team, teachers, staff and not least by Luane and

been able to count on sterling support from school.

Vitória, our Brazilian office team members, so we were all able

I’m delighted to be a part of St. Paul’s Community!

PTA Report By Vanessa Westphalen, PTA Chair 2022-23 The Parent Teacher Association is an organisation that

the Acer football cup, the holiday cards sale, Operation Shoe Box

supports the school community in many ways, always fostering

and the Holiday Bazaar brought joy to the season, before we all

understanding among parents, teachers and the school. This

enjoyed our end-of-term holidays.

year, we promoted many events, either to raise money for charity, or to bring our community together. At the beginning of the academic year, we organised our calendar events, such as a welcome evening for new parents, a second-hand uniform sale, and a book sale. At the end of term,

There were many opportunities to support the school in its events, like the Coronation celebration, the sports awards evening, the Foundation cocktail party and many interesting sponsored talks throughout the year. We have kept the best for last, our landmark event: International Day was a huge hit, that could not have happened without the invaluable participation of teachers, parents, students, staff, members of the Fundação, and Old Pauleans. The outcome was fantastic. The children showcased their talents, once more. This time, with the guidance of their teachers and the club tutors. It was a joyful, delicious and memorable event, that raised record funds for the institutions embraced by the school. The PTA is thankful for this wonderful year, and hopes to continue bringing our community together.

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Celebrating the Coronation 10

Lions’ Pride 2023

On 6th of May 2023, the United Kingdom celebrated

while the band Beatles for Kids played the biggest hits of

the coronation of their new King, Charles III. This special

this iconic British band. Pupils enjoyed a picnic on the field,

event was marked by celebrations across the country, and

wearing their own crowns. Among these activities, we also

St. Paul’s joined in with the festivities. We hosted a St. Paul’s

should highlight the work of our prefects, who even agreed

Coronation Fête for pupils, with wide-ranging activities for

to get soaked - all in the name of fun!

Junior and Senior pupils. In Junior School, all pupils attended a special assembly delivered by the Headmaster, Titus Edge, who explained the importance of the Coronation, its rituals, and mentioning that it is the first coronation in more than 70 years.

Lunch was served with typical British food - coronation chicken, bangers and mash, Eton mess and Victoria sponge cake. Our Senior School pupils had a special British Invasion concert in the afternoon. During the festival, pupils

Once they had been acquainted with the significance of

performed in groups, choosing songs by their favorite British

the moment, pupils were able to take part in the celebratory

artists. Even our teachers participated, delivering amusing

activities to foster the pride in British culture among our

performances. It was delightful to celebrate this special and

community. Many games were played around the school,

historical moment.

The coronation party at school included fun activities for Junior School and a music festival for Senior School

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Igniting Minds during the 5th St. Paul’s Education Conference by Verena Ferreira, PR & Marketing manager Last November, we hosted the 5th St. Paul’s Education Conference, an inspiring opportunity to share ideas and experiences with educators from many schools. Under the theme “Igniting Minds: what inspires you?”, we welcomed around 350 delegates who offered us a wide range of talent, experience and backgrounds: from our keynote speakers to our sponsors and supporters, our own staff at St. Paul’s and many colleagues from international and Brazilian schools in São Paulo and beyond. Our speakers, Cintia Rodrigues, Phil Badham, Peps McCrea, Debra Kidd and Chris Edwards set the tone in the main lectures, challenging all attendees to reflect on their own educational practice. St. Paul’s staff led sessions on diverse themes, such as social and emotional learning, developing skills beyond the classroom, critical thinking across the curriculum, creativity, enrichment, sustainability, digital projects and more. “In this conference, we will share ideas and experiences – rejoice and learn from each other’s successes and commiserate and learn from each other’s failures. We will not always agree, and nor should we. If the human spirit is to spark, it needs both fuel and friction – and I hope, we can supply you with healthy amounts of both over the course of the weekend”, said our Headmaster, Titus Edge, in his opening ceremony speech.

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Lions’ Pride 2023

Digital Strategy: Innovative learning through technology By Zeba Clarke, Deputy Head

Over the course of the 2022-2023 academic year, we have refined our digital vision and purpose: we want our pupils to achieve the best of themselves, and this means that

integrity of our networks. We are working with a leading consultancy, Ignite EdTech, on a wide range of initiatives, such as:

we expect them to be impressive digital learners across

• developing our leadership structures to propel

the whole curriculum. We want Pauleans to thrive in a

innovation and change through the learning that

complex and ever-changing technological world. This

happens across the whole school

means that our staff also need to demonstrate confident

• we are implementing more rigorous education and

mastery of a range of digital tools.

controls governing the use of mobile phones in school

What this looks like in practice is regular professional development for our staff in using specific tools and skills,

to ensure that our pupils and staff understand how to use our resources to create, rather than consume

such as creating audio files and podcasts, learning how to

• our pupils are sharing their learning in innovative

film and edit video footage to support classroom activities

ways. We shall be encouraging them to understand and

and objectives, as well as managing databases, developing

apply ISTE Student standards to ensure that as they

coding and deploying artificial intelligence (AI) effectively.

advance through St. Paul’s, they evolve into empowered

Equally important is providing staff with the time and

learners,

space to explore how best to deploy such skills and tools

responsible digital citizens.

most powerfully in the classroom to enhance learning.

capable

of

constructing

knowledge

as

Over the coming years, our aims are to integrate

Another element in our digital strategy is to ensure

innovative learning and teaching by means of technology

our students and staff are fully educated in the creative

in every classroom. This is an exciting time for us and

and positive use of technology. As the Headmaster has

we look forward over the coming years to sharing with

said elsewhere, we want our community to be masters of

parents and other stakeholders the developments we

technology, not servants. This means we are investing in

are carrying out. These changes will ensure that our

upgrading our networks, routers and systems to ensure

staff are confident and enthusiastic about providing the

that we have powerful Wi-Fi across our whole site, as well

conditions for students to create and innovate with and

as equally strong systems to preserve the security and

without technology. 13

An important year for our community’s wellbeing Dr Laura Mack, School Counsellor Looking back, I realise this has been an important year for

2022. She has done a great deal to align curriculums and

our community’s mental Health and wellbeing.

improve our PSHE as well as being a reliable and caring

In continuing our work to embed ‘We Care’, we have launched Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)/We Care

face to pupils throughout the school. Please join me in congratulating her.

talks each month. The core idea of We Care is that improving

As I always say – mental Health and wellbeing are not

our wellbeing, needs us to improve our relationships. And

isolated to each individual – we all have a place in supporting

nothing is better than an in-person conversation to discuss

each other - this makes us a kinder and happier community.

important aspects of children’s development and parenting. We had talks on resilience, digital awareness, safeguarding and SEL. We thank all parents who came and helped make this a success! We also hosted two outside speakers - Dr Guilherme Polanczyk, who talked about the impact of the pandemic on children’s mental health, and Deborah Cardoso, who provided valuable insights about the complex nature of bullying. Celebrating May as the Mental Health Awareness month, we invited George Peterkin, director of Mind your Health, an institution that has provided training throughout the globe, to interact with staff. Along with George, we are striving to become the Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub for International Latin American schools. We are proud of our link with him, and will continue our partnership to take this cooperation further. We were delighted to host our biannual school counsellor’s meeting, which provided opportunity to discuss best practices with other international and Brazilian schools and therapists that provide support to our pupils. We look forward to hosting it again next year. We have had several pupil-led initiatives across school. In the Senior School, the peer mentoring programme enables pupils to act as listeners with each other, allowing our team to intervene faster when it is necessary. In Prep School, Prep Listeners led by Mrs Ursulino and Mrs Santos, have already achieved a big difference, making our school a kinder and more inclusive environment. Next year we will offer staff a study group in psychoanalysis with Dr Paulo Schiller, a published author, pediatrician and psychoanalyst with over 30 years’ experience in private practice. I’m really looking forward to this! Last, but not least, Mrs Paganelli has completed her initial year as Personal, Social, Health Economic education (PSHE) and SEL coordinator, a role she took up in August 14

We Care and SEL talks of the year

Lions’ Pride 2023

Scholarship Programme: Building Dreams

Visit the website

By the St. Paul’s Foundation Team At St. Paul’s Foundation, we are passionate about transforming

Unleashing Potential: New Journeys Begin

lives by providing a world-class education. Our scholarship programme opens doors for talented students, granting lifechanging opportunities at St. Paul’s. As we reflect on the past year, filled with remarkable achievements and dedicated community support, we feel immense joy, gratitude and excitement for the future. Creating a Home: Nurturing Connections and Excellence Once again, we have surpassed expectations by welcoming a cohort of 11 new scholars for the current 2023-24 academic year, increasing the number of foundation pupils to an impressive 28 as of August 2023. After a rigorous 18-month selection process, including an English immersion programme and assessments encompassing educational, psychological, and social aspects, these extraordinary individuals have emerged as examples of unwavering potential and determination. Among the inspiring stories our scholarship programme has fostered is that of Ana Claudia Bido, our most recent graduate (class of 2023). Ana’s active involvement as a student leader We take great pride in witnessing the integration of our

and sports prefect have exemplified her exceptional qualities

scholars into the school community. Whether it’s participating

and left an indelible mark on the St. Paul’s community.

in the school play, excelling in sports, or engaging in MUN or the DofE expeditions, our scholars embrace every opportunity

Empowering Change and Illuminating Pathways to Success

to thrive and truly be a part of the community. Recognising the importance of fostering a sense of belonging, we held special events and well-being sessions with the school’s Social and Emotional Learning team. Through these initiatives, we help provide an environment where our scholars feel valued, supported, and at ease. This year, we also had abundant reasons to celebrate the exceptional academic achievements of our scholars. They not

We wish to express our deepest gratitude to our donors,

only excelled in events outside the school, winning awards

supporters, and the entire St. Paul’s community. Their

in prestigious academic Olympiads (OBMEP, UKMT, and

commitment and generosity have empowered young minds.

