People of Nobel Algarve: Paula Lourenço

Paula is a psychologist with specialization in Educational, Clinical, and Health Psychology, and holds a Master's degree in School Management and Administration. She has a strong background in strategic planning, inclusive education, and pedagogical innovation.

At Nobel Algarve British International School, Paula is the Deputy Director of the National Section, coordinates Inclusive Education, all while leading the psychology office she founded. Paula’s work focuses on building emotionally secure environments and promoting meaningful learning for all students. With over 20 years of experience, she has also worked closely with child protection and local networks, including six years at the CPCJ of Lagoa and participation in the Lagoa Social Network. Paula is known for her strategic “eagle vision”, her deeply empathetic nature, and her belief in education as a force for transformation. She is passionate about teamwork, emotional development, and creating schools where students, families, and staff feel supported and inspired.

 

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

I grew up in a small town where life moved at a peaceful rhythm. We played outside until sunset, knew our neighbours by name, and shared everything, from celebrations to challenges. That simplicity taught me the importance of human connection and being attentive to others. It shaped the way I work today, especially in how I listen to students, parents, and colleagues. Being part of a community, where people care and support one another, inspired me to help build that same feeling in the school environment.

 

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

One tradition I still hold dear is Sunday lunch with family. It wasn’t just about food, it was a moment of presence, of slowing down, of listening. Today, I value that same kind of connection in my personal and professional life. In school, I believe we create stronger relationships when we take time to truly be present with each other.

 

What’s your all-time favourite book, movie, or TV show?

The Little Prince is one of my favourite books. Its messages about imagination, friendship, and seeing with the heart resonate deeply with me. It reminds me that the most important things in life, and in education, are often invisible to the eye. This book continues to inspire how I work with children and how I view the role of emotional intelligence in learning.

 

What’s a favourite memory from your childhood?

One of my favourite memories is spending holidays with my cousins at my grandparents' house. We spent the days together, playing, talking, and exploring our surroundings. These moments deeply marked me because they showed me the value of human relationships and coexistence. Today, I value social relationships as a fundamental dimension of students' development. I believe that it is through interaction with others that children grow emotionally, learn to communicate, cooperate, and build their identity.

 

How did you become interested in working in education? 

My path started in Psychology, but I always felt drawn to work in schools. I wanted to be part of children’s growth, not only emotionally, but also in their learning journey. Education allows me to combine everything I love – supporting people, thinking strategically, creating solutions, and making a positive difference in young lives.

 

Tell us about your greatest achievement 

My greatest achievement was becoming a mother. Motherhood transformed me profoundly, it taught me to love unconditionally, to listen with more patience, and to see the world through different eyes. Being a mother made me a more empathetic professional, more sensitive to the needs of children and families. It also gave me a new perspective on the balance between demand and affection, something I carry with me every day in my work with students, colleagues, and parents.

 

What is your steepest learning curve?

Balancing time between work, family, and personal wellbeing has been a challenge. I care deeply about what I do, which makes it easy to give too much. Over the years, I’ve learned to manage my time better, set boundaries, and protect space for rest and reflection, not just for me, but also to model this balance for my team and students.

 

How do you remain curious?

Curiosity is an essential part of who I am. I stay curious by working with my colleagues, reading, researching, and listening to podcasts on topics that inspire me. I enjoy exploring new ideas, reflecting on different perspectives, and learning from others. I believe that curiosity is the engine of innovation and growth – both personal and professional – and I always strive to nurture this spirit of discovery in my daily life.

 

What motivates you to keep going during challenging times?

I focus on my 'why', knowing that my work can have a positive impact on people’s lives. When things get tough, I think of a student who found their voice, a parent who felt heard, or a colleague who felt supported. That sense of purpose gives me strength, even in times of uncertainty.

 

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

My parents had a huge influence on who I am. From my father, I inherited strength and resilience, the ability to face challenges with courage and determination. From my mother, I learned empathy, the ability to put myself in others' shoes, and to care with sensitivity. Both, in their own way, taught me that it is possible to be firm and gentle at the same time, a balance I strive to maintain in all areas of my life.

 

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

“Don’t be afraid to lead with your heart.” This advice helped me understand that empathy is not a weakness – it’s a strength. It taught me to trust my instincts and remain grounded in values, especially when leading people or making difficult decisions.

 

Nobel Algarve is a great place because…

… it is a true family. Here, we feel that we belong, that we are valued, and that we walk together. There is a spirit of mutual help, listening, and sharing that makes the environment unique. At Nobel, each student is seen as a complete being, and each team member is recognized for their contribution. It is a place where we build with heart, innovate with purpose, and where everyone – students, families, and professionals – feels part of something bigger.

 

What would you like the community of Nobel to know about you?

That I am fully committed. I care about every student, every family, and every member of our team. I believe in honest communication, in building trust, and in working together towards a shared vision of inclusive and excellent education.

 

What’s something you hope to accomplish in the next five years?

I hope to continue developing inclusive projects and strategic initiatives that support the wellbeing and success of every student. I also want to strengthen our school’s emotional education and contribute to building a truly collaborative, inspiring team.