Meet the Team
Bright School Management
Board of Directors
Our Board is composed of four brothers who had a dream to establish a new school concept, where students can build on their identities to become the best versions of themselves.
Miguel Ladeira Santos
CEO
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Miguel Ladeira Santos
A young entrepreneur and the visionary leader of the Sharing Education Group, Miguel is the CEO of the group. With a background in Luxury Hospitality Management and Corporate Finance from Les Roches and the London School of Business and Finance, he brings a high-end customer service approach to all his ventures. His experience spans diverse markets, including Qatar, the United States and Spain.
Since the inception of the Sharing Education Group, Miguel has been the driving force behind its growth, continuously pushing the organisation to adopt cutting-edge solutions. His success is fuelled by a passion for delivering results and creating value in every project he undertakes.
Whether leading teams or spearheading new business ventures, his ability to combine vision with practical execution has earned him recognition as a versatile and forward-thinking entrepreneur.
Francisco Ladeira Santos
CFO
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Francisco Ladeira Santos
Francisco spent his childhood and teenage years split between Madeira and Lisbon – a hint of what his professional life would look like in a few years. After finishing high school in Madeira, Francisco moved to Lisbon more permanently to study Management at ISEG Lisbon School of Economics and Management, whilst at the same time starting his career leading the Finance, Legal and Administrative Departments of the Group, headquartered on Madeira Island.
His role has since evolved into his current position as Vice-President and CFO, actively developing and implementing Sharing Education Group’s strategic vision and growth whilst maintaining the coordination of each school’s Finance, Legal and Administrative Departments.
Travelling between Lisbon, Madeira and the Algarve, Francisco knows each school very well and is one of the Group’s biggest enthusiasts in the relentless pursuit of perfection.
Filipe Ladeira Santos
Madeira Campus
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Filipe Ladeira Santos
With a background in education in Marketing and Financial Investments, from IADE and the London School of Business and Finance, Filipe leads the Purchasing and Procurement departments of the Sharing Education Group, ensuring that each team is equipped with the essential tools and resources needed to operate efficiently and effectively.
He has played a crucial role in the Group’s expansion, contributing to the opening of schools in Lisbon, Africa and the Algarve, while managing the school in Madeira.
With the growth and development of the Group, Filipe’s role has evolved to encompass the overall management of purchasing and procurement, ensuring solid and sustainable development for the organisation.
Gonçalo Ladeira Santos
Head of Marketing & Admissions
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Gonçalo Ladeira Santos
With an extensive international background, Gonçalo currently leads the Sales & Marketing team of the Sharing Education Group.
Having completed his studies at Glion and the London School of Business in both Switzerland and London, Gonçalo gained valuable experience working in dynamic cities such as Lisbon, Dubai, Barcelona, and London, with a strong focus on hospitality and customer-centric roles.
Taking on a pivotal role in the family business, Gonçalo leads and shapes the strategic sales and marketing direction of the Group. With his vision and expertise, he ensures a cohesive approach across all campuses, driving growth and strengthening the Group’s presence in the educational sector.
A familiar face at the school, Gonçalo is highly involved in its operations, ensuring the highest standards of quality are consistently met across all campuses.
Education Management
Principal of Bright International School
The role of a Principal in leading a team of educators is vital to us. Through strong leadership, they shape the school’s culture and drive the achievement of educational goals.

Tom Caston
“School should be a bright place full of laughter, warmth and fun. Brilliant learning will then follow.”
Tom studied Geography at the University of Exeter and later obtained an MSc in Managing School Improvement from the University of Reading. Before embarking on his teaching career, he worked in investment banking.
In 1999, he began teaching at Shiplake College, where he later became Head of Lower School. He then held senior management positions in several independent schools across the United Kingdom, including Head of Staff Development at Ardingly College and, more recently, Deputy Head at Framlingham College.
Following these roles, Tom served as Head of Mander Portman Woodward, Cambridge, for four years before joining Bright International School in August 2024.