UKBC), but also shone within our own community. At our

Together, we nurture the next generation of leaders, equipping

annual Prize Giving ceremony, 12 out of 18 scholars won

them with the tools to make a lasting impact on the world. Our

prizes, displaying their dedication and enthusiasm in various

Coronation Cocktail in May served as a testament to our shared

subjects. Also, the highly coveted M.T.M Casey McCann

values and community spirit, raising crucial funds for our

Memorial Award was granted to one of ours at Form 5. Some

scholarship programme while celebrating a historic moment.

of our pupils also travelled abroad through the Scholarship

Together, we can inspire and nurture the potential of every

Programme to take Summer Courses in universities such as

pupil at St. Paul’s, forging a path towards a more inclusive

Yale and Oxford.

future for everyone.

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A year to be proud of

Academic Report 2022-23 We congratulate pupils and their teachers most warmly on this excellent set of results and we wish them every success for the future – be it beyond school or in their IB. In July, together with 179,000 other pupils across the

results were excellent. The top score in each subject is 7

globe, our Upper Sixth leavers (Class of 2023) celebrated

and some subjects have done exceptionally well with very

their excellent results in the International Baccalaureate

high proportions of 6 and 7 grades. They all deserve special

Diploma Programme.

congratulations for their efforts and success.

This year’s cohort of boys and girls have done brilliantly

In August 2023, the 2022-23 Form 5 celebrated their

with a 100% pass rate and 69 pupils achieving the diploma.

Cambridge IGCSE results - over half the results were A*-A

The average points score of St. Paul’s pupils is 34.6 points,

grades, and a quarter were the very highest A* grade. 85% of

compared with 34.1 last year. The global average is 30.24

the grades were in the range A*-B. We were particularly proud

points.

of those eight students who achieved all A*s & A grades in

Around 18% of the individual grades were 7 and we were especially proud of our ten high-fliers who scored 40 or more points out of a maximum of 45. Across the board the

their subjects and one pupil achieved a clean sweep of A*s; a really wonderful achievement. Join us in celebrating all pupils on their success.

EXAMS RESULTS Cambridge IGCSEs

23.6% A* 54% A*-A

73 candidates

IB results

71 100% candidates

pass rate

18% 34.6 of the cohort scored over 40 points

was the school average*

* compared with the 30 points world average

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The year in the Junior School By Amy Clifford, Head of Junior School Junior School children had a busy, happy, and productive time at school in 2022-23. After many months, they were able to enjoy a full year of undisrupted learning, without restrictions, and they benefited many opportunities were enjoyed across every aspect of school life. The school’s focus was on children’s social and emotional learning, and we sought to balance the learning that was lost owing to the pandemic, and enrich our pupils’ understanding with trips and experiences outside school. It was wonderful at last to return to the full rhythm of school life and to see children making the most of their year together. Giving our children powerful memories of their time at school is a guiding ambition for all teachers and, this year, provided a historical occasion for our community to unite and remember for many years to come. It marked the Coronation of King Charles III and to celebrate this special occasion, the

It was wonderful to finally return to the full rhythm of school life and see the children making the most of their year together.

Junior School festivities were inspired by events taking place

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across the United Kingdom. The school field was home to a

reminding children of their links with the United Kingdom

‘picnic in the park’ where children shared iced tea served with

and the significance of this important occasion. A Coronation

Victoria sponge cake, accompanied by a variety of British-

concert headlined by the local tribute band, Beetles for Kids,

inspired snacks brought from home. Children were also

provided the day’s soundtrack with two live performances.

invited to design a crown and royal robe to wear on the day,

Children and staff sang and danced along to the famous

bringing extra pomp and circumstance to the event.

British songs enjoyed by people in every corner of the globe.

We set up a traditional British summer fête with a range

Celebrating this historic event in such a fun and energetic

of stalls and games for children to enjoy. Games played

way will certainly have created long-lasting memories for

across the British Isles were recreated in the courtyard and

children and staff alike, as well as swelling our collective

Union Jack flags and bunting wrapped the event in colour,

pride in being part of a British School here in São Paulo.

Junior School

Outdoor learning in the Pre-Prep

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Young children benefit greatly from time spent outdoors.

wooden blocks, such as boats, race cars and castles. A unique

In the Pre-prep Department, the outdoor area is considered

aspect of our practice is that the PP1 and PP2 share the outdoor

an extension of the classroom, and pupils are encouraged

environment and can explore the different areas together.

to explore the multiple opportunities of this environment.

PP3 also challenged their learning in the different

Through physical and sensorial activities, social interactions

areas of the curriculum outdoors. For example, in physical

and active engagement with their learning, pupils develop

development, they created circuits using movable resources

intellectually, emotionally, and socially while laying the

and the climbing net, managing risk and setting goals for

groundwork for a lifelong relationship with nature.

each circuit they made. They were encouraged to use timers to

This school year, pupils impressed us with their deep

measure which pipe construction would transfer water faster.

engagement with our outdoor learning opportunities. In PP1,

Outdoor, engaging learning spaces provide stimulating

for example, pupils challenge themselves in the mangrove

resources and rich play-based learning experiences relevant

bars. They also created fantastic story plots in our role play

to all children’s interests, abilities, cultures, and communities

wagon using open-ended resources such as boxes and pieces

and encourage children to explore and take risks. They offer

of fabric. As for PP2, they were challenged to dig in the

children an authentic context to learn about the world and

sandpit to find and count dinosaur bones. They also used their

their place in it, and we look forward to seeing our pupils’

creativity and imagination to build different things using big

next adventures outdoors.

Lions’ Pride 2023

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Junior School

Pre-Prep’s trips and experiences

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Every academic year, Pre-Prep pupils are involved in an

and vegetables at the farmer’s market with their teachers and

assortment of trips and experiences which bring their

parents, and later learned all about animals while visiting the

learning to life. One of the most meaningful ways in which

aquarium.

young children begin making sense of the world around

In Pre-Prep 3, children enjoyed making new discoveries

them is having enjoyable first-hand experiences designed to

and developing new interests as they visited the garden

build their awareness of different cultures, communities and

centre and found out more about composting and recycling.

environments.

Best of all, they had the chance of holding plenty of mini

Our youngest pupils in Pre-Prep 1 left the school premises

beasts as they prepared to plant their own herbs. To finish off

on several occasions to explore the neighbourhood. They

their final year in the Pre-Prep, the children went on a special

went looking for numbers on houses and street signs on

visit to famous landmarks around the city as they learnt

Rua Juquiá and focused on making sure everyone knew how

about the history of São Paulo.

to keep safe when out and about. PP1 also enjoyed a picnic

Apart from engaging in trips across town, Pre-Prep

with their families and teachers at Praça Gastão Vidigal,

children were also involved in other exciting activities

reinforcing positive relationships with the adults in their

and events which included special visitors, such as their

lives, and finished off their first year at St. Paul’s School in

parents dressed up as mystery readers during reading week,

great style by visiting a beautiful farm in Cotia.

and interviews with different members of staff to find out

In Pre-Prep 2, it was no less busy! The children had a

more about their jobs and countries of origin. We cannot

fantastic time visiting the fire station in Ipiranga and learning

overestimate the lasting impact such experiences have on

how fire-fighters rescue people from dangerous situations

children’s lives and how they enable them to consolidate

such as fires and floods. They also enjoyed shopping for fruit

their learning by creating connections to the real world.

