Portugal is becoming an increasingly popular destination for expatriates and their families, partly due to its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and the presence of high-quality international schools. These institutions are crucial for families who prioritize continuity in their children’s education in an English-speaking environment. Moreover, international schools in Portugal offer various curricula including the International Baccalaureate (IB), British Curriculum (IGCSE and A-Levels), and the American Curriculum, among others.
International Preparatory School (IPS): Located in Lisbon, IPS offers a British-based curriculum for children from 3 to 11 years old. The school focuses on creating a nurturing environment that encourages inquiry and exploration.
United Lisbon International School: This is a modern international school that offers education from Early Childhood to Grade 12. It provides the US curriculum and the IB Diploma Programme, preparing students for global higher education.
St. Julian’s School: St. Julian’s combines elements of British and Portuguese education systems, serving students from ages 3 to 18. It offers the IB Diploma and British IGCSE and A-level qualifications.
Carlucci American International School of Lisbon: An American school that caters to a diverse international community. It offers an American curriculum from Pre-K to Grade 12, and includes the IB Diploma Programme.
Oporto British School: Established in 1894, it’s one of the oldest British schools in mainland Europe. The school offers British curriculum leading to IGCSE and A-Levels.
Oporto International School (CLIP): CLIP is known for its innovative approaches to education, offering the IB Diploma Programme alongside a unique adaptation of the British curriculum from Year 1 to Year 13.
International School of Porto (CLIP): Serving students from Early Learning to Grade 12, it offers the IB curriculum and focuses on developing students’ personal and academic skills in a multicultural environment.
Lycée Français International de Porto: Catering primarily to French expatriates, this school follows the French national curriculum and offers certifications like the Brevet and the French Baccalaureate.
Vale Verde International School: Located in the picturesque Lagos region, this school offers the British curriculum from Early Years to A-Levels, emphasizing small class sizes and personalized learning.
International School of the Algarve: One of the largest international schools in southern Portugal, offering both Portuguese and British curricula, and preparing students for IGCSE and A-Level examinations.
Nobel International School Algarve: Operating in Lagoa and Almancil, this school offers a dual curriculum comprising the British system and Portuguese studies, from Preschool to Secondary.
Curriculum and Accreditation: It is crucial to understand whether the school offers a curriculum that aligns with your child’s previous education and your future plans. Additionally, check if the school is accredited by relevant educational bodies.
Language Support: For children who are not native English speakers, inquire about the availability of additional language support such as English as an Additional Language (EAL) programs.
Extracurricular Activities: These are important for holistic development. Look for schools that offer a range of sports, arts, and other clubs.
Facilities: Modern facilities can enhance the learning experience significantly. Tour potential schools to inspect their facilities like science labs, art rooms, sports fields, and technology-equipped classrooms.
Community and Support: The school should have a strong sense of community and a support system to help expat families adapt to their new environment.
Choosing the right international school in Portugal involves careful consideration of various factors including curriculum, extracurricular opportunities, and community support. Whether in Lisbon, Porto, or the Algarve, the country offers a range of reputable international schools that can provide high-quality education and foster a supportive environment for your children. This investment in your child’s education will not only contribute to their academic growth but also to their personal development in a multicultural setting.
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