Coordinators
Leadership Team
The Leadership team is a group of international educational specialists with many years of experience in the Cambridge Curriculum, providing the most innovative educational approaches for our students.
Sandra Rodrigues
Pedagogical Director | Cambridge Global Perspectives Teacher
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Sandra Rodrigues
With over 30 years of experience in education, Sandra brings a lifelong passion for teaching and learning, supported by a Master’s degree in History and a deep commitment to academic excellence. Her career has been guided by a belief in the transformative power of education to shape a brighter future, as well as a dedication to fostering critical thinking, personal growth, and holistic development in every student.
At Bright International School, Sandra is proud to be part of a dynamic and inclusive learning community where curiosity is celebrated, collaboration is encouraged, and every student is empowered to reach their full potential. She believes that education is not just about academic success but also about nurturing emotional intelligence—qualities like empathy, resilience, and self-awareness—that equip students to thrive in life beyond the classroom.
Sandra is passionate about horses, especially Lusitanos. These remarkable creatures have been profound teachers, imparting valuable lessons in patience, clear communication, and the art of building genuine connections.
Patrícia Cardoso
Coordinator of Early Years | EY 1 Teacher
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Patrícia Cardoso
Patrícia began her education at Colégio de S. José – Ramalhão in Sintra before moving to the Algarve, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the Escola Superior de Educação – Universidade do Algarve. For nearly 20 years, she has dedicated herself to creating inspiring and engaging learning experiences for young children, fostering imaginative environments that spark excitement and a love for learning and exploration.
For Patrícia, education is more than just teaching—it’s about building meaningful connections. She believes every child deserves to feel happy, understood, and valued, and her goal is to empower children to express themselves confidently, ensuring they feel heard and respected.
Outside of the classroom, Patrícia values balance and creativity in her life. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, cooking traditional Portuguese meals, and gardening. You might also find her on the Padel court, enjoying cosy movie afternoons with her family, or working on fun crafting projects.
Sophie Gomes
Coordinator of Primary | Year 5 Teacher
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Sophie Gomes
Sophie holds a Master’s degree in Preschool and Primary Education and brings eight years of teaching experience in international schools across the Algarve. Throughout her career, she has taught early years and primary learners, while also taking on leadership roles, including that of deputy head teacher. As a dedicated primary teacher, Sophie is passionate about nurturing young minds and helping each learner reach their full potential.
With a bilingual background, Sophie has developed a deep understanding of how children acquire and develop language skills, inspiring her to explore the dynamics of bilingual education through both research and practical application. Committed to fostering the well-being of both students and staff, she continually develops her leadership skills to support a holistic and inclusive school community.
Sophie Gomes is a nature lover who finds peace in the moon, stars, sun, and the calming effect of the sea and sand. When life gets challenging, she always says, “When things get heavy, lift some weights – it’s a great way to feel stronger, inside and out!”
Nicholas Hildebrandt
Coordinator of Secondary | Math & Science Teacher
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Nicholas Hildebrandt
Nicholas holds a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy from the University of the Western Cape and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Education from the University of Kwazulu-Natal.
With over 7 years of teaching experience in schools across South Africa, Cambodia, and Portugal, he is a dedicated Mathematics and Science teacher.
Outside the classroom, Nicholas enjoys spending quality time with his wife and two children. He is also passionate about engaging in outdoor and sporting activities, always seeking new ways to stay active and connect with nature.
Nicholas enjoys playing soccer and playing the guitar. He once had a turtle as a pet, adding a unique touch to his collection of memories.
For All Ages
Teaching Team
Our team comprises dedicated educators who nurture young learners with personalised guidance, fostering curiosity, confidence, and foundational skills in a supportive environment that inspires joyful and meaningful learning experiences.
Alexandra Dinis
Teaching Assistant
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Alexandra Dinis
Alexandra has gained valuable experience across a variety of fields, which has helped her develop a diverse skill set. She began her career in an accounting firm before expanding into music lessons, providing study support, and working as a carer in foster homes. Her journey eventually led her to Bright International School, where she has made a positive impact.
