People of IPS Cascais: Cristina Mateus

Cristina Mateus joined IPS Cascais this academic year and is passionate about communicating through different codes, thus teaching foreign languages became central to her life. Cristina’s teaching experience spans different curriculums and environments; from international schools to vocational training institutions.

Cristina is currently teaching languages across the school and gets inspiration for her lessons from personal social interactions, art and the world around her. She believes in meaningful, pupil-orientated learning; hoping to see that her lessons have transformative power and a humanitarian role in contributing to a more caring and peaceful world.

Where did you grow up, and what was it like there?

I grew up in the Sintra area, surrounded by the ocean, trees and fireflies.

What’s a tradition your family had while growing up that you still cherish?

Celebrating the end of the school year and beginning of Summer holidays at Feira Popular (a funfair which used to exist in Lisbon). Jumping over bonfires, celebrating São João.

What is your all-time favorite book, movie, or TV show?

I cannot choose just one. Amongst many: Valter Hugo Mãe and Ondjaki are two of my favourite writers; La Haine is one of my favourite movies; Jim Jarmusch one of my favourite film directors.

What’s a favourite memory from your childhood?

Picking up and eating pine nuts with one of my grandfathers amid the beautiful Sintra parks.

How did you become interested in working in education?

I decided I would become a teacher when I was three years old. I followed my path to make it happen and never doubted this passion.

Tell us about your greatest achievement

Being the mother of two daughters, evolving with and through them.

How do you remain curious?

By being attentive to everything around me and by inquiring. By believing we are always learning and changing. My students teach me a lot.

What motivates you to keep going during challenging times?

I try to trust the process. Family and friends’ support is equally important.

Who is someone in your life who has had a significant influence on who you are today?

My brothers as they brought principles and fun to my life; they also taught me to be resilient, given the childhood challenges and dangers they got me into.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?

 “A gente nunca se atrapalha!”  by my grandmother. It means: regardless of difficulties, we keep going, trusting and finding solutions.

IPS is a great place because....

of its welcoming, supportive staff and pupils. Because of its foundation, and its outdoor activities.