Junior School

Prep School’s meaningful trips and experiences In Junior School all trips are carefully planned to give

history of the Brás Inn and its role in helping our city grow

our pupils opportunities to build on their learning in

and develop.

the classrooms by means of meaningful and exciting

In the first term, Prep 1 pupils spent the day at Cidade das

experiences. These out-of-school activities allowed them

Abelhas as part of their science topic on animals’ needs and

to make connections between more complex ideas and a

life-cycles, and inspired by their reading of “The Bee Who

deeper understanding of concepts discussed in lessons. They

Spoke”. They were able to observe bees at different life

also helped our pupils to develop stronger bonds with their

stages, how they make honey, and better understand their

peers and teachers. There were visits to parks, museums,

important role as pollinators. It was wonderful to see how

glassmaking studio, train rides and longer residential

quickly they became experts on bees!

trips, all connected to their learning as well as their social emotional development.

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Prep 2 pupils had their first residential stay at Sítio do Carroção. It was an exciting time for both parents and pupils,

While learning all about the rapid growth of the city of São

as for some of them it was their first time sleeping away from

Paulo and the reasons behind it, Prep 4 pupils had a chance

home. Their resilience truly paid off. They had an amazing

to visit the Museu da Imigração and learn more about the

time consolidating their learning in the various project

immigrants who came to work in coffee farms and listen to

offered by the camp and playing with friends and teachers

their stories, as well as deepen their understanding of the

during free time.

Lions’ Pride 2023

Planning a New Green Space, a Prep 1 and 2 Project

Prep 1 and 2 children were set the challenge of redeveloping an

To share their ideas, they set up an exhibition and invited

area of the Prep School playground. Working in small groups,

key stakeholders to come and see their designs. Our school

Prep 1 pupils made models to represent the ideas of what the

engineers and architect, the School Executive team including

Green Space could offer, which included tree houses, monkey

Mr Edge and several teachers came to hear the children’s

bars, toy sheds, trampolines, benches and climbing walls.

design bids and walk around the stalls of the exhibition. The

The Prep 2 children were tasked with selecting plants for

children used a variety of knowledge and skills from across

their green space. They used their knowledge of native Atlantic

the curriculum to design their projects and present these as

plants to select those that could provide shade, food, and colour,

viable options to the school leadership and architects. Next

as well as those that could attract insects for pollination and

year their ideas will be incorporated into the grand design for

provide habitats for small creatures and animals. Children’s

a new Prep School Green Space and will be transformed into a

scientific, geographical, and mathematical skills were applied

playground to be enjoyed for many years to come.

through mapping and scale drawings of the space.

Prep Listeners During this school year, we launched the Prep Listeners initiative. This idea was developed and planned by the Prep School Council in order to make our playtimes fun and safe for everyone. Research shows that when children look after each other, bullying is less likely to occur, and it stops in ten seconds. Our Prep Listeners give up some of their free time to go around offering to play and listen to children who might be lonely or hesitant about joining a game. Throughout the year, we had an average of 40 volunteers from Prep 3, Prep 4 and Prep 5 who performed this role with enthusiasm and kindness, ensuring that our Prep pupils have opportunities to play and feel included during their free time. Our Prep Listeners were welcomed by pupils and were appreciated by our staff and parents for making a great difference to the overall wellbeing of our school. We look forward to further developing our Prep Listeners and making kindness our number one priority for all our pupils. 29

A journey of creativity in the Junior School By Julia Ferreira and Ana Leticia Hecker, Pre-Prep and Prep Art teachers By means of a diverse range of projects and activities, our young learners in the Junior School not only developed their skills but also continued to cultivate a deep appreciation of art, observation, and self-expression. In addition to the formal art learning, it was a year to celebrate how much pupils have grown in their self-confidence, risk-taking, problem-solving, and collaboration. Arts Week, a much anticipated event at St. Paul’s, offered pupils an immersive and enriching experience in the world of art. PP1s worked on a collaborative mural project, for which they used stencils they had made themselves to create a vibrant and expressive artwork. The PP2 children were hired as traveling artists by the King himself to make observational drawings of what they could see from a moving boat! Trying to catch details of islands, beaches, and native flora, they made stunning representations of a moving landscape, fortunately, without any seasickness, but with everyone having lots of fun! To celebrate the students’ artistic endeavours, we held an art exhibition, highlighting their diverse creations. Children took pride in their work, which boosted their selfconfidence and provided a platform to express themselves in front of the broader community. Our PP3s were asked to inspect the many artworks displayed around the school and make observational drawings of those they liked most. In Prep School, pupils created the “Prep Gallery”, where they were welcome to bring any artwork they had created outside of the classroom to display on our board. They chose between making a permanent donation or, if they wanted to keep their work, they could have exhibit it over a certain period, just like in a real-life gallery. They also worked on “The Masterpieces”, a project where they could create any artwork of their choice, and which displayed great effort in craftsmanship. These projects also teach them about the importance of different processes in art, including planning, researching and, most of all, patience!

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Lions’ Pride 2023

A remarkable year for Music By Ana Kristina Fabris Jankov, Head of Music Junior School

This year, we witnessed remarkable achievements and

St. Paul’s remains the only London College of Music

successes by Junior School pupils throughout the academic

(LCM) examination centre in the whole of South America.

year. Musical performances, private instrument lessons,

The school year saw a large increase in the number of pupils

participation in London College of Music examinations

taking private music lessons. The school’s commitment

participation all helped boost pupils’ enthusiasm for music

to fostering individual musical growth was essential in

across the Junior School.

attracting more students to take up instrument lessons. As a

One of the highlights was the outstanding performance

result, record numbers of students sat the LCM examinations,

by the choirs and ensembles during the biannual choirs

demonstrating their proficiency and dedication to their

and ensembles concert and International Day. The pupils

instruments. Most of them chose to sit the theoretical exam

displayed their exceptional talent and dedication in a

which ensures them a well-rounded music education.

memorable concert, impressing both the school community

Throughout the school year, pupils have demonstrated

and external guests. The newly-formed Prep Stuart Band

remarkable enthusiasm and progress in their curriculum

is a force to be reckoned with. Despite their youth, the

music lessons, learning how to appreciate music, compose,

members of the band have approached their rehearsals and

sing, read notes and play various instruments. This inclusive

performances with a level of commitment and seriousness

approach to music education has led to the discovery and

that is often only seen in more experienced musicians. They

nurturing of new pupil talent. The school takes great pride

surely have the potential to make a marked impact in the

in nurturing musical ability, and it is rewarding when pupils

forthcoming Battle of the Bands competition.

express their gratitude by including musical references in

All this wouldn’t have been possible without the help and

thank-you cards or personal statements within their end-

support of parents and teachers. The Junior School witnessed

of-year reports. These highlight the intrinsic value of music

an impressive increase in the number of pupils singing in

education, and emphasise its positive impact on pupils’

the school choirs, with some 200 children enrolled.

personal growth and expression. 31

From the Head of Senior School By Martina Oparaocha, Head of Senior School As the Head of Senior School, I am in a position that allows

and of course I get to join our wonderful student body on

me to see the big picture. Yes, I miss the intimate relationship

their twin journeys, one of educational excellence, and the

of being a tutor or classroom teacher, but I am rewarded with

other of personal growth and development from a Form 1

the opportunity to get to know people across the broad range

into a rugged and adventurous Sixth-Former who is readying

of roles that make up the family of St. Paul’s.

themselves to leave for the beginning of their adult lives.

I get to see the hard work, care and devotion of the staff, to

Like all families it is not all plain sailing at St. Paul’s. We

see the love and support of parents (however it is expressed!),

have our conflicts and crises, but over time we resolve them and grow, because a family has foundations beyond its dayto-day experiences that help it remember what is important. The important things are our values. At St. Paul’s, we value the excellence of our staff and the high quality of the lessons they provide for students. We value the dedication of our pupils who target the most difficult and prestigious universities, and who so often succeed in achieving a place at these institutions. We value the trust of parents who allow us to care for their children and who demonstrate a commitment and interest in the school in so many ways, as shown yearly by International Day. We value the environment in which education takes place and through the work of Sodexo staff make it a clean and pleasant place to be, and of course we ensure that our wonderful administration staff are in place to make sure that all the other people have what they need to play their parts. Form 1, thank you for completing your first year in Senior School, the shine from August has worn off and you are now confident members of the student body. And you’re so strong to carry those enormous backpacks. Form 2, thank you for coming through your gap year, you know what I mean: you are established senior students but don’t have any of the stress of exams, options, coursework deadlines or university applications. I hope you enjoyed the ‘break’ - we know you worked hard and overcame challenges this year! Form 3, thank you for making your first adult decision in life, your options. These will play a small part in forming the person you become and the shape of the journey you take. Form 4, thank you for making a great start to your IGCSEs. Get ready, Form 5 is going to be over before you know it. Form 5, thank you for managing the stress of exams and I hope you all receive the grades you deserve.