Dedicated to creating a joyful and supportive working environment, Alexandra worked for a year as a teaching assistant in Early Years and has been supporting the Primary School team since the start of the current school year.
Currently in her third year of studying Psychology, Alexandra is focused on developing both personally and professionally.
Alexandra loves dancing, singing and practices meditation and yoga to calm her mind. Her biggest addiction, however, is reading, which she finds both enriching and soothing.
Ana Guerreiro
Teaching Assistant
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Ana Guerreiro
Ana holds a vocational qualification in Sociocultural Animation, where she gained practical experience through internships with a diverse range of target audiences.
She spent four years working in a nursery, developing a strong understanding of early childhood development. Currently, she is enjoying her role in preschool education, where she continues to build on her experience and passion for working with young children.
Ana is a responsible, organised, and dedicated professional who strives to provide the best possible care and learning experiences for the children she works with. Her commitment to her role and her ability to connect with children make her an invaluable member of the team.
In her free time, Ana enjoys participating in athletics, going for walks, and spending quality time with her family. She values these moments as they help her recharge and maintain a healthy life balance.
Cecília Diaz
French & Spanish Teacher | Admissions Officer
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Cecília Diaz
Cecilia is a passionate and highly qualified educator from Spain with a diverse background. She holds a degree in English Philology and three master’s degrees: one in Applied Linguistics and TESOL from Cambridge University, another in Teaching Secondary, and the last in Teaching Spanish as a Second Language. She also has the British QTS and has completed various specialised courses, including those on bilingualism in the classroom and coeducation.
Cecilia’s international experience spans various locations such as Cambridge, Bordeaux, and Lisbon, where she transitioned into the Client Success and commercial world. Fluent in four languages (English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish), she has a strong academic foundation and a creative, adaptable approach to teaching and professional growth.
Cecília loves laughing and always tries to see the positive side of things. She enjoys dancing, hiking, and watching sunsets. Known for being “crazy in a good way,” she’s also very demanding of herself, her life, and her job. Every day, she strives to improve and be the best version of herself.
Chené de Freitas
English & History Teacher
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Chené de Freitas
Chené holds a Bachelor’s Degree with dual majors in English Studies and Communication Science from the University of South Africa, a Postgraduate Degree in Applied Linguistics, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) from the University of Pretoria (South Africa). She is also a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society.
Since 2015, Chené has been a dedicated teacher, working in various private and public schools in her home city of Pretoria. She began teaching in Portugal in August 2023 and now proudly contributes to Bright International School since September 2024.
Outside of the classroom, Chené freelances as a content writer and editor, specialising in editing dissertations and theses for university students.
Chené is deeply passionate about literature and the arts, with a keen interest in photography and football. As a devoted Manchester United supporter, she proudly cheers for her team – GGMU!!
Daniela Santos
Portuguese Teacher
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Daniela Santos
Daniela holds a degree in Languages, Literatures, and Cultures, specialising in Portuguese and German Studies from the Faculdade de Letras da Universidade de Lisboa. She has taught in public schools and language schools throughout her career.
With a deep interest in learning languages, particularly linguistic and textual structures, Daniela is dedicated to fostering a love not only for literature but also for the pragmatic use of Portuguese in her students. She encourages them to explore and appreciate the richness of language.
Outside of work, Daniela enjoys painting and drawing, as well as reading, travelling, and discovering new places and cultures. She recharges her energy through dance, music, and team sports.
Emma Torcato
Year 6 Teacher
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Emma Torcato
With over 20 years of teaching experience, Emma is an experienced educator who excels at inspiring curiosity and confidence in students of all ages. From Reception to GCSEs, she has guided learners through every stage of their academic journey.
In addition to her classroom teaching, Emma has held senior leadership roles, contributing to whole-school success. As a qualified SENCo, she is committed to creating inclusive environments where every student feels supported and valued.
Emma sets high expectations for herself and others, believing that challenge and support are key to achieving excellence. Whether she’s planning a lesson, working with colleagues, or celebrating a student’s success, her enthusiasm is clear.
