Enrichment Activities

At Redbridge International School, we offer a dynamic enrichment programme designed to nurture students’ passions, enhance their skills, and promote overall well-being. 

From Early Years to Secondary School, our programme is carefully curated to provide diverse opportunities for personal growth and development outside the classroom. Whether it’s exploring creativity through the arts, building teamwork in sports, or discovering new hobbies, our students are encouraged to engage in activities that inspire and challenge them.

We have partnered with top-tier professionals in their fields to deliver exceptional experiences for our students. Surf lessons are led by world-renowned surfer Tiago Pires, while tennis coaching is provided by Fred Gil, one of Portugal’s leading tennis players. In collaboration with STAT, Pedro Serrenho, and many other distinguished experts, we offer exciting opportunities in areas such as music, drama, and robotics. These partnerships ensure that our students receive expert guidance as they pursue their passions. At Redbridge, we believe that a well-rounded education extends beyond the classroom, with our extracurricular programme playing a key role in fostering confident, curious, and capable young individuals.

Some of our the activities in our enrichment programme include:

Crafty Hands

(Available for EY)

Crafty Hands engages students in hands-on activities that enhance their fine motor skills and
creativity, all while ensuring they have fun. Children explore and experiment with a variety of
techniques, including blowing paint to create unique patterns, folding paper into intricate shapes,
underlining and highlighting details in their artwork, overlapping materials to add depth, pinching clay
to sculpt figures, and tearing paper for collage projects.

Gardening

(Available for EY)

In this activity, the instructors from Plantae, the amazing plant shop of Campo de Ourique, will accompany students in learning about nature, exploring the different natural elements, and creating an interest related to nature and gardening. Our budding gardeners will explore various gardening techniques and practice different activities that can be carried out at home.

Students have a hands-on gardening learning experience, fostering environmental awareness, responsibility, and patience while encouraging physical activity and time spent outdoors. 

Art & Me

(Available for EY)

Art & Me focuses on exploring the great painters and their influence on art today, where children are introduced to the works of renowned artists from various periods, such as Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Frida Kahlo. Through interactive discussions and visual presentations, they learn about the unique styles, techniques, and ideas that these artists brought to the world of art. Following this, children are encouraged to create their own art pieces inspired by the masterpieces they have studied, either by imitating the style of a particular artist or by infusing their interpretations and personal flair into their artwork.

Art & Emotions

(Available for EY)

Art & Emotions is an Art Therapy Club, providing an enriching experience by incorporating various creative activities such as crafts, music and movement, chosen to facilitate emotional release and enhance overall well-being.

Participants engage in crafting projects to express their emotions through visual art, experience the therapeutic effects of music to soothe and uplift their spirits, and participate in movement exercises designed to release physical tension and promote relaxation. This diverse approach not only stimulates creativity but also helps students develop a deeper focus and connection to their inner selves.

Story Telling

(Available for EY)

Story telling brings language alive and creates a participatory and immersive experience that allows children to enjoy hearing the language in a dynamic, stylistic and entertaining way. 

This multisensorial class stimulates children’s imagination and elements such as humour, suspense, surprise and their emotions whilst listening to the stories. Children will recreate the stories through art activities, using a variety of art materials, mainly related to nature 

Ballet

(Available for EY)

The Ballet classes at Redbridge are an introduction to Ballet techniques in a fun and creative setting. Students learn the fundamentals of Ballet via the repertoire stories and music (Swan lake, The Nutcracker…) guided by a trilingual dance teacher. 

The practice of Ballet allows boys and girls to develop physical coordination, posture and flexibility as well as improving focus and confidence. An end-of-year performance is organised to give an opportunity for the students to learn stage skills.

Music & Rhythm

(Available for EY)

Our Music & Rhythm Club is specially designed for Early Years students. This club offers a unique opportunity for children to embark on an exciting musical journey that aims to ignite curiosity and enthusiasm for musical activities.

Using Orff instruments, children have hands-on experiences, exploring different sounds and rhythms. These instruments are perfect for young children, allowing them to create music in an enjoyable and accessible way.

