1. Introduction
Portugal has become an increasingly popular destination for expat families due to its high quality of life, affordable living costs, and excellent education options. However, moving with children presents a unique challenge—choosing the right school. Selecting a school that aligns with your child’s educational needs, language abilities, and future aspirations is crucial for a smooth transition.
In this guide, we explore the factors to consider when choosing a school in Portugal, focusing on international education options, including the unique offerings of Prime School, which provides a globally recognised Cambridge curriculum, bilingual pathways, vocational programs, and a specialised Elite Athletes Programme.
2. Understanding the Portuguese Education System
Portugal offers a variety of educational pathways, including public, private, and international schools. Understanding these options will help you make an informed decision:
- Public Schools: Free for residents but taught in Portuguese. They follow the Portuguese National Curriculum and can be challenging for non-Portuguese-speaking students.
- Private Schools: Some private schools follow the Portuguese system but may offer bilingual programs.
- International Schools: These institutions follow internationally recognised curricula such as the Cambridge Pathway, IB (International Baccalaureate), American, French, or German systems, making them ideal for expat families.
For families who prefer an internationally recognised curriculum with English-language instruction, Prime School is a leading option. Offering the Cambridge International Education Pathway from preschool to advanced levels, delivered fully in English, as well as bilingual option for Portuguese speakers, it caters to diverse student needs.
3. Factors to Consider When Choosing a School
3.1. Type of Curriculum
One of the most critical factors in selecting a school is the curriculum. International families often prefer curricula that allow for global mobility and recognition at universities worldwide.
Prime School’s Academic Offerings
- Cambridge International Education Pathway: A prestigious and globally recognised curriculum that prepares students for IGCSEs and A-Levels / AICE Diploma, fully delivered in English.
- Bilingual Pathway: Designed for native Portuguese-speaking students, this pathway offers a blend of English and Portuguese, from preschool to lower secondary. This option follows the Cambridge International curriculum, but with some classes taught in Portuguese. This prepares students for examinations (IGCSEs / A-Levels) as well as enables a smooth transition to Portuguese universities or other Portuguese schools if needed.
- Vocational Courses (BTEC Pearson): Prime School is the only international school to offer vocational training at the upper secondary and advanced levels. It provides BTEC Pearson with different courses such as design, sports, and business, equipping students with practical skills and career-focused education.
With a commitment to academic excellence, Prime School ensures that students receive an education that is both internationally recognised and locally adaptable.
3.2. Language of Instruction
Language is a key factor when choosing a school. For children who are not fluent in Portuguese, an international school offering an English-based curriculum can be the best option.
Prime School ensures that students can study entirely in English while also offering a bilingual pathway for Portuguese-speaking families. This approach allows students to maintain their native language while developing fluency in English, preparing them for both Portuguese and international higher education opportunities.
3.3. Extracurricular Activities and Specialised Programmes
A well-rounded education goes beyond academics. Extracurricular activities, sports, and special programmes can enhance a child’s learning experience.
Prime School stands out with its Elite Athletes Programme, which supports student-athletes in balancing their education with competitive sports.
Prime School’s Elite Athletes Programme
This programme is designed for students from Year 9 upwards who compete at national or international levels. It provides:
- Athletic Support: Flexible scheduling to accommodate training and competitions.
- Medical Care: Access to sports physicians and physiotherapists to ensure student-athletes stay in top form.
- Academic Guidance: Customised learning plans to help students excel in their studies while pursuing their athletic careers.
4. School Locations and Accessibility
For families moving to Portugal, school location and accessibility are important considerations. Prime School has three campuses in key areas of Greater Lisbon:
- Lisbon/Alvalade: (Ages 3–18) Ideal for families living in the city.
- Sintra: (Ages 3–14) Located in a picturesque setting, offering a strong primary and lower secondary programme.
- Estoril: (Ages 11–18) Perfect for families near the Cascais coast, offering upper secondary and advanced education.
5. Conclusion
Moving to Portugal with children is an exciting journey, and selecting the right school is a crucial step in ensuring their success and well-being. With its internationally recognised curriculum, bilingual pathways, vocational courses, and support for elite athletes, Prime School offers a comprehensive educational experience tailored to the needs of expat families.
If you’re considering Prime School for your child, explore the campuses, curriculum, and special programmes to determine if it’s the right fit for your family’s educational goals.
FAQs
1. Does Prime School follow the Portuguese curriculum?
No, Prime School follows the Cambridge International curriculum, which is recognised worldwide. However, it also offers a bilingual pathway for Portuguese-speaking families.
2. Can students transition to Portuguese universities?
Yes. The bilingual pathway enables a smooth transition to Portuguese universities or other Portuguese schools, ensuring students have multiple academic options.
3. Does Prime School offer boarding?
Yes. Prime School provides a boarding option for students aged 13–18, offering a safe and structured environment for international students.
4. What vocational courses does Prime School offer?
Prime School offers BTEC Pearson vocational courses in design, sports, and business for upper secondary and advanced students.
5. How does the Elite Athletes Programme support students?
The programme provides flexible academic schedules, medical care, and individual learning plans to help student-athletes balance their education and sports commitments.
6. Are there online meetings or webinars for expats abroad?
Yes. Prime School hosts webinars every two Fridays at 3 PM (Portugal time) to assist expat families who are considering moving to Portugal.
Moving to Portugal with Kids: How to Choose the Right School