Emma, often voted most likely to break into a random jig during lessons, is never seen without her signature black eyeliner. She even uses her boots as a pencil case, keeping things as quirky as her personality.
Filipe Pereira
Computing & Digital Literacy | IT Manager
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Filipe Pereira
Filipe Pereira holds a degree in Orthopaedic Engineering from the University of Algarve and has an extensive background in IT.
After beginning his career as an engineer in Norway, he gained valuable experience working in diverse and dynamic environments. This international exposure allowed him to develop both technical expertise and a global perspective.
Upon returning to Portugal, Filipe discovered his passion for education and began teaching computing. He finds great joy in sharing his knowledge with students and inspiring them to explore the ever-evolving world of technology.
Filipe enjoys playing computer and console games and spends his free time watching anime. He’s also skilled at playing several different instruments.
Isabel Morris-Gratham
Year 1 Teacher
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Isabel Morris-Gratham
Isabel has over 25 years of teaching experience, which began with a degree in Drama, Theatre, and Television Studies, working as a researcher and documentary maker before transitioning to education. Her journey also included roles as a recruitment executive for prestigious organisations such as Reuters and The European Space Agency.
She then completed a post-graduate qualification in teaching, specialising in English language. She realised that teaching was the perfect way to blend her communication skills with a desire to make a lasting impact. Isabel completed a post-graduate qualification in teaching and led the ‘Mais Educação’ project in Albufeira, designing courses and bridging English and Portuguese curricula. Later, Isabel was invited to join what is now Bright International School, where she helped develop their bilingual Year 1 programme.
Isabel used to play hockey at school and university, representing Kent and competing in the London Championships. She has a passion for classic cars and enjoyed restoring them. In addition, Isabel has held various art and sculpture exhibitions in London.
Jacqueline de Oliveira
French Teacher
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Jacqueline de Oliveira
Jacqueline holds a Master’s degree in Safety, Hygiene, and Health at Work, a degree in Sociology of Organisations from Universidade do Minho, and a course in Pedagogy and Teaching Languages (French and Portuguese for Foreigners) from Berlitz School in Germany. She has also completed preparatory courses for the DELF and DALF (official French exams).
With over 26 years of teaching experience in Germany and Portugal, Jacqueline has not only taught but has also developed roles as a training coordinator and pedagogical advisor in various enterprises.
Jacqueline has completed an interior decorator course and practices and teaches labour gymnastics. She loves travelling abroad, particularly to large cities, where she enjoys exploring new cultures and experiences.
Jennifer Kieran
Year 2 Teacher
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Jennifer Kieran
Jennifer initially qualified as an Environmental Engineer at Nottingham University before spending a year childminding in the USA. She then obtained her teaching qualification and taught in the UK for four years. After that, she spent a year backpacking and working across Australia, followed by a year in Ireland.
In 2002, Jennifer moved to Lisbon, where she taught for two years at an IB international school before relocating to the Algarve in 2004. She also spent five years teaching at an international school in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, before returning to Portugal in 2020.
Now in her 27th year of teaching, Jennifer enjoys being in the Primary classroom, sharing the children’s enthusiasm and love of learning, and hoping to inspire their curiosity to explore the world around them.
Travelling is Jennifer’s favourite pastime, and she was fortunate to travel extensively throughout Southeast Asia during her time in Vietnam. Having now visited five continents, she hopes to explore South America one day.
Jéssica Quinta
Teaching Assistant
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Jéssica Quinta
Jéssica holds a three-year vocational qualification as a Psychosocial Support Technician, with annual internships focusing on children and elderly individuals. She has been working with children for approximately six years, including three years in a Portuguese nursery.
Jéssica is a responsible, organised, and dedicated professional, fully committed to the children she works with. She finds immense joy in her work, enjoying each day spent with the children. Although the goodbyes can be emotional, she takes great pride in witnessing their growth and development.
Jéssica has always dreamed of becoming a florist and owning her own shop since she was little. Although that dream was never realised, fate led her to marry a landscape architect. She is passionate about medieval fairs and enjoys nature walks, particularly in the mountains.
