The Education System in Portugal - International Schools in Lisbon and Cascais
The Education System in Portugal
Portugal offers a robust education system divided into preschool, basic, secondary, and higher education levels. Schooling is mandatory from ages 6 to 18, with a structure similar to Brazilian, American, and British systems, but with its own unique characteristics.
Overview of Educational Stages:
- Preschool Education: Up to 6 years old (equivalent to Nursery/Kindergarten).
- Basic Education: Ages 6 to 14, divided into three cycles (equivalent to Primary/Elementary and Junior High School).
- Secondary Education: Ages 15 to 18, with academic and technical-professional options (equivalent to High School/Sixth Form).
For more details, visit the European Commission's website.
International Schools in Lisbon and Cascais
Portugal has become a top destination for expat families, with Lisbon and Cascais standing out as regions with a wide range of excellent international schools. These institutions provide a smooth transition for students, ensuring continuity in their educational curriculum if the family relocates again.
Top International Schools in Lisbon and Cascais:
PaRK International School
- Bilingual education (English and Portuguese), promoting autonomy, curiosity, and global skills.
- Campuses in Alfragide, Praça de Espanha, Restelo, and Cascais.
- Covers preschool to secondary education.
- [Learn more]
St. Julian’s School
- One of the oldest and most prestigious schools in the region, following the British curriculum.
- Located in Carcavelos, offering education from preschool to secondary, with a focus on creativity and collaboration.
- [Learn more]
United Lisbon International School
- Founded in 1955, follows the American model with an innovative approach to international education.
- Offers preschool to 3rd cycle education. Located in Lisbon.
- [Learn more]
Lisbon Montessori School
- Based on the Montessori method, ideal for parents who value a holistic development approach.
- Bilingual education (English with Portuguese support) up to the 1st cycle. Located in Cascais.
- [Learn more]
The British School of Lisbon
- Focuses on the British curriculum, ensuring high academic standards.
- Offers education up to the 1st cycle. Located in Lisbon.
- [Learn more]
St. Peter’s International School
- Located in Palmela, combining international and Portuguese education.
- Covers preschool to secondary education, emphasizing values and holistic development.
- [Learn more]
International Sharing School
- Located in Oeiras, follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) model, emphasizing multicultural respect.
- Covers preschool to secondary education.
- [Learn more]
Astoria International School
- Focuses on multilingual education (English, Portuguese, and German) with innovative teaching methods.
- Located in Lisbon.
- [Learn more]
St. Dominic’s International School
- Offers an IB-inspired curriculum in São Domingos de Rana, covering preschool to secondary education.
- [Learn more]
Carlucci American International School of Lisbon (CAISL)
- The only school in Portugal supported by the U.S. government.
- Offers an American curriculum with an IB Diploma option. Located in Sintra.
- [Learn more]
Diverse Language Schools
In addition to English, Lisbon and Cascais host schools with other language-based curricula:
- Lycée Français Charles Lepierre: French curriculum in Lisbon.
- Deutsche Schule Lissabon: German curriculum with campuses in Lisbon and Estoril.
- Instituto Español Giner de los Ríos: Spanish education based in Algés.
Location and Infrastructure
Most schools are strategically located near popular residential areas for expats, such as Cascais, Sintra, and central Lisbon. Many offer not only excellent academic programs but also extensive sports, arts, and technology facilities.
Lisbon and Cascais are rich in educational diversity, providing schools that cater to multicultural families. When choosing the right school, consider the curriculum, language, values, and proximity to your residence.
How to Choose the Best School?
With so many options, it’s essential to consider factors like language, curriculum, location, and school environment. Contact schools directly for visits and meetings with their educational teams to help make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Lisbon and Cascais offer a diverse range of international schools, reflecting the region's growing multicultural community. Whether you’re considering moving to Portugal or simply seeking quality education for your children, these schools are excellent starting points.
Ready to Find the Perfect Home?
For more information or to explore properties near the best schools in the region, don’t hesitate to contact me. I’m here to help!
As a real estate consultant, I created the Casa & Mercado Portugal blog to assist families in making a confident and smooth transition to Portugal. Contact me to find your perfect home in Lisbon, Cascais, or elsewhere in Portugal.
Warm regards,
Caroline Paes Rodrigues
Real Estate Consultant
Coldwell Banker Luxus, Cascais
📩 Email: cpaesrodrigues@cbluxus.pt
📞 Phone: +351 914 087 090
For more updates and exclusive opportunities, follow the Casa & Mercado Portugal blog!
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