School Spirit
ISS Houses
How it works
What is the House System?
The ISS Houses is a house system designed to build community and encourage teamwork. Students are divided into “houses,” which include members from various grade levels of the IB Framework to foster mentorship and collaboration.
For now, our ISS Houses participate in athletic competition, and we are planning to expand to include academic and social aspects in the system starting next academic year.
Every student belongs to a house, enhancing the sense of belonging and camaraderie. This structure promotes a healthy, friendly rivalry, deepening connections among students.
Friendly Competition
Inter-house events promote healthy rivalry, encouraging students to strive for excellence in academics, sports, and arts. This motivates participation while emphasising collaboration and fair play for the students.
Community
Houses create a sense of belonging by grouping students across different grades. This fosters connections, breaks down barriers, and helps everyone feel part of a community.
Leadership
Students can take on leadership roles such as house captains or event organizers. These roles teach responsibility, decision-making, and teamwork to the students.
School Spirit
ISS Houses
International Sharing School also has a system of organising students into 4 “Houses”, named after themes inspired by the natural richness of Madeira Island.
The Atlantic is a united House where mutual support is valued and every task is shared with joy. The color blue, a symbol of harmony and trust, reflects the spirit of this fun group that supports all its members.
Our House has a wonderful bunch of dedicated, friendly and caring students varying in age, talent, culture and interests. We enjoy supporting each other and we always try our best.
Levada House is named after the famous levadas of Madeira, beautiful water channels that flow through the island, bringing water to different places and helping nature grow. Like the levadas, Levada House stands for teamwork, perseverance, and helping others.
We are the house of kindness and determination. Represented by the vibrant yellow of the bird of paradise, we shine with bright energy and a positive spirit. Whether we win or lose, we always wear a smile and lift each other up.
“Every new day is a chance to rise, to grow, to lead. Not guided by luck, but providing every move with purpose by carrying each other through struggle, through triumph, through moments of hope.”
“The House System is really good as it allows us to connect with people from different ages. It has a good impact on students because the students are able to make connections and relationships in school.”
“The House system creates a strong sense of community, where students of all ages support each other and grow through friendly competition. Being part of Levada has taught me the importance of teamwork and school spirit.”
“The Houses gives us a space to grow as individuals and as leaders, while celebrating each other’s efforts and successes. Throughout friendly competitions, shared goals, and everyday support, we create special bonds within us.”
Best Events ever
What our Captains Say
Hear firsthand from our students, the captains, about their thoughts on the house system. From developing leadership skills to building lasting friendships, their ideals highlight the positive impact of being part of the ISS Houses.
How can we help you?
Frequently Asked Questions
Before you send your message, we can provide some answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. We hope these help you decide to join our school community.
Do you have further questions?
We have ISS Houses Activity Days where students participate in service-based activities or team-building exercises. On these days, additional activities such as chess competitions, speed jigsaw puzzle solving, STEM projects, art competitions, media groups, sporting competitions, and general knowledge quizzes take place, allowing participants to earn House points.
The annual Sports Day is a highlight, showcasing sporting excellence and encouraging participation at all levels to gain points for the ISS Houses. As the House system continues to develop and grow, we plan to introduce activities such as House Music, House Drama, and House Debates.
ISS Houses are mixed-gender and include students from various year groups. The school strives to keep siblings in the same House to foster camaraderie.
House points are accumulated throughout the year and contribute towards the prestigious House Cup, awarded at the end of the school year. These points are not only earned through competitions but also through demonstrating positive behaviours and embodying the school’s core attributes.
Students can earn House points by participating in various activities, showing leadership, helping others, and displaying exemplary conduct both in and out of the classroom. This system encourages students to strive for excellence and fosters a sense of community and healthy competition.
The House Cup is a symbol of collective achievement and celebrates the hard work, dedication, and positive contributions of all ISS Houses members.