Ceramics

(Available for EY & PY)

Ceramic classes give children the freedom to express their creativity and the ability to change something with their own hands. 

Pottery children often laugh and express joy at the feelings, smells, and sounds that clay can make. Manipulating the clay can be also a simple first lesson for children, to help them understand that their actions influence the outside world and the art which they create.

Mini Gym

(Available for EY)

Did you know that gymnastics helps kids to develop physical skills like body control, coordination and strength? Gymnastics for kids allows children to experience self-confidence through creativity, performance, and helps to lay a strong foundation for other sports that a child might express interest in the future. 

In this class you can expect your child to have lots of fun, whilst developing various gymnastics skills (Olympics here we come!).

Cooking Club

(Available for EY e PY)

At Redbridge International School, Food Education is a key part of the children’s learning journey. We are convinced that the meals we serve not only have an impact on the environment, but also on our student’s well being. Hands-on cooking activities help children develop confidence and skill, as well as encouraging them to be self-directed and independent. 

Our School Chefs, whose commitment to sustainable providence and locally sourced organic ingredients will be leading this workshop, teaching students not only how to cook healthy and wholesome meals, but also to select the best seasonal ingredients.

Taekwondo

(Available for EY & PY)

The name Taekwondo is derived from the Korean word “Tae” meaning foot, “Kwon” meaning fist and “Do” meaning way of. So, literally Taekwondo means “the way of the foot and fist”. 

While maintaining the characteristic physical and technical components of Martial Arts, taekwondo offers the ideal conditions for teaching Life Skills such as Discipline, Honesty, Belief, Respect, Communication and Self-Esteem. These are the skills that will allow your children to become true leaders, in both their personal and professional lives.

Futsal

(Available for EY)

This exciting new addition to our After School programme with Futsal by Escolinha do Figo, the football school founded by the famous Portuguese footballer, Luís Figo is a great opportunity for your child to excel in the world of futsal right here in our gym!

Futsal is a sport that emphasises ball control, quick decision-making, and teamwork. Played on a smaller, indoor court, it is designed to develop a player’s agility and precision. These skills not only enhance their abilities on the futsal court but also translate seamlessly to traditional football.

Our programme is led by highly qualified coaches from Escolinha do Figo, helping children to develop superior ball-handling skills, quick reflexes, and strategic thinking.

Our focus is not just on skill development but also on ensuring that every child has a positive experience that boosts their confidence and love for the sport!

Capoeira

(Available for PY)

In Capoeira, students are introduced to the vibrant world of this Afro-Brazilian martial art and dance
form. Students engage in a blend of rhythmic movements, acrobatics, and music that combine to
create an immersive and dynamic experience. They learn various kicks, dodges, and spins, which
they can perform solo or in pairs in a playful, non-competitive environment.
Capoeira’s unique blend of physicality and musicality encourages children to express themselves
creatively through movement and rhythm. The activity also promotes discipline, respect for others,
and cultural awareness, as children become familiar with the history and traditions of Capoeira. This
inclusive activity empowers children to embrace their creativity while developing physical coordination
and agility.

Library Club

(Available for PY)

Looking for a cosy place to play board games and read fantastic books? Redbridge Library Club is a
reading and board games club in our School Library.
In each session, our dedicated Librarian will choose a story to read and open the conversation with
the students. It is all about promoting social skills, positive mental attitude, flexibility, open
mindedness, patience and communication… accompanied by a much-appreciated cup of tea!

Chess

(Available for EY)

he best game there is for developing logical and precise thinking! 

Chess develops critical mental and emotional skills. Experts have conducted a number of recent studies showing the considerable benefits of learning to play chess:

– Encourages patience, memory, concentration and problem solving.

– Demands inductive and deductive reasoning.

– Requires that students break down a problem, then put it back together – Involves recall, analysis, judgement, and abstract reasoning.

– Improves decision-making.

– Increases self-confidence and organisational habits.

Surf

(Available for PY & Secondary School)

Learn to ride the ocean with Tiago Pires’s Surf School, the first Portuguese surfer to join the world’s championship tour, at his Surf School in Fonte da Telha. 

