At Greengates School’s National Programme, we champion academic activities that bridge culture and learning. A prime example is the Poetry and Rhetoric Contest, held annually between February and March, where students engage in a profound personal and intellectual journey through poetry.
This multifaceted academic experience begins with students selecting a poem that resonates with them. Through a process of critical analysis, they explore its aesthetic and literary value, guided by National Programme Spanish teachers, who play a key role in developing their analytical, memorisation, and public speaking skills. The contest not only strengthens students’ ability to recite fluently but also builds their confidence in performing before a large audience.
The 2025 Poetry and Rhetoric Contest culminated in an outstanding final round, featuring talented finalists from Years 7 to 10. We were honoured to be joined by our General Director, Mr. Eamonn Mullaly, Director of the National Programme, Mr. Alejandro Silva, and National Programme Coordinator, Ms. Verónica Salazar, along with supportive parents and an engaged student audience. The event was beautifully accompanied by our talented Spanish teacher Luis Francisco López, who provided musical interludes, and was hosted by Mario Covarrubias.
Throughout the competition, our students demonstrated exceptional communication skills and strong stage presence, proving that poetry serves as a powerful medium for expressing a wide spectrum of emotions and ideas. This successful event reaffirmed the importance of poetry in fostering creativity, confidence, and meaningful self-expression within our school community.
Mario Covarrubias
Literature and Spanish Teacher
At Greengates, we are committed to creating an environment where every child feels valued and respected. Our school is more than just a place of learning; it is a vibrant community of families, united by the belief that our diversity is a source of strength and something to be celebrated.
As Educators, we are continuously striving to improve practice and one of the most effective ways that we can do this is through collaboration with others in our profession. This October, we had seven teachers visit Greengates from the British School, Rio to observe the teaching and learning in the primary school. The visit came as a result of a recommendation from our accreditation body, the International Curriculum Association (ICA), who have recognised Greengates Primary as a school of best practice.
