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 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.
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 House 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 Houses. As the House system continues to develop and grow, we plan to introduce activities such as House Music, House Drama, and House Debates.
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 House members.