School Spirit
ISS Houses
How it works
Understanding the House System
At ISS Madeira, our House System is designed to strengthen community bonds and promote teamwork. Students are assigned to a house that includes members from different grade levels, encouraging mentorship and collaboration.
Currently, houses compete in athletic events, with plans to expand competitions to academic and social activities in the coming academic year. Every student is part of a house, fostering a sense of belonging and friendly rivalry that builds lasting connections.
Healthy Competition
Inter-house events inspire friendly rivalry, motivating students to excel in academics, sports, and the arts while promoting teamwork and fair play.
Community
Houses connect students from different grades, fostering friendships, collaboration, and a strong sense of belonging across the school.
Leadership
Students can assume leadership roles, such as house captains or event coordinators, developing responsibility, teamwork, and decision-making skills.
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.”
Top House Experiences
Voices from Our Captains
Listen to our student captains share their experiences in the ISS Houses System. From strengthening leadership skills to forming lasting friendships, their insights reveal the meaningful impact of being part of ISS Houses.
We’re here to help
Frequently Asked Questions
You may find answers to many common queries here — before contacting us directly. We hope these help guide your decision to join ISS Madeira.
Have more questions?
Students take part in ISS House Activity Days, engaging in service projects and team-building exercises. Additional challenges include chess tournaments, STEM projects, art contests, media activities, sporting events, and quizzes, all contributing to House points.
The annual Sports Day is a major highlight, celebrating athletic talent and encouraging participation at every level. As the House system expands, we plan to add House Music, Drama, and Debate events to further enrich student experiences.
Students are placed in mixed-gender houses that include members from different year groups. Siblings are usually assigned to the same ISS Houses to encourage connection and a sense of family within the community.
House points are collected throughout the year and count towards the coveted House Cup, awarded at the end of the academic year. Points are earned not only through competitions but also by demonstrating positive behaviour and reflecting the school’s core values.
Students gain points by participating in activities, showing leadership, supporting peers, and displaying exemplary conduct in and out of the classroom. The House Cup celebrates teamwork, dedication, and the collective contributions of all house members, reinforcing a sense of community and friendly competition.