50

Lions’ Pride 2023

2022-23 prefects

Upper 6 graduating class for Spirit Week

Lower Sixth, thank you for completing the hardest year

To all the staff, classroom, admin and site, thank you for

of your education so far and surviving. Don’t take your foot

the innumerable ways you go above and beyond for the

off the gas.

students in your care. And finally thank you parents, from the force of nature

And, finally, Upper Sixth, who have left us, not just with

that is the PTA to each and every one of you for giving us the

our thanks but with our blessings and hopes that we have

opportunity to work with your children, for your support through

armoured them well enough to triumph in their coming

the hard times and providing us with the students, environment

adventures.

and resources to complete another year at St. Paul’s.   51

The Lion Magazine, pupil led media By Helena Prado and Bruna Zarzur, The Lion’s editors

This year, our school magazine has developed further,

Some of our other issues included ‘Celebrations and

with writers exploring topics such as the increasing

Festivities,’ with pieces on the World Cup and Christmas,

development of our technological world, diving into

and ‘Halloween’ in October. Our photography section

themes like ‘Winds of Change’, ‘Reflection’, ‘The

accompanied our issues with artistic takes on each theme.

Butterfly Effect,’ and ‘What if’. Our news writers explored

Finally, our audiovisual section saw the greatest growth,

alternative realities as well as the rise of AI and East-West

with the establishment of guided arts and crafts videos,

rivalry, while sports colleagues wrote about ISSL and

technological commentaries and how-to recipes.

Rancho tournaments. The commentary team reported

The Lion also saw further student engagement with end-

on sustainable fashion and opinion articles stemming

of year open letters, crosswords and wordle competitions.

from social media to time travel. Meanwhile, our Features

The Editorial Team is very proud of our writers and their

writers referred to childhood or upcoming movies as well

contributions, and we look forward to their continued

as pop-quizzes.

development next year!

Pupil voice: Senior School Council 2022-2023 By Angela Fregonesi, Assistant Head Pastoral The School Council provides an opportunity for the Senior School pupils to become involved in the school’s decisionmaking process and to help make improvements and changes to school systems, environment and procedures. The entire council electoral process also teaches our pupils about democracy and community spirit as well as helping the candidates to improve the art of public speaking. We have been very fortunate to have had a highly vocal and proactive School Council this year. They have been reliable, respectful, and assertive and have been keen to represent their year group, not just themselves. Well done to all the council repreentatives on a productive academic year. It has been a pleasure to have worked with such sensible role models, such true Lions.

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THIS YEAR’S REPRESENTATIVES F1: Karman Jaspal, Vicky Cunningham, Alice Lotufo F2: Gabriela Musa, Rafael Riechert F3: Anna Beatriz Maciel, Joana Dutra F4 Thomas Bicudo, Anna Sapoznik F5: Adriano Yazigi, Enzo Visintin L6: Catalina Cardoner, Felipe Melzer, Sophia Shor F6 : Non-elected representatives: Term 1: Sofia Slivinskis, Alexia Behar, Matteo Santini (school captain and deputies) Term 2: Daniel Westphalen, Helena Ribeiro do Prado (school captains)

Lions’ Pride 2023

An enriching experience By Lee Sutton, Assistant Head Enrichment We are delighted to have the opportunity to reflect on the enhancing journey on which we have embarked through our various enrichment trips. These experiences have not only broadened our horizons, but have also given us unforgettable memories, valuable lessons, and lasting friendships. On the Form 1 trip to Brotas, we were immersed in the wonders of nature. From adrenaline-inducing water rafting to breath-taking hikes, we discovered the beauty of our natural surroundings. The laughter we shared, the challenges we overcame, and the new-found appreciation of the environment will remain etched in our minds. During the Form 2 trip to Paraty, we were transported to a charming coastal town filled with history and culture. Exploring the cobbled streets, delving into the rich heritage, and embracing the vibrant colors of the local markets, we not only discovered a different way of life but also acquired a deep appreciation for our world’s diversity. The Form 3 Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) trip tested our resilience and determination. Enduring the rugged terrain, navigating through challenging routes, and camping under the stars, we discovered our own strength and pushed beyond our comfort zones. The bonds we forged during those trying moments will long remind us of the power of teamwork and perseverance. The Form 4 Brasilia trip combined history, architecture, and cultural immersion. From marveling at the iconic

landmarks to engaging with the local community, we witnessed the interplay between past and present. This trip gave us a distinctive perspective on the power of human creation and the significance of preserving our heritage. Finally, we must acknowledge the Upper 6th Extended Essay and Internal Assessment retreat, where we delved deep into our research and academic pursuits. In the serene retreat setting, surrounded by like-minded peers, we held productive discussions, sought guidance, and refined our scholarly endeavors. The knowledge gained, the intellectual growth experienced, and the bonds formed with your mentors will prove to be a solid foundation for your future studies. Each of these trips has contributed to our holistic development. They have offered us not only opportunities for adventure and exploration but also moments of selfdiscovery, personal growth, and forging of long-lasting friendships. As we look back on the past academic year, let us reflect on these treasured memories and celebrate the lessons we have learned, the bonds formed, and the growth achieved. Enrichment trips have demonstrated that education extends far beyond the confines of a classroom. Congratulations to all pupils for embracing these amazing learning opportunities, embarking on adventures, and building lasting friendships. May the spirit of exploration, curiosity, and camaraderie continue to guide us in the years ahead.   53

Duke of Edinburgh International Award: the best of being a Paulean By Claudio Zsigmond, DofE Award Coordinator This has been a fantastic year for all DofE participants at

Joaquim Martins (F5) has some tips that he has learned

St. Paul’s, who have been enjoying their Award experience

during his Silver qualifying expedition, such as the

and showing the best of being a Paulean in pursuit of their

importance of teamwork:

Award at all the three levels: Bronze, Silver and Gold. Form 4 Bronze participants have started their DofE journey while still in Form 3 during the trip to Itatiaia National Park, where they had hands-on workshops on compass and map-reading, pitching a tent, camping cooking, packing a rucksack, and the ‘Leave no Trace’ principles. They also had their first DofE hiking experience following the traditional Prateleiras – Couto trail in the park. Pupils were then split into three sub-groups for their qualifying expedition, and three different 2-days/1-night trails: Rancho Caído and Ruy Braga, both at Itatiaia Park, and the S. Francisco Xavier – Mte Verde traverse. At the beginning of March, 39 pupils had successfully completed their Bronze Award. Julia Santana (F4) has written the following reflection after completing her Bronze qualifying expedition:

This was the first time I went camping and it was a challenging but incredible experience. The mountains and river springs were beautiful, I had never been so close to nature for that long. It was great to take some time away from technology. My tent group was very organised and focused. We managed to cook a hot meal successfully, and we organised our tent very quickly. The same goes for my walking group, we were the first ones to be ready to leave the campsite in the morning. There were times when we walked at different paces but, overall, our performance was really good.

This was the most challenging expedition so far. It was a totally different experience as we were near the coast. We faced challenges such as the heat and humidity, which made this a completely different journey to the usual. We also had some first-time experiences, such as crossing rivers with strong currents, with techniques I had never used. Our teamwork was improved along the journey. We had a group of seven, which had varied speeds. Some of the fastest people would go far from the back group, and then wait. But as the hours passed, our tactics changed, and we were able to keep the group closer together. Regarding the ‘Leave-no-Trace’ policy, we didn’t leave any traces. We collected all the trash we produced and even collected trash left on the trail by locals and other users of that space. A record number of twenty eight Lower 6 pupils started their Gold Award as they were joining the Sixth Form, in August 2022. They had their practice expedition last October in one of my favorite locations of all DofE trails, the Serra da Bocaina National Park, on the board between São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro states. They completed their qualifying expedition in June, during the very last days of the academic year. The venue was the breath-taking trail at the Serra do Papagaio State Park (MG), wild camping on the first night at an altitude of 2,400m, on Pico do Garrafão. This special group of adventurous youngsters

Form 5 participants began their Silver Award in March

should complete their Gold Award at the start of Upper

2022, when they were still in Form 4. Twenty-one of these

6, in time to add the unique Award experience for their

brave young people completed this Award level one year

college application process. The text below is two excerpts

later, in March 2023. Their Silver qualifying expedition took

from Helena Prado’s (L6) article for The Lion Magazine and

place last October, in the astonishing but quite challenging

The Paulean newsletter, on the return of her Gold practice

three-day/two-night trail along the Joatinga Ecological

expedition:

Reserve, on the south coast of Rio de Janeiro. 54

Lions’ Pride 2023

Form 5 DofE Silver qualifying trip to Joatinga

Form 4 DofE Bronze qualifying trip to São Francisco Xavier and Monte Verse traverse

Lower 6 DofE Gold practice to Serra da Bocaina

The biggest difficulty in Duke is mental, not physical’. That is what Mr. Zsigmond told us at one of our first Duke of Edinburgh meetings, and it is also what we constantly remembered throughout our Gold Practice Trip as we hiked through 50km of lush vegetation, towering mountains, and several waterfalls in Serra da Bocaina. (…) Looking back on our trip, it is easy to see how Mr. Zsigmond’s statement was correct: the hardest part is not the trail itself but finding the perseverance to continue in the face of challenges like tiredness, rain, and, especially in our case, a group of bulls along the trail. However, we were aided by very helpful staff and by our walking groups, all of whom supported our mental and physical strains, leaving us ready and looking forward to the Qualifying Expedition.