Surfing is one of the most exciting and creative action sports and not only can you practise it as a recreational activity but also as a form of art. It is fun, adventurous and can be beneficial in many ways, from building character, maintaining one’s health and offering an array of advantages including coordination, stress relief, precision, reflexes and patience. 

The Inventors

(Available for PY)

The Inventors is a portuguese startup dedicated to the development of educational programs around STEAM -Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths – to empower a new generation of young inventors.

This club is perfect to develop student’s curiosity, creativity and problem-solving skills through hands-on activities and innovative projects. The Inventors Club encourages children to think outside the box and explore their creative potential. They will learn to design and build unique inventions.

The main goals of The Inventors’ activities are the development of self-confidence and passion for the subjects, tools and projects.

Movie Makers

(Available for PY)

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!

In this after school activity, students work with a professional and trained actor and, with their group, develop and deepen their acting skills for film. Students do so within a safe yet open and creative environment where they feel comfortable, motivated, and engaged in a meaningful way. 

Students are involved in all the processes inherent in film making – from creating the storyline to learning to act, performing in front of the camera and supporting in the  final editing, ensuring their active participation and co-creation.

Hip Hop

(Available for PY)

Guided by Dance Spots choreographers, students learn a variety of hip-hop dance styles, including breaking, popping, and locking. Through rhythm, body isolations, and dynamic movements, they develop coordination, flexibility, and confidence in their dancing abilities. 

Hip Hop encourages children to add their personal flair to the dance routines and foster self-expression.

Visual Arts

(Available for PY)

Visual art is a fundamental component of the human experience reflecting the world and the time in which we live. Art helps students understand our history, our culture, our lives, and the experience of others in a manner that cannot be achieved through other means. 

During this class students have an introduction to the History of Art before being introduced to drawing, painting and sculpting. 

This activity, led by skilled instructors from the renowned Escola de Belas Artes Pedro Serrenho, will help students discover their preferred artistic styles and expand their creative horizons!

Tennis

(Available for PY & Secondary School)

Ace your tennis skills with FredGil Academy!

Tennis is a great sport that offers a perfect balance of exercise and entertainment. It improves hand-eye coordination, agility, and cardiovascular fitness, all while honing concentration and strategic thinking.

Fred Gil is a former Portuguese professional tennis player on the ATP circuit, who launched his academy a few years ago to share his best tips!

Basket

(Available for PY)

A nice way to stay active after the school day ends! Our club offers a fantastic opportunity for students to learn the fundamentals of basketball, develop their skills, and enjoy the camaraderie of team sports.

Basketball is a dynamic sport that offers an excellent full-body workout. Our sessions, in our gym hall, are designed to keep your child moving, improve their endurance, and promote a healthy lifestyle. Basketball emphasises the importance of teamwork, communication, and good sportsmanship. Your child will learn to work together with peers, understand the value of cooperation, and develop lasting friendships.

Music Composition

(Available for PY)

In this activity, young participants are empowered to become budding composers, exploring their creativity and musical talents. Students will experiment with various musical instruments and software, creating original compositions or arranging existing pieces. 

Through playful improvisation and structured exercises, children have the opportunity to express their emotions and ideas through sound, honing their listening skills and developing a deeper appreciation for music. 

Ultimately, the music composition activity provides a rewarding and enriching experience that nurtures children’s artistic expression and passion for music, paving the way for potential future musicians and composers.

Wall Climbing

(Available for PY & Secondary School)

Nestled under the iconic Ponte 25 de Abril, at Escala25, this club offers an amazing outdoor climbing experience, combining fun and fitness. Climbing is a fantastic way for youngsters to develop physical strength, coordination, and problem-solving skills. It encourages perseverance, boosts confidence, and fosters a sense of achievement.

Escala25 facilities are designed to cater to climbers of all levels.

Their experienced instructors are dedicated to teaching the fundamentals of climbing in a secure and supervised environment.

