School community
Fostering a sense of belonging for all From much-loved annual events to student-led initiatives like the student council, staff, students, and families are all united in celebrating our international learning community.
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House groups
At United Lisbon International School, the House system plays an important role in building community, pride and school spirit. Students are placed into one of four Houses — Lynx, Elephant, Tigers and Gators when they join a school.
During the year, students wear their House colours while taking part in special activities, competitions and spirit days, fostering teamwork and friendly competition that connects young people across the different year groups. This system encourages belonging, cooperation and a sense of identity.
Student Council
Our Student Council plays an important and positive role in school life. Elected by their peers at the start of each school year, council members represent the voice of the student body and help shape events, initiatives and community projects.
This leadership opportunity encourages active engagement, responsibility, teamwork and the development of communication skills. Our students truly enjoy having a meaningful say in school culture and activities. The Student Council strengthens connections across year groups and ensures every student has a voice.
School-wide celebrations
School-wide celebrations bring students together to share cultures and traditions. Events like Halloween fill the school with fun as students dress in costumes and take part in themed activities. Our much-loved International Day encourages everyone to explore and appreciate different countries through food, music and dance. Similarly, Lunar New Year celebrations introduce students to important cultural customs, such as traditional dances, decorations, and the meaning of the new year. Together, these events help connect across cultures to build a vibrant school community where everyone feels included and inspired.
Student-led initiatives
Alongside the formal Student Council, all students at ULIS are encouraged to suggest events or ways that the school can better support its learning community. Under the influence of our students, the Lunar New Year celebrations have become a highlight of the school year, while smaller-scale events might include a ‘tasting day’ to sample cuisine from the many different cultures represented at the school, or our now annual food drive in support of the local community that was first initiated by a Grade 10 student.
Model United Nations
The ULIS Model United Nations Club is a space for students who want to think critically about the world and actively engage with global affairs. Every Tuesday, members come together to debate pressing international issues, explore possible solutions and examine how these challenges are addressed through United Nations policies and resolutions.
Discussions focus on real-world topics, from climate change and global security to human rights and sustainable development. Students learn how to analyse complex problems, represent different national perspectives and craft well-structured arguments grounded in UN frameworks.
This year, we have several exciting opportunities ahead. In April, members will attend the Dublin conference, where they will collaborate and compete with students from other schools in a dynamic international setting. We are also preparing for the conference at Saint Peter’s International School here in Lisbon, which will provide another valuable platform to sharpen negotiation, diplomacy, and public speaking skills.
ULIS MUN is not just about public speaking. It is about understanding global systems, thinking diplomatically and developing the confidence to engage with the world in an informed and responsible way. Whether you are new to MUN or already experienced, the club offers a challenging and rewarding environment to grow as a global citizen.