Last but not least, I would like to make a special mention to four never-to-be-forgotten Upper 6 young adults who have joined the select group of Gold Award Certificate holders around the world during their last year at St. Paul’s. I have followed Flavia de Souza’s, Laura Belizia’s, Nina Grieco’s and Rebecca Maccioni’s DofE journey since Bronze Award and it was my privilege to witness their growing to strong adults equipped to a fulfilling life and to making a difference in the world. There is no one better than the Award participants themselves to explain what it means to take part in the DofE scheme! So, I’m looking forward to sharing this unique experience with more pupils over the coming year! And the future is certainly promising, as a new record number of 73 pupils took part in the whole F3 trip to Itatiaia as an introduction to the Duke of Edinburgh International Award in June.

55

Looking back at MUN in 2022-23 by MUN Advisers (Alejandra Melcon Carrasco, Daniel Westphalen, Helena Ribeiro do Prado and Raphael Behar)

Overall, this academic year saw the rebuilding of our MUN

the globe and also visited the prestigious International

community with the rise of in-person conferences and the

Criminal Court, being welcomed by one of the court’s

growth of our delegates. The year 2022 began with AveMUN,

defence attorneys. We also enjoyed cultural visits, such as to

at which St. Paul’s pupils were either chairs or delegates in

the Rijksmuseum and Anne Frank’s house in Amsterdam, as

the Security Council, Human Rights Council, ECOSOC, Trial

well as the city centre in The Hague and concluded the trip

Committee, and more.

with a college visit.

In December, the school held its own SPsMUN

In March, pupils and four St. Paul’s chairs attended

conference, welcoming eight other schools and some

BRAMUN in Costa do Sauípe, Bahia alongside 11 delegates.

150 pupils with several St. Paul’s attendees and members

Most of the latter won awards such as Best Delegation and

of the leadership. Our conference theme was ‘The times

Best Speaker while also attending fun conference activities

are changing, and we are changing with them’ and

such as the knowledge bowl, Zumba, and volleyball. In this

committees ranged from the Vietnam War, as a historical

conference, committees ranged from UN councils to ‘The

committee to the Song of Ice and Fire, as a special. Other

war against artificial intelligence, ‘The united fronts of

local conferences St. Paul’s attended included DanteMUN

China’ and ‘The UK Parliament’.

and Graded MUN.

56

This academic year, MUN Society continued developing

In January, Lower 6 pupils travelled to The Hague in the

as our delegates honed their debate and research skills

Netherlands to attend THIMUN, one of the world’s largest

through several conferences. As advisers, we hope MUN

conferences, where we represented Israel and Monaco. We

society continues to grow and that delegates learn more at

had the opportunity to debate with delegates from across

each conference in which they take part.

Lions’ Pride 2023

Ana Jabur (F3):

Mariana Gurevich (F5):

MUN has taught me the importance of diplomacy and of

MUN has taught me many valuable skills. My public

knowing how to influence the way people think about something,

speaking, confidence and research abilities have developed

as well as providing a deeply fulfilling and fun activity which

tremendously throughout this past academic year, and it has

both challenges me academically and allows me to meet new

been an eye-opening experience to find out more about the

people and make more diverse friendships in the process.

world, diplomacy and international relations.

Anna Spritzer Sapoznik (F4):

Gregório Pozzo (L6):

I learnt how to put myself in other’s positions as well as

MUN brought me many experiences that I will be fond of

extending my research and debating skills.

for the rest of my life. Also, it brought me extremely valuable friendships while broadening my horizons and helping me to grow as a person.

Cláudia Gontijo (F4): I have gained a lot of knowledge about diplomacy and honed my abilities in public speaking, while immersed in enriching experiences and cultivating valuable friendships.

Rafael Zema (L6): Lessons and skills that I learned nowhere else and the unique experience of attending the prestigious THIMUN conference.

Joana Pastore (L6): After my experience in THIMUN, I finally understood the

Sofia Costa Franco (L6):

importance of MUN through a global scope and it provided

This year in MUN, I had the unique chance of learning from my

me with valuable insights into collaborative problem-solving

peers, and forming everlasting friendships with fascinating,

and establishing international relations with others from my

like-minded individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds - it

committee.

truly was the opportunity of a lifetime.

A farewell, by Mr Sousa “As I was working on this text, I wondered what to write about MUN that hasn’t already been said”. With these exact words, I started one of my first Annual Review articles as Model United Nations Director at St. Paul’s, a role I took way back in 2015. And, with the same feeling I stand, looking at the screen, not being able to fully express how grateful I am for the opportunity to have worked with so many talented pupils and colleagues over the years. Mindful of this, and with the continuous firm belief that pupils ought to be the focus of MUN (and education as a whole), I won’t extend myself too much on this farewell text. It would be unjust, however, to finish this eight-year-journey without giving a proper thanks to the school’s SLT, for the support; to members of staff, who have given up their time to aid me and pupils on trips and events across Brazil and abroad; to parents, for trusting me to guide and take care of their children; and, finally, to delegates and MUN Advisers, who put their very best into this activity, grew, thrived and continuously amazed me over the years. Quoting an Old Paulean on the previously mentioned article, “MUN has been incredible”.

57

Senior School

A year of strong CAS projects By Lee Sutton, Assistant Head Enrichment Charity and community service are extremely important at St. Paul’s, as they teach our pupils compassion and empathy, that they form part of a larger community, and that we are responsible for everyone around us. Our strong programme of outreach activities makes us more aware of the world we live in, and teaches us to care for those who are less fortunate. We invited various pupils to write about their projects.

St. Paul’s Girl Up “Girl Up” is an initiative which focusses on equity for girls and women in spaces where they are unheard or underrepresented. During the pandemic, in 2020, two St. Paul’s pupils decided to bring Girl Up to St. Paul’s as a CAS activity. During the past three years, the group has expanded throughout Senior School. Since then, we have had some 50 members joining the club. Support us by following our Instagram: @girlupstpauls

Projeto Fluir This year, “Projeto Fluir” has successfully bought and donated over 80,000 pads to women in need in Jardim Pantanal - a community near São Paulo. This was carried out on six different distribution dates, the first in August and most recently, in June. To do so, we joined forces with an incredible organisation called Integra, which donates 1,000 basic needs boxes to families in this community every month. To raise funds and acquire hygiene products, we organized two menstrual product drives at school, both of which were a great success!

TUCCA This year, the TUCCA St. Paul’s Enrichment Programme showed exceptional resilience. Our expanded network of scholars and ties with the NGO broadened our reach and impact. This year was crucial for our development as our stand embodied our cause and ethos on International Day, engaging the wider school community. Each achievement was a testament to our commitment to growth amidst adversity, and this year’s rebuild sets us up for even greater success in the future.

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Sanitary pad donations organised by Projeto Fluir for Combating Violence Against Women Week

Lions’ Pride 2023

Mãos na Massa

Project Gold

Projeto Mãos na Massa is a government-recognised

Project Gold is a non-profit organisation led by St. Pauls

NGO dedicated to building housing for disabled people

students founded in 2016. This term, Project Gold hosted

who are socially vulnerable. Over the past year, the

their annual “I Play for Them” event with the para-

project has expanded beyond the St. Paul’s community

athletes from CRIA Brasil. The event took place in April

by integrating members of St. Francis. The year was

and included our traditional 5km and 3km runs, along

marked by the completion of Dona Cida’s home and our

with shorter 50m and 100m races in both male and female

partnership with Fundação Julita to make their campus

categories. The day was an excellent opportunity for

more accessible and subsequently expand their impact.

staff, students, and parents to get together and support

However, the St Paul’s community remains essential for

our cause: promoting inclusion in sport. With the event,

the Project, as the relaunching of the Quiz Night along

Project Gold raised a total of R$17,000 for CRIA Brasil;

with the realisation of the Copa OneGoal would not have

this money will be invested in training equipment, as it

been possible without the continued support of this

is extremely hard for these para-athletes to have acess

community.

to quality training resources and to compete in sporting events.

