Júlia Ladeira Santos holds a bachelor’s degree in Portuguese and French from the University of the Azores, where she began her remarkable teaching career spanning over 35 years. Initiating her career in the Azores in 1989, Júlia then moved to Madeira Island in 1990, where she taught at the Horácio Bento de Gouveia School until 2006.

Júlia’s journey with ISS began in 2006 when, together with her family, Júlia acquired the “Madeira British School”. At the time, the school had 40 students, 4 of which were Júlia’s children. Following the school’s rebranding in 2013, Júlia took on the Principal role, leading its growth and development for over a decade. Her leadership and vision shaped the school into a thriving educational community. In 2024, with the school’s expansion and her growing involvement in the Sharing Foundation, Júlia transitioned into the role of Pedagogical Director to focus on shaping educational strategies.