Luísa Clark
EY 2 Teacher
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Luísa Clark
Luísa Santana Clark is a passionate educator with over 16 years of teaching and leadership experience in early childhood education. Originally from the city of Cape Town, Luísa now calls Portugal home, where she lives with her family and teaches at Bright.
She holds a BA in Health Science and Social Services with a specialisation in Psychology, as well as a Post-Graduate Certificate in Education in Foundation Phase and Early Childhood Development. These qualifications, combined with her extensive experience, allow her to create inclusive learning environments.
Throughout her career, Luísa has embraced leadership roles, including serving as Head of Grade R and coordinating extracurricular activities. Her teaching is enriched by community involvement, such as organising events like Fun Sports Days, paired reading programmes, and outreach initiatives.
Luísa’s family is her heart and soul, and spending quality time outdoors with them is incredibly important. She also has a bit of a mug-collecting obsession! Additionally she is especially devoted to supporting the South African rugby team.
Laurel Hildebrandt
Year 3 Teacher
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Laurel Hildebrandt
Laurel holds a bachelor’s degree in Foundation Phase Teaching and has over 11 years of teaching experience in international schools across South Africa and Asia, spanning various grade levels.
Her passion for teaching ignited at the age of five, when all she would pretend to play was “Teacher Teacher.” When it came time to choose her career, the decision was clear—she would follow her passion for teaching.
Laurel believes in the importance of making education creative, incorporating hands-on activities that engage and inspire learners. She is dedicated to creating a learning environment where students feel safe, valued, and heard, as she believes this is when they learn best.
Laurel cherishes spending quality time with her family. Although she doesn’t drink tea or coffee, she always starts her morning with a cup of green tea in hand. She loves nature and the beach, and she feels like a fish in water.
Margarida Seromenho
Music Teacher
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Margarida Seromenho
Margarida is a highly experienced music educator from Portugal, holding a degree in Musical Sciences and a specialised recorder course from the National Conservatory School of Music in Lisbon. She has further enriched her teaching skills through advanced training in various European countries, specialising in Orff Pedagogy.
With over 25 years of experience, Margarida has taught in international schools across Portugal, Africa, and the Middle East, working with students of all ages, including infants as young as six months. Her diverse teaching experience reflects her dedication to fostering musical growth in learners from various cultural backgrounds.
In addition to her teaching career, Margarida has a deep passion for choral and orchestral music. She spends her free time reading, enjoying moments with her husband and three children, and visiting the beach. Margarida is also a member of a choir based in Portimão, where she performs as an alto singer.
Pedro Águas
Art Teacher
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Pedro Águas
Pedro holds a degree in Visual Arts from the University of Algarve (UALG) and has been teaching for 8 years in international schools. He also offers private art lessons in oil painting and figurative sculpture.
Outside of teaching, Pedro works in his own studio, where he creates his art and has participated in several solo and collective exhibitions, both nationally and internationally.
Pedro is a nature enthusiast with a curious mind. He’s a passionate surf lover and has a deep appreciation for scientific literature, combining his love for the outdoors with his intellectual interests.
Rachel Hackney
Year 4 Teacher
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Rachel Hackney
Rachel holds a Master’s degree in English Studies, focusing on primary education and literature, from Ludwig-Maximilian University, along with a Bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in History and a certification in Education. She has been teaching in various classrooms around the world for the past six years.
Her passion lies in empowering students through language and literature, creating meaningful learning experiences that inspire curiosity and a love for reading.
Outside of the classroom, Rachel developed a primary education programme at Eleonas Refugee Camp in Athens, Greece, for students aged 5-12 and continues to support similar causes from afar. In her free time, she loves going to the beach and spend time with friends.
Rachel has travelled to 34 different countries and loves to SCUBA dive whenever the opportunity arises. Originally from Saint Augustine, FL, the oldest city in the USA, she has a deep connection to her roots while constantly exploring the world.