One Goal:

WETEACH

One Goal is a non-profit project founded by five young visionary students who were driven to create global

This year, “We Teach” immersed more teachers in the

impact. Each month, we target a specific social issue,

project and grown our partnership with FAZ and Barra do

launching engaging campaigns involving individuals

Una for our virtual English lessons. We have also sought

and companies to address pressing challenges in our

to help our students beyond the classroom through

community. Since September 2020, we have successfully

Christmas and Easter donations while also holding a

carried out more than 30 campaigns, raising over

donation drive for Samuel, one of our Barra do Una

R$1,500,000. Our mission extends beyond Brazil, aiming

pupils who lost his house in the February floods. With

to inspire and empower young people worldwide to

this, our teachers travelled to Barra do Una with trucks

become agents of change. Through strategic evaluation

of donation, providing a new computer to help Samuel’s

and collaboration, we maximise the impact of funds

studies. We also heard Samuel’s and his family’s account

raised, fostering sustainable solutions. One Goal

of the events and the items they lost. We thank everyone

exemplifies the potential of youth-led initiatives to effect

who helped the project this year and look forward to its

transformative change in the world.

further development next year! 59

Senior School

Busy year in the Art Department By Simone Rebelo, Head of Art For the first time, every single pupil and some teachers taking art had the opportunity to attend one or more workshops delivered by a professional in the field or an Old Paulean, clay portrait sculpture, digital design, set design, video mapping and wire sculpture to mention a few. Workshops happened not only during arts week but throughout the year. It is important for pupils to acknowledge and have contact with different ideas, points of view and creative processes so they can identify their own individual paths. As always, they experimented with and explored various materials, to encourage pupils’ curiosity and sense of discovery, learning that mistakes are part of the process as well as problemsolving. This year we say goodbye to Mrs Blackaby after four years in the Senior School. She has been well-known and loved by pupils and staff, always ready to contribute with ideas, a team player, highly organised, talented and a real hands-on person. It is hard to say goodbye to her for the second time. We shall miss her, and we wish her all the best with her new journey in the north of Brazil! We also say welcome to Mr Muller (Head of Computer Science) who is joining forces with the Art Department with his graphic design and digital art experience. The year ahead will be exciting, full of changes in the curriculum combining the best of digital and traditional art!

68

Clay sculpture workshop

Lions’ Pride 2023

Some of the works produced this year

69

Senior School

Senior pupils’ music success By Vanessa Hewitt, Head of Music - Senior School The Senior School Music Department has had an eventful year,

performances were a particular crowd-pleaser, and the live

with various successes to celebrate. The Senior Recital Evening

Karaoke provided much fun and entertainment for all.

was a lovely way to commence the first live performances since

To commemorate the ‘King’s Coronation’ in May this year,

school returned to normal after the pandemic. Our IGCSE

the Music Department worked tirelessly to put on a large-scale

and Sixth Form music students led the way, welcoming the

concert with a British theme. Students and staff performed

opportunity to show off their hard work and talent to an intimate

exceptionally well, with a variety of bands and soloists

audience of selected staff, parents’, and peers early in the school

showcasing a range of British artists for the whole school to

year.

enjoy. A highlight was the three separate mixed choirs formed

Yet again, the Carol Service set the scene for a full congregation

by our wonderful Form 1, 2 and 3 students who combined to

of festive celebrations. The service involved a broad range of the

compete in the House Choir round. After all the votes had

school community. It was a particularly lovely opportunity for

been counted, Tudor House were the proud winners of this

the senior and junior choirs to join the staff choir.

category, and we congratulate all the students who took part

Many students sat The London College of Music theory and practical examinations, and this year, we had a record number of

Huge thanks go out to our passionate music teachers.

‘Distinctions’ achieved by the theory candidates. As expected,

These events, as well as numerous other smaller performances

the IGCSE, BTEC and IB music students also scored highly in

throughout the year, would not be possible without the hard

their studies.

work and dedication of our wonderful team, who work tirelessly

In April, we celebrated Arts Week. The lunchtime student

70

and performed in this very memorable celebration.

to support our talented students.

Lions’ Pride 2023

Senior Drama Annual Review By Rodrigo Seidl, Head of Drama This year saw the Drama Department slowly return to full-scale

close collaboration with the Art Department to create a painted

productions after the limitations imposed by the pandemic. We

set that was projected on to screens through the use of digital

were able to put on a modernised production of Shakespeare’s

technology. Here is a short reflection from two cast members:

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” in term one. This play featured

From the perspective of both audience and actor alike, ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ was among the favorite performances that have been put on at St. Paul’s. Between the play’s acting, singing, production, and engaging plot, the performance was enjoyable to watch and delightful to be in. However, despite the eventual adoration that the cast developed for Our Dream (as we called it), it must also be noted that when the play was announced, many of us were hesitant. Having studied this play in English lessons, we were trapped in the notion that Shakespeare performances can only be done in one way, which has been repeated throughout time, and of which both audience and actor have grown tired. However, we quickly rid ourselves of this notion and embarked on a memorable journey of making the play our own. From the humour-filled scenes of the Players, to Lysander and Demetrius’ British accents, to Oberon’s recitation of the spell from Disney’s Tangled, we can confidently state that our performance of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” was like no other, and one we are proud to call our own. This taught us all the important lesson that there is no formula for the living entity that is theatre - it must be created only through emotion and imagination. By Ana Lúcia Gomes and Sofia Costa Franco – L6

We have also seen an increase in the number of pupils

exams. Meanwhile, the Lower 6th IB pupils - the largest cohort

choosing drama in the IGCSE and IB years which has allowed

we have had in a while - put on an amazing and professional IB

us to put on more public performances of pupils’ coursework

Evening of Theatre during Arts Week. The evening featured a

pieces. Both Form 4 and 5 have shown their talents in several

collection of short plays, some of which were created and written

showcase evenings throughout the year. The Form 5 cohort was

by the pupils. They directed each other and made all the design

particularly impressive in performing their originally-devised

decisions.

pieces that displayed their growing maturity as theatre artists. We are sure they will go on to achieve great results in their

We look forward to next year to build upon the amazing work that our pupils and teachers have done in 2022-2023!

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Whole School

Themed weeks! Throughout the year, themed weeks provided an inspiring opportunity to reflect on various themes and raise awareness about them. From Arts and Reading week, when the school is invaded by songs, art-works and pupils and staff in book character costumes, to Maths and Careers Week. Look at all the busy (and some fun) weeks we have had this past year.

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Lions’ Pride 2023

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Whole School

A memorable year for Sport by Shaun Banham, Diretor of Sports 2022-23

This year, fortunately, the cancellations and onerous rules (such

Our Senior School pupils had their Sport’s Day cancelled in

became, at least for now, a thing of the past. It is therefore with

December owing to Brazil’s advancement in the 2022 World

immense gratitude that we can reflect on this past year, and what

Cup. The wet weather also got in the way of our second date

a year it’s been!

here at St Paul’s, but the PE department had a plan B, and pupils

When I arrived at St Paul’s last August, one of my first duties

were able to compete in various indoor activities such as dance,

was to welcome Marcos Moraes and his M7 football coaching

dodgeball, indoor rowing, basketball, tug of war and table tennis

team to our department. I was also tasked with supporting our

for their houses. Well done to Windsor who won the day.

relatively new Cesar Cielo swimming programme led by Rodrigo

The competitive sports programme is extensive for our Senior

and Homero. They can be proud of their achievement this year

School pupils, and I am in awe of how they juggle the commitments

and will be looking to build on the very successful swimming

of travel, training, fixtures, and tournaments with the demands of

galas with many more pupils next year. The year ended perfectly

the IGCSE and IB courses. Our coaches have provided a summary

with a special visit from Cesar Cielo himself. Not only did he

of all the seasons below for you to scrutinise but here are a few

dazzle us all with his swimming skills he also demonstrated what

of my personal highlights: our Varsity Basketball teams, led by

a gentleman he was by spending his time with pupils.

Rodrigo Prado and Priscilla Tibeiro, achieved great results: second

Our Pre-Prep team, of Mrs Fletcher and Miss Laguna, have

place for our girls and first place for our boys at the “Final Four”, a

worked wonders in sparking the enthusiasm and joy in physical

tournament that includes many of the top American International

education among our young Pauleans. It was a pleasure to

schools. It was a testament to their hard work and dedication. The

welcome parents back to the school site after such a long absence

Futsal Varsity boys also qualified for the “Final Four” in season

for Pre-Prep Sports Day in May. As a parent myself, it was magical

2 and travelled to Rio. It is particularly pleasing that many JVs

to watch my child try his best for his class and to win a medal!

stepped up to prove their worth in this tournament.

In Prep School, Mrs Moraes and Mr Geraldes have propelled

Finally, it was a pleasure to host the first live Sports Awards

our pupils to new heights by refining key skills while teaching a

since 2019. The PTA helped me beyond all expectations to get

deeper understanding of rules and tactics. They kicked off our

this event back up and running. Well done to all award winners,

first Sports Day in October which was an event that revealed

you fully deserved it!

how talented and committed our Prep pupils are. They were also treated to the very first ‘Kindness World Cup’. I’m sure that they

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will all look back on that event with fondness!

as wearing masks while playing) that accompanied the pandemic

Lions’ Pride 2023

Senior School Sports Day

Swimming gala from the Cesar Cielo Swimming programme

Prep School Sports Day

Prep School Sports Day

Kindness World Cup for Prep pupils

Sports Awards

Sports Awards 75

Whole School

BASKETBA LL Our Prep and F1/F2 boys have continued to take part in

two-time champions, a title that placed them in “Final Four” being

friendly games and festivals, preparing to soon be in the older

the first national champion school. They also won the Graded

categories. They were extremely resilient and overcame all

Invitational tournament undefeated.

difficulties, remaining focused and evolving, playing excellently against Brazilian clubs and schools.

