Despite significant disruptions caused by floods at the start of the academic year, the Kukula-CLIP programme has reported a successful return to activities, supporting dozens of children in their learning and development.    Between 30 March and 15 May, a total of 40 children attended educational support sessions at the Missionary House, where they received academic guidance, mentorship and access to a safe and stimulating environment. Programme coordinators highlighted the children’s strong motivation and enthusiasm to re-engage with learning after the difficult start to the term. Of the 40 children supported, 27 were girls and 13 boys, with an average age of 9.1 years. Over the course of the term, the programme delivered 32 educational support sessions and distributed 634 snacks, contributing both to academic support and student wellbeing. The initiative reported notable improvements in participants' academic performance, underscoring the value of targeted early intervention.  In Portuguese, the average grade rose from 6.23 to 11.1, while in Mathematics, it increased from 7.38 to 11.8. According to programme organisers, these gains reflect not only the structured support provided but also the sustained efforts of the children, their families and the educational team.    Coordinators emphasised that the programme’s impact extends beyond traditional academic metrics. At this stage of development, the focus is on building confidence, independence, and teamwork skills, as well as encouraging resilience and a positive attitude towards challenges.    “Learning at this age is about much more than grades,” the team noted, pointing to the importance of fostering personal and social development alongside academic progress.    Following the conclusion of the term, participants began a scheduled school break in line with the academic calendar. Activities resumed on 1 June, marking the start of a new phase of learning and continued support.    The programme also recognised the ongoing contribution of CLIP, whose support has been instrumental in maintaining access to educational opportunities for the children involved. Organisers expressed their gratitude, highlighting that continued investment in early education is critical to shaping future outcomes for young learners. 

Our CLIP Teams delivered an outstanding performance to be crowned district champions of the Girls’ Sub14 2nd Division of the Associação de Basquetebol do Porto.   The final, held on 14 June 2026 at the Fernando Gomes Municipal Pavilion in Vila Nova de Gaia, saw our players rise to the occasion with confidence, teamwork, and determination, securing a convincing 55–38 victory over GDB Leça.   Beyond the scoreline, their performance reflected months of dedication, training, and a shared commitment to improving as a team. This achievement is a testament not only to the players’ talent and hard work, but also to the support and guidance of their coaches and the encouragement of the wider school community.   We are incredibly proud of this remarkable milestone and of the way our athletes represented CLIP with such spirit and sportsmanship.

We are delighted to share that a group of F9 students, alongside members of Clippers in Motion, recently took part in our intergenerational letter exchange project.   As part of this initiative, students wrote letters to residents at Casa Maior Porto, a local care home for the elderly.   Earlier this month, the students received heartfelt replies from their new pen pals and were truly moved and excited by the experience. It has been wonderful to witness the genuine connections beginning to form through these exchanges.   Clippers in Motion are proud to continue this project, as it not only raises awareness about the lives and experiences of older members of our community, but also encourages students to reflect on their importance in society.   Through this initiative, students develop greater empathy, respect, and a deeper sense of social responsibility.   We have also learned from Casa Maior that the residents greatly cherish these letters. For many, this exchange offers a meaningful moment of connection, helping them feel less lonely and more included.   Clippers in Motion are currently organising a visit to Casa Maior, where students will have the opportunity to meet their pen pals in person and strengthen these special intergenerational bonds.