Rita Farrajota
Teaching Assistant
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Rita Farrajota
Rita holds a technical qualification in Communication Design and Multimedia from ETIC – Escola de Tecnologia, Inovação e Criação in Lisbon. She has gained experience in retail and telecommunications, alongside various training and work in the field of representation as an actress and educator for children and youth.
Rita is deeply fascinated by childhood, the individuality, rhythm, and pure curiosity of each child, who is still in the early stages of development. She considers it a privilege to be part of this process and to learn from the children every day.
Rita is the proud mother of two wonderful and lively boys who have given her a strong sense of purpose, inspiring her to be a better person every day. She loves travelling the world, discovering new cultures, people, landscapes, smells, and colours. Rita genuinely believes that while we cannot change the world alone, we can certainly make a difference.
Taya Roberts
ESL Teacher
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Taya Roberts
Taya Roberts holds a Master’s degree in Business Management from the University of the Algarve, a Bachelor’s degree in Professional Writing and Publishing from Curtin University in Australia, and a National Diploma in Early Childhood Education. Additionally, she has earned a certification in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL).
With a career spanning several years, Taya has gained valuable experience in both Early Years and Primary School settings across South Africa and Portugal.
Her time in these diverse educational environments has provided her with a broad understanding of various teaching methodologies and a strong commitment to fostering student development through creative and personalised learning approaches.
Taya is a yoga teacher with a deep love for nature. She has a strong desire to help every stray animal she encounters, showing compassion for those in need.
Tiago Nunes
PE Teacher
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Tiago Nunes
Tiago Nunes has a degree in Physical Education and Sports and later completed a Master’s Degree in Physical Education and Sports for Primary and Secondary Education at Lusófona University in Lisbon.
His passion lies in promoting physical activity and encouraging students to lead healthy, active lifestyles. In his free time, Tiago enjoys surfing and playing Padel, embracing the outdoors and maintaining an active lifestyle.
Since he can remember, Tiago has always had a strong desire to become a PE teacher. Surfing has been his passion from a young age, and he won several surfing competitions during his childhood, which fuelled his love for the sport even more.
Here to Help
Support Staff
We have a dedicated, creative and hard-working support staff team, who are here to help the academic staff and administration team provide the best educational experience to all members of our community.
Helena Silveira
Educational Psychologist
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Helena Silveira
Helena Silveira is a dedicated Educational Psychologist with extensive experience in supporting student development and well-being. She specialises in identifying and addressing learning challenges, collaborating with educators and families to create strategies that foster academic success and emotional growth. Helena also focuses on career counselling, guiding students towards fulfilling career paths.
Helena holds a BSc in Psychology with Honours from Roehampton University and a Master’s in Educational Psychology from UALG University.
Known for her ability to build strong relationships with students, teachers, and families, Helena has a proven track record of improving educational outcomes and fostering a supportive school culture.
Helena enjoys stand-up paddleboarding and plans to take surf lessons soon. She has two daughters, and her family owns an artisanal brewery called Senescal.
Maria Rosa
Security & Logistics
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Maria Rosa
Maria began her professional journey in Vale do Lobo, where she worked as a Chief Operator in the security sector. After five years in this field, she found her true passion in education, a career she has pursued for the past 22 years.
Since 2019, Maria has been with Bright, where she coordinates non-teaching teams and provides support to teaching staff. She is a versatile and adaptable individual with multiple certifications in early childhood education, including a TAT course (INEM) in emergency techniques.
Maria is a nature lover who enjoys hiking and camping. She has a deep affection for the sea and loves walking along the coastline with her dog, Índia. Travelling and discovering new cultures and flavours are also among her greatest passions.
Marisa Machinho
Security & Logistics
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Marisa Machinho
Marisa holds a professional qualification equivalent to the 12th grade in Social and Cultural Animation.
After completing her studies, she worked as an entertainer in the hospitality industry for several years, mainly with Kids Clubs, which sparked her passion for working with children.
A lover of good laughter and celebration, Marisa has also spent 15 years playing futsal at a regional and national level, winning the regional championship for 5 years. She is a sports enthusiast and a supporter of FCP.