The Junior Varsity girls’ basketball team had an exceptional season, as they emerged victorious in both the JV league and the

Our JV Boys won the SPHSL undefeated for the second season in a row and, in Little 8, we finished second, losing the final just

Little 8 championship. They displayed remarkable teamwork, skill and determination in all matches.

by three points to EARJ. Our Varsity boys’ basketball team once

The Varsity girl’s basketball team also had an inspiring season,

again had a brilliant season, playing four competitions, reaching all

achieving great success in multiple tournaments. They were

finals and winning 3 titles. At SPHSL we finished second, losing the

crowned champions of the ISSL tournament and secured second

final to Graded School in overtime. At ISSL, they were undefeated

place in both the “Final Four” and SPHSL competitions.

COACHES’ PLAYER OF THE SEASON VARSITY GIRLS

VARSITY BOYS

JV GIRLS

JV BOYS

Carolina Mendes Caldeira

Matteo Alvarez Santini

Maria Clara Lanzelotti

Rafael Hartmann

MOST IMPROVED PLAYER OF THE SEASON VARSITY GIRLS

VARSITY BOYS

JV GIRLS

JV BOYS

Victoria Hassun

Felipe Rodrigues

Nina Sales

Lucas Lafeldt

VOL L EYBA L L This year we have had many achievements from our volleyball

last, but certainly not least, our Boys’ Varsity team has shown

teams throughout this season. It has been a journey full of

great determination. Their hard work on the court was rewarded

determination and, above all, teamwork. Our Junior Varsity

with a remarkable third place in the ISSL and SPHSL.

teams’ hard work and commitment to excellence led them to

As we celebrate these achievements, we must not forget that

third place with the boys and first place with the girls in the

success is not just about the final score. It’s about the hard work,

SPHSL and the Hebraica Cup.

commitment, improvement, and dedication we put into every

The Girls’ Varsity team demonstrated exceptional skills

practice and every game. It’s about the bonds we form as a

throughout the season. Their commitment to their work was

team, the lessons we learn from our victories and losses, and the

exceptional, leading them to second place in the SPHSL. And

growth we experience as individuals.

COACHES’ PLAYER OF THE SEASON VARSITY GIRLS

VARSITY BOYS

JV GIRLS

JV BOYS

Isadora Ruiz

Vittorio Fasano

Maria Clara Lanzelotti

Ilan Mizne

MOST IMPROVED PLAYER OF THE SEASON

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VARSITY GIRLS

VARSITY BOYS

JV GIRLS

JV BOYS

Stella Neubauer

Benjamin Mizne

Helena Pinheiro

Elias Schlesinger

Lions’ Pride 2023

FO OTBA LL It was the first season for the coaching staff at St. Paul’s, so the start was challenging for both sides. Coaches strove to

the girls. In the ISSL, we secured fourth place with the girls and fifth place with the boys.

understand the workings of the school as quickly as possible,

As for the JV team, unfortunately, we couldn’t qualify for

and athletes were getting accustomed to new training methods.

the final phase with the girls, but they played great games and

Ultimately, after a phase of overcoming obstacles and

showed marked improvement throughout the semester. With

investing effort, we managed to reach the final with the Varsity

the boys, we lost in the semifinals, but their commitment and

Boys, but ended as the runners-up in a thrilling and intense

dedication were never lacking. In the Little 8, we achieved

match at Graded. With the Varsity Girls, we reached the

fourth place with the boys and fifth place with the girls.

semifinals but lost on penalties after a great performance by

COACHES’ PLAYER OF THE SEASON VARSITY GIRLS

VARSITY BOYS

JV GIRLS

JV BOYS

Alice Zelmanovits

Lucas Zelmanovits

Beatriz Zelmanovits

Luca Celico Leite

MOST IMPROVED PLAYER OF THE SEASON VARSITY GIRLS

VARSITY BOYS

JV GIRLS

JV BOYS

Catalina Cardoner

Henrique Biolchini

Maria Clara Lanzelotti

Felipe Stingelin

FUTSA L The futsal season brought great achievements for all our

game with just five players.

teams at St. Paul’s School. It was an incredible season filled

The Varsity Girls played outstanding games and

with thrilling matches. The Varsity Boys reached two out of

delivered an excellent first phase. Unfortunately, we lost in

three possible finals. In both the SPHSL and ISSL, we ended

the semifinals in the final seconds of overtime.

as runners-up, but that doesn’t diminish the merit of our

In the JV category, we won the JV League title with the

accomplishments. The runner-up position in the ISSL qualified

boys and secured runner-up in the position with the girls.

us, for the first time, for the “Final Four” competition in Rio

Both teams had a fantastic semester, displaying great

de Janeiro. Unfortunately, we lost in the penalty shootout in

performance in every match.

the semifinals, but it was a brave effort as we played the entire

COACHES’ PLAYER OF THE SEASON VARSITY GIRLS

VARSITY BOYS

JV GIRLS

JV BOYS

Laura Pereira

Gabriel Magalhães

Beatriz Zelmanovits

Felipe Zelmanovits

MOST IMPROVED PLAYER OF THE SEASON VARSITY GIRLS

VARSITY BOYS

JV GIRLS

JV BOYS

Stella Neubauer

Gabriel Cohen

Maria Clara Lanzelotti

Jonah Reade

77

The Common Room: Arrivals DIRETORIA

Pedro Paulo Siqueira Diretor Oficial

WHOLE SCHOOL Junior Rocha (Learning Support Intervention assistant), Natalie Merkel (Learning Support Intervention assistant) and Vanessa Hewitt (Head of Music Senior School).

PRE-PREP SCHOOL Class teacher: Maria Solorzano Melo Class assistants: Fabiola Glashan, Fernanda Andrade, Francine Franco, Jose Pessoa, Maria Eduarda de Mello and Renato Soboll.

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Lions’ Pride 2023

PREP SCHOOL Class teacher: Elizabeth Smith, Joshua Edwards, Sarah de Souza, Thais Souza (Portuguese teacher) and Thamirez Santos (Portuguese teacher). Class assistants: Alexia Biafora, Amanda Morosini, Andrew Ouma, Brigida Argiona, Fabiana Melchior, Giovanna Salla, Jessica Iogolia, Julia Durbano, Juliana Celentano, Lavinia Biselli, Raphaela Costa, Stephen Conacher and Vitoria Perrone.

SENIOR SCHOOL

Alison Ashman (Assistant Head of Learning & Teaching), Amy Jordon (Head of Science), Brena Moura (Portuguese teacher), Daniel Hall (English teacher), Daniel Pereira (Science teacher), Graeme Rodgers (Head of History), João Bosco Feitosa (Geography teacher), Marcos Eduardo Muller (Head of Computer Science), Mariana Corullon (Spanish teacher), Mark Grantham-Hill (Biology teacher), Peter Green (Science teacher) and Sophie Stocks (English teacher).

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF Alan Brito (Accounting manager), Daniel Gobira (Accounting analyst), Felipe Sokolovsky (Head of Security), Fernando Munin (Engineering and Maintenance Coordinator), Hadassa Itepan (Librarian), Larissa Santos (Library Assistant), Mariana Cabral (Learning Support secretary), Marina Muniz (Alumni and Communications analyst), Milena Rosa (Administrative assistant), Priscila Gutierrez (Data analysis assistant), Rita Delicato (Events and Extra Curricular Activities secretary), Rodrigo Gonçalves (Accounting analyst), Sarah Miranda (HR assistant), Stephanie Sippli (Development Coordinator for St. Paul’s Foundation) and Vitoria Lago (Brazilian Secretary administrative assistant). 83

The Common Room: Departures WHOLE SCHOOL

Mr Shaun Banham was a diligent and committed Director of Sport. He built great working relationships with his colleagues in the PE Department and we know they will miss him. A highlight of his time here was the Senior School Sports Day, which saw pupils and staff involved in the house spirit and soul. It was great to see our coaches and PE staff being celebrated by pupils throughout the year. We wish him and his family the very best as they move to Egypt!

Miss Andrea Chang Learning Support assistant

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Lions’ Pride 2023

JUNIOR SCHOOL

Mrs Ana Beatriz Franco worked at the school for 21 years and over that time she made a lot of friends who depended on her professionalism, support and fashion tips, as she was flawlessy dressed every day. As a loyal member of staff, Ana spent time as a PrePrep and Prep teacher and also as a learning intervention teacher. We are thankful for all her work and will deeply miss her.

