Overview of Schools in Portugal

If you’re moving to Portugal and looking for the right school for your children, you’ll find that the education system offers several options. These include public schools and a variety of international schools, each with different curricula to suit your needs. Below is a breakdown of the types of schools in Portugal and what to expect from them, along with examples of schools in the Cascais area.

1. Public Schools in Portugal

Public schools in Portugal are free and open to all residents, including expatriates. The education system is divided into several stages: pre-school (optional), primary education, and secondary education. Public schools generally teach in Portuguese, so a good grasp of the language is essential.

1.1 Primary Education (Ensino Básico)

Primary education, or Ensino Básico, covers grades 1 to 9 and is compulsory for all children. It is divided into three cycles:
• 1st Cycle (Grades 1–4): Basic literacy, numeracy, and social skills.
• 2nd Cycle (Grades 5–6): Introduction to subjects such as science, history, and physical education.
• 3rd Cycle (Grades 7–9): Students are introduced to more specialized subjects, including foreign languages and technology.
Classes are conducted in Portuguese, and students who are not fluent in the language may receive additional support.

1.2 Secondary Education (Ensino Secundário)

Secondary education is the next step and covers grades 10 to 12, after which students earn a diploma that allows them to pursue higher education or vocational training. Students choose between academic, professional, or technical pathways depending on their interests and future goals. Public secondary schools are spread across the country, and, while the language of instruction is Portuguese, some schools may offer English-taught programs.

2. International Schools in Portugal

International schools are an excellent option for expatriates, especially if you want your children to study in a language other than Portuguese. Many international schools in Portugal are located near Lisbon and Cascais, offering a range of curricula, including the British, American, and International Baccalaureate (IB) systems.

2.1 British Curriculum

The British curriculum, also known as the National Curriculum of England, is a popular choice for families who want a structured and widely-recognized educational framework. This curriculum emphasizes academic rigor and is divided into Key Stages, preparing students for GCSEs and A-levels.

St. Julian’s School
• Description: St. Julian’s is a bilingual international school offering the British curriculum along with a Portuguese program. The school has a diverse community and is known for its strong academic reputation and wide range of extracurricular activities.
• Approximate Tuition: €17,000 – €22,000 annually
• Requirements: Application form, previous school reports, recommendation letters, interview, and placement tests in English and Mathematics.
• Location: Quinta Nova, Av. Jorge V, 2775-588 Carcavelos, Portugal
St. Julian’s School Admissions

International Preparatory School (IPS)
• Description: IPS follows the British curriculum with an emphasis on a supportive and inclusive learning environment. The school is small, allowing for more personalized attention, and offers strong Portuguese language programs in addition to the English curriculum.
• Approximate Tuition: €10,000 – €15,000 annually
• Requirements: Application form, previous school reports, and an interview. Assessment tests in English and Mathematics.
• Location: Rua da Lagoa, 457, Bicesse, 2645-344 Alcabideche, Portugal
IPS Admissions

2.2 American Curriculum

The American curriculum is another option for international students, offering a flexible and well-rounded education system that culminates in a high school diploma. This curriculum is ideal for students who may eventually attend college or university in the United States.

Carlucci American International School of Lisbon (CAISL)
• Description: CAISL offers a bilingual curriculum in English and Portuguese and follows the American educational system. It is known for its strong academic programs and supportive community, preparing students for universities worldwide, including in the U.S.
• Approximate Tuition: €16,000 – €22,000 annually
• Requirements: Application form, previous school reports, recommendation letters, and an interview. Placement tests in English and Mathematics.
• Location: Rua António dos Reis, 1600-546 Sintra, Portugal
CAISL Admissions

TASIS Portugal (The American School in Portugal)
• Description: TASIS is another excellent option for those seeking the American curriculum. Located in Sintra, close to Cascais, it offers a strong academic program, focusing on personal growth and cultural understanding.
• Approximate Tuition: €18,000 – €24,000 annually
• Requirements: Application form, previous school reports, recommendation letters, and an interview. Placement tests in English and Mathematics.
• Location: Rua António Andrade, 2710-693 Sintra, Portugal
TASIS Portugal Admissions

2.3 International Baccalaureate (IB)

The International Baccalaureate (IB) program is renowned for its rigorous academic framework, promoting critical thinking and a global perspective. It is a great choice for students looking to attend universities worldwide.

St. Dominic’s International School
• Description: St. Dominic’s offers the full IB program, from the Primary Years Programme (PYP) to the Diploma Programme (DP), making it a perfect choice for families looking for a challenging and holistic education. The school has a bilingual program in English and Portuguese.
• Approximate Tuition: €14,000 – €19,000 annually
• Requirements: Application form, previous school reports, recommendation letters, interview, and placement tests in English and Mathematics.
• Location: Av. Santos e Castro, 2785-001 Monte Estoril, Portugal
St. Dominic’s Admissions

PaRK International School
• Description: PaRK International offers a bilingual English-Portuguese curriculum with an emphasis on innovative teaching methods and global citizenship. It offers the IB program and provides a supportive environment for both academic and personal growth.
• Approximate Tuition: €12,000 – €19,000 annually
• Requirements: Application form, school reports, recommendation letters, and an interview. Placement tests in English and Mathematics.
• Location: Rua da Escola Politécnica 32, 1250-102 Lisbon, Portugal
PaRK International School Admissions

Deutsche Schule Lissabon (German School of Lisbon)
• Description: Though primarily a German school, Deutsche Schule Lissabon also offers the IB program in a trilingual setting (German, Portuguese, and English). It is known for its multicultural environment and high academic standards.
• Approximate Tuition: €7,000 – €11,000 annually
• Requirements: Application form, previous school reports, and a family interview. Assessment tests in German, Portuguese, and Mathematics.
• Location: Rua Prof. Francisco Lucas Pires 11, 1600-891 Lisbon, Portugal
German School Lisbon Admissions

Portugal offers a wide variety of schooling options, from free public schools to prestigious international institutions. Whether you prefer the structured British curriculum, the flexible American system, or the globally-recognized IB program, you can find a school that fits your child’s educational needs. Many of these international schools are located near Cascais and Lisbon, making them accessible to expatriate families. Make sure to research each school carefully, taking into account their admission requirements, tuition costs, and educational philosophy to find the best fit for your child.

At Relyon Relocation, we go beyond simply helping you select and enroll your child in the right school. We assist with the entire relocation process for your family, ensuring a seamless transition to life in Portugal. From navigating legal and administrative requirements to providing support with housing and settling in, our team is here to make every step as smooth as possible. We’re committed to making your family’s journey to Portugal a successful and fulfilling experience.