Marisa enjoys outdoor sports and embraces the energy of being active in nature.
Melinda Samartineean
Support Staff
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Melinda Samartineean
Melinda is originally from Romania and has been living in Portugal for the past 16 years.
Over the years, she has worked in various sectors, including gardening, restaurants, and sales.
She joined the school in 2020 and has found working with children to be a unique and rewarding experience. She enjoys the personal growth and satisfaction that comes with supporting young learners.
Melinda loves going for walks and listening to music, finding both activities to be a great way to unwind.
She also enjoys baking traditional cakes from her hometown, keeping the flavours and recipes of her roots alive in her kitchen.
Natáliia Mykhash
Support Staff
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Natáliia Mykhash
Natáliia studied and graduated in Architecture at a university in Ukraine before moving to Portugal in 2018 for love. She has been working at the school since 2021.
Fluent in five languages, Natáliia is constantly enhancing her skills. She enjoys working in environments with children, as they create a special atmosphere and inspire those around them.
With experience in supporting and organisinging comfortable spaces, she is responsible, attentive to detail, and always focused on achieving high-quality results.
In her free time, Natáliia enjoys the arts, especially drawing, and creating things with her own hands. She loves going for walks and discovering new places. She believes that creativity and a harmonious environment help to find inspiration and balance in life.
Rui Cruz
School Office | Extra-Curricular Activities Coordinator
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Rui Cruz
Rui Cruz holds a Bachelor’s degree in Food Engineering and a Master’s degree in Viticulture and Winemaking. With a distinguished career as Head Winemaker at some of Portugal’s top wineries, Rui honed his expertise in crafting exceptional wines and leading teams in dynamic environments.
Recently, Rui chose to embark on a new life path, bringing his leadership and organisational skills to education. He now serves as the Head of the Financial Department at Bright International School and plays a key role in the school’s daily management, contributing to its ongoing growth and success.
Rui used to be a winemaker and now runs his own company in the beverage sector, and the Algarve’s beautiful beaches have kept him rooted in the region for many years.
Solomiya Tymchuk
School Office
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Solomiya Tymchuk
Solomiya was born in Ukraine and moved to Portugal at the age of nine. She pursued a degree in Gestão de Empresas at the University of Algarve. After graduating, Solomiya worked as an accounting technician in an accounting office for three years. Seeking a more dynamic and hands-on role, she aimed to work directly within a company and joined the school as an administrative officer.
In her initial position, Solomiya managed all aspects of the school office operations. As the school expanded and the team grew, her role has now evolved to focus on Human Resources and managing student profiles.
Solomiya is a proud mother of two beautiful girls and is happily married. She shares her home with a dog and two cats, and values creating a calm and serene atmosphere in her life. Solomiya loves to spend quality time with her family, cherishing every moment together and making the most of their time at home.
Taras Pelekh
Support Staff
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Taras Pelekh
Taras has a secondary education background and has been a valued member of the school community for over two years. Taras is dedicated to his role and continues to develop his skills to ensure he provides the best support possible.
He is always open to new learning experiences and is committed to growing professionally. His time at the school has been marked by continuous improvement, and he looks forward to contributing even more to the school’s success in the future.
Taras is passionate about computer games and anything related to cars. Recently, he’s also developed an interest in cryptocurrency, diving into this new area with curiosity and enthusiasm.
Valter Veríssimo
Support Staff
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Valter Veríssimo
Valter has a solid background in Arts and Graphic Communication Technologies, having studied at the António Arroio Artistic School, where he developed his foundational skills in the arts.
He further enhanced his expertise with training in Graphic Design at INEPI and attended the Cultural Heritage course at the University of Algarve (ULAg).
With hands-on experience in metalworking and carpentry, Valter has applied his skills in decorative arts, creating intricate designs and structures. His expertise extends to working with composite materials, which he has utilised in the production of nautical sports products.
Valter loves the arts, astrophotography, and cycling, combining his passion for creativity with his love for the outdoors and the wonders of the universe.