How to Choose the Best International School for Your Child in Lisbon, Portugal
Published:
Last updated: 4 January 2024
Contents
Understanding the landscape of international schools in Lisbon
Criteria for choosing an international school
Understanding different educational systems
School culture and environment
Top international schools in Lisbon
- British School of Lisbon
- Carlucci American International School of Lisbon
- German School of Lisbon
- Greene's College Oxford in Estoril
- International Christian School of Cascais
- IPS Cascais - British International School
- The Lisboan International School
- French School of Lisbon
- Oeiras International School
- Park International School
- Prime School
- Redbridge School
- St. Dominic’s International School
- St. George’s School, Cascais
- St. James’s Primary School
- St. John’s School
- St. Julian’s School
- St. Peter’s International School
- Swedish School of Lisbon
Introduction
So you're living in Lisbon or the surrounding area, or planning to move, and you're keen to find the best international school for your child?
Of course this is important for your child's happiness and development in the short-term, but it will undoubtedly also have an impact on what options are open to your child in the future. This could be in regard to universities, colleges or even future employment opportunities and job prospects.
Read on to ensure that your child benefits from their time in Lisbon, in a way that will add to their future opportunities.
Having an excellent educational experience, in inspiring surroundings, with lots of cultural options can shape a child's perspective on the world - promoting a passion for acquiring knowledge, and developing crucial life skills.
Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal, offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. It’s not just the beautiful streets and buildings, the warm Mediterranean climate, or the beautiful beaches nearby that make Lisbon an attractive destination for families from around the world. The city’s commitment to providing top-quality education, particularly through its international schools, is also a significant factor. International schools in Lisbon are renowned for their rigorous academic programs, highly qualified teachers, and diverse student populations.
These schools follow internationally recognised curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), or the curricula from the relevant country, for example, Britain, France, Sweden, Germany or the USA, providing students with a seamless transition if they move to other countries. Moreover, these schools place a strong emphasis on holistic development, promoting extracurricular activities and community involvement alongside academic study.
In addition, living in Lisbon provides students with an immersive cultural experience. The city’s rich history and cosmopolitan lifestyle offer endless opportunities for learning outside the classroom. From exploring historical monuments and museums, to participating in local events and festivals, students gain a deep understanding and appreciation for Portuguese culture while also being part of a diverse international community.
Choosing the right international school in Lisbon is about finding the best fit for your child’s individual needs and aspirations. It involves considering factors such as the curriculum, the teaching approach and philosophy, the school culture, location, and many other considerations. This decision will play a pivotal role in shaping your child’s future, so make sure you're prepared by reading this guide to choosing the right school.
If you are keen to find out which schools are in which neighbourhood, and how the neighbourhoods are, then make sure you check out our Complete Guides to the Best Neighbourhoods in and around Lisbon:
Part 1: The best neighbourhoods in the city
Part 2: The best neighbourhoods outside the city
Part 3: The best neighbourhoods south of the river
We also have a guide to the best parks and gardens in Lisbon, which may be of interest to both children and adults.
Understanding the landscape of international schools in Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is home to a rich variety and large number of international schools that cater to diverse educational needs and cultural backgrounds. A progressive city steeped in history, Lisbon provides the perfect backdrop for learning, fostering an environment of cultural exchange and mutual respect.
The city is home to numerous international private schools, each with its own unique ethos and curriculum offerings. These range from globally recognised curriculums like the International Baccalaureate (IB), British A-levels, and American high school diplomas to more localised educational systems. This diversity ensures that families from all over the world can find a suitable educational environment for their children.
Amongst the most renowned is the Carlucci American International School of Lisbon (CAISL), which offers an American curriculum alongside the IB program. St. Dominic’s International School is another prestigious institution that provides an all-rounded IB education from primary to diploma level. The British School of Lisbon follows the English National Curriculum, making it a popular choice for British expats.
For parents seeking a bilingual education for their children, the French Lycée Charles Lepierre and the German School of Lisbon offer rigorous academic programs in both their respective languages and in Portuguese. Additionally, schools like the International Preparatory School focus on a more inclusive approach, blending elements from different educational systems to create a unique and balanced learning experience.
These schools not only offer high-quality education but also provide students with opportunities to immerse themselves in a multicultural environment. Cultural diversity is at the heart of these institutions. They welcome students from different parts of the world, creating a global community within their classrooms. This enriches the learning experience as students can gain insights into different cultures, traditions, and perspectives.
Moreover, these schools actively promote global learning through numerous cultural events, exchange programs, and globally-focused curricula. These activities help students develop an understanding of global issues and foster a sense of international mindedness.
In conclusion, Lisbon’s international schools offer a harmonious blend of high-quality education and cultural diversity. They provide an enriching learning environment that fosters global understanding and prepares students to be competent leaders in an increasingly interconnected world.
Criteria for choosing an international school
When looking for an international school in Lisbon, Portugal, there are several key criteria to consider to make sure the choice serves the best interests of the student.
The academic reputation and curriculum of the school are paramount. The recognition and respect a school commands, both within Portugal and on an international scale, can significantly impact a student's future education. Some international schools offer globally revered curriculums such as the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), the International Baccalaureate (IB), and Advanced Placement (AP).
Choosing a school providing these programmes will ensure students obtain qualifications respected worldwide, facilitating entry into top universities globally. Understanding the distinction between different curricula is also crucial, as each caters differently to student needs and future plans. For example, IB emphasises independent thinking and holistic development, while AP offers rigorous, university-level content to students.
The school's expertise is another significant factor to take into account. The quality of teaching staff is often a reflection of the school's academic caliber. Teachers should be experienced, highly qualified, and represent diverse backgrounds. Having a multicultural faculty promotes a global perspective in education, exposing students to various cultures, global issues, and languages. This richness in diversity helps develop globally minded individuals, ready to thrive in any international setting.
Thirdly, facilities play a vital role in nurturing a conducive learning environment.
Modern, well-equipped classrooms, expansive libraries filled with a rich collection of literary and educational resources, advanced laboratories for practical experiments, state-of-the-art sports facilities, and creative art studios encourage all-rounded development. They meet not just the academic needs, but also facilitate physical, creative, and personal growth, helping to fully realise each student's potential.
Location is a further critical consideration. The school's proximity to your home and the ease of commute, especially in a bustling city like Lisbon, can largely affect the practicality of daily attendance.
Finally, extracurricular activities are integral to a balanced education. Schools with robust programmes in arts, sports and various interest clubs, provide opportunities for students to pursue their passions beyond the classroom, fostering individual interests and talents. These activities also help in development of teamwork, leadership, time management, and social skills. Therefore, when choosing an international school in Lisbon, consider its commitment to holistic development.
To sum up, when opting for a school, it's important to ensure it meets these criteria to ensure a complete, high-quality education.
Understanding