Mrs Pollyana Laguna has literally been at the school for an entire lifetime. She studied at St. Paul’s and was a girl scout while she was a pupil, and for the last twenty years, worked as a teacher in the Prep and Pre-Prep School. Over this time, Polly made a strong impression on her colleagues – for her messy cooking skills but also for her highspirited energy, kindness and hard work. Her colleagues and pupils will miss her adventurous nature as she embarks on what will probably be her life’s biggest adventure as she moves to Germany.

Class teacher: Ms Laura Degani Class assistants: Beatriz Lissker, Bettina Leme, Carolina Scatamacchia, Julia Valencia, Karina Koo, Luana Viana, Luiza Alves, Mattheus Ramos, Michel da Silva Oliveira, Nura Abdouni, Olyvia Homci and Victoria Laguna.

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The Common Room: Departures

SENIOR SCHOOL

Ms Lucy Gillam definitely had a decidedly positive impact on every single person she met, with her bubbly and enthusiastic personality. Having her as a colleague made all of our days were a little brighter. She will be missed for her nurturing and kind personality. We wish Lucy all the best in her new endeavours!

Mrs Lisa Blackaby is very well known to the many Pauleans who spent time in the Art Department. Lisa had previously been at the school for 22 years before returning in 2019 for a further four years. She was a dedicated and hardworking teacher who was also a super organiser! We wish her all the best as she finally puts down her paintbrushes for good and hope she’ll come back often to visit us.

Mrs Molly Davyson arrived at the school in 2019 and soon after, took up the challenge of becoming a Head of Year right in the middle of the pandemic. She took all of this in their stride with zero fuss and her typical caring touch. She has been key to developing and planning for Key Stage 3 at the school and successfully juggled her school duties well with her recent motherhood. We wish the best for her, her husband and baby Isaac as they move to Spain!

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Lions’ Pride 2023

Ms Andrea Kruger was a wonderful colleague and an inspiring teacher. She worked to maintain a good and safe working environment and immediately became an integral part of her team in the English Department. She will be remembered not only her ability to fluently switch between US and British spelling but also for her responsibility and understanding of what integrity truly means.

Ms Rowenna Menzies and her family were a lively presence over the last couple of years. She worked in various sectors with numerous levels and learner types, but always strove to inject an energetic sense of fun the classroom to facilitate learning. The school will miss her engaging, creative and productive energy. We wish her the best as she takes on her new role in China!

Mr Carlos Arriola was the first Guatemalan in the Maths department, and quickly became an integral part of the team. He made a tremendous impact during his time with us and brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the department. He built a strong relationship with his pupils and, beyond the classroom, has also shown himself to be a person of strong moral values. We have no doubt he will continue to thrive and inspire those around him.

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The Common Room: Departures

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

Sandra Abatepaulo first arrived at St. Paul’s School in 1988. Since then, she has made a huge contribution to the school as registrar while pupil numbers increased and countless new families have been welcomed into the St. Paul’s community. We are positive many hundreds of Pauleans will have their own memories of Sandra and reasons to be ever grateful for her kindness, patience and commitment.

Sílvia Fortes Siqueira has served as our Diretora Oficial for over 21 years. She leaves us to enjoy a wellearned retirement, having done so much to ensure that our pupils’ achievements are recognised by the Brazilian educational authorities, and that St. Paul’s successfully blends our British curriculum with the state regulatory framework. Although much of her work has been carried out within the relatively cloistered environment of the Office of Brazilian Secretary, its importance to the future of the pupils and to the school as a whole is hard to overstate.

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Lions’ Pride 2023

Veronica Costa started at school in 2003 as a Financial Assistant and, over the years, she developed and carried out her activities with great rigour and care, seeking to help everyone with her customary efficiency. After 20 years of single-minded commitment to the school, her time here has come to an end. We wish her every happiness, secure in the knowledge that behind this big change of pace, there will be many good things to discover.

Marcio Trigo joined St Paul’s in 2019 and made a major impact on unleashing IT team’s potential and giving it visibility. We are all extremely thankful for all his efforts and wish him the very best in his future career.

Administrative assistants: Ana Carolina Bernardinelli, Annabel Ladalardo and Renan Moreira. 89

Dra Silvia Siqueira, a legacy at Diretoria Brasileira By Verena Ferreira, PR & Marketing manager Silvia Fortes Siqueira is a member of the St. Paul’s community who will long remain in our memory. With her PhD in Bilingual Education, she has held the role of Diretora Oficial of the school for 21 years, working hard to make our pupils’ work and achievements recognised in Brazil. Together with the Brazilian secretaries team, Silvia led some key projects during the course of her Paulean journey, such as the insertion of an additional year in the Ensino Fundamental, several curriculum adjustments, and the implementation of the new Ensino Médio. As she departs as Diretora not just at St. Paul’s but also at other international schools, Silvia now retires with much accumulated experience and accomplishments. In this interview, she shares some of her memories. Tell us about your trajectory at St. Paul’s. ​​​​​​​

of schooling. In this way, the school was able to integrate IB

I came to St. Paul’s after the sudden death of the then diretora,

graduation with the Ensino Médio graduation.

Silvia Barreto. A diretora, who used to work at Chapel,

Next, we introduced the new Ensino Médio to the Brazilian

recommended me for the position. I had just returned from

curriculum. My experience meant it was an effortless

the USA with a PhD in Bilingual Education, and St. Paul’s

transition because Brazilian legislation based the new

found it interesting and called me in. Once in post, it took

curriculum on IB curriculum principles. To enable that

me a while to get to know the school. After that, everything

adaptation, I worked with Mrs Martina [Oparaocha, Head of

worked well over the ensuing 21 years as Diretora Oficial.

Senior School] and Mr Edge. They gave me the necessary space to explain what was needed and then make the

Tell us about a few historical moments that you have lived

changes. I was dedicated to this project because I prepared

in St. Paul’s.

the same modification for the three schools where I used to

In 2006, with the addition of a further school year in the

work, each one with its specific characteristics.

Brazilian curriculum’s Ensino Fundamental, we began work on the necessary adaptations year to year, ultimately completing all nine years that the new system required. Many schools chose to promote all the pupils – not for the first year, but for the second, so there was just one school transcript. At St. Paul’s, by contrast, we had to maintain two school transcripts because our approach was different – pupils who had begun studying when the rules required only eight years of Ensino Fundamental had the right to finish it in eight years. Those who started when the rules had changed to the nine-year arrangement had to complete it after nine years

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I feel that my trajectory at the school was successful

Lions’ Pride 2023

We also changed the deadline age for children to enter the

fondly remember events where I was introduced to authorities

first year of Ensino Fundamental (from March 31 to June 30),

and celebrities, like the British Consul, Mick Jagger, the

pooling our efforts with other English language schools to

footballer Kaká, and the singer Dinho Ouro Preto. Another

appeal to the Conselho Estadual de Educação.

memory is the visit by Renato Nalini, the São Paulo State Secretary for Education in 2018. He enjoyed visiting us so

How did you overcome the daily cultural differences in

much that he complimented to the school in his newspaper

your occupation?

column. Seeing the school being recognised as an exponent

I think we must empathise with others. For example, Brazilian

of education in São Paulo was beautiful.

authorities aren’t seeking to make schools’ life difficult. But they don’t understand the reality of our institutions. So,

How do you see the school in the future?

building bridges between Brazilian and British authorities

It must continue to be a school of excellence which prepares

is vital.

good pupils for higher education in Brazil and abroad. I

The first Headmaster I worked with was Mr Benamar.

also see more pupils taking part in competitions like Maths,

He had already been Headmaster at a French school in

Biology, Chemistry and Physics Olympics, in the Parlamento

England, so he fully recognised my position. Next, came Mr

Jovem, and in many other enrichment opportunities for

Row, with whom I worked closely, helping him understand

pupils. The scholarship programme also has everything it

the expectations. He was interested in participating in

needs to grow and benefit more Brazilian pupils.

all phases of the job, whether in meetings with Brazilian authorities, visiting other Brazilian schools, and so on.

What are your retirement plans?

Our next head was Ms Simpson, underwhose headship

I intend to spend more time at my beach house, and welcome

we integrated the Brazilian and British social studies

my children, grandchildren and friends with more time and

curriculums and the Portuguese and English grammar

calm. One thing is sure: I will not need to set my alarm clock

curriculums. It was a magnificent project of which I’m

in the morning. I also intend to dedicate myself to writing

proud. I’ve always respected St. Paul’s philosophy, which is

which I adore. I’m part of Academia Itanhaense de Letras. Ms

continually recognised as one of Brazil’s best schools.

Simpson always said I should write a book about Bilingual Education, but I have already written many articles, and now

What are your best memories of St. Paul’s School?

that this experience is concluded, I want to, instead, write

I leave the school with the conviction that I did my best. I

children’s books about my kitten.   91