Cross Fit

(Available for PY & 2.º Ciclo)

Designed specifically for young athletes, this programme at Quimera Campo de Ourique provides a fun, safe, and effective way for children to develop a love for fitness and an active lifestyle.

CrossFit Kids is a specialised programme that follows the acclaimed CrossFit methodology, tailored to meet the unique needs of youngsters. Classes will focus on developing key motor skills, promoting physical literacy, and fostering a positive attitude towards health and fitness.

Workouts are designed to be engaging and enjoyable, respecting the natural motor development of young participants. The CrossFit Kids program uses body weight exercises exclusively.

Illustration & Comics

(Available for PY & Secondary School)

Students develop the ability to create from the imagination, developing exercises that are proportional to the scale of knowledge acquired, by also working on different types of sensibility: aesthetic, chromatic, stain, page composition and narrative creation. 

The year culminates with the completion of a final project – comic strip or illustrated book – which brings together the knowledge acquired throughout the classes. The final project will be developed throughout the year with the teacher’s support.

Crochet & Tricot

(Available for PY)

Crochet & Tricot inspires creativity, enhances fine motor skills, and fosters self-esteem and self-confidence. It promotes a sense of fulfilment and strengthens bonds with others.

This club is a wonderful opportunity for students to learn the timeless arts of crochet and tricot (knitting).

Students explore their creative potential by designing and creating beautiful handmade items. From colourful scarves to intricate patterns, the possibilities are endless!

Crocheting and knitting improves fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, concentration and emotional regulation. These activities also teach patience and perseverance as students work on their projects. It is also a perfect way for students to unwind after a busy school day!

School Newspaper

(Available for 2.º Ciclo & Secondary School)

This exciting programme is designed to engage students in the dynamic world of journalism, writing, photography, and design, providing them with valuable skills.

Students learn to write articles on school events, student achievements, and local news, improving their writing and storytelling abilities, by engaging in interviews with teachers, students, and community members, and developing their research skills.

Participants learn the importance of accuracy and ethical journalism through thorough research and fact-checking. The school newspaper club provides a platform for students to express their thoughts, ideas, and creativity in a constructive manner and gives the opportunity to make a positive impact on the Redbridge community!

Coding

(Available for PY & Secondary School)

Learning to program allows for the development of a series of essential skills in the contemporary world, allowing young learners to be better prepared for the challenges of the digital age. Combining innovation to the global STEAM concept – Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics, coding and programming develop 21st Century Skills in its students. 

Coding does not create passive consumers of technology, but instead children who are active producers and creators of technology, whilst developing core competencies such as flexibility and adaptability; initiative; social and multicultural skills; productivity, responsibility and leadership.

Food Workshop

(Available for Secondary School)

Our Secondary students have the amazing opportunity to discover the world of food with a private chef!

In this activity, our young chefs will not only learn essential kitchen techniques but also embark on a cultural journey through the fusion of French and Middle Eastern culinary traditions.

This food experience will include, among others, making a French Pâtisserie, cooking fresh pasta, experimenting textures and flavours through blind tasting, learning about culinary design, knowing more about entrepreneurship around food… A complete experience to turn our students into real chefs!

Drama

(Available for Secondary School)

Let’s explore the enchanting world of drama and performance! 

Our Drama club is designed to ignite creativity and boost confidence. Through engaging activities and exercises, students will have the chance to express themselves freely and discover their unique artistic voices.

Led by Tiago Manaia, Portuguese actor trained at the Conservatoire National d’Art Dramatique de Paris, this activity will learn the importance of teamwork, communication, and respect for others while working together to bring a story to life. Students will practice oratory and listening skills that are crucial in everyday life.

Football with PSG Academy

(Available for Secondary School)

Led by Urban Soccer, in partnership with the prestigious PSG Academy, this After School program is designed to ensure high-quality training and continuous development for students, fostering their love for football while promoting their personal growth.

The PSG Academy’s mission is to provide top-notch training and mentorship, nurturing young talent and igniting their passion for the sport. Their experienced trainers, who has been rigorously trained by PSG, will offer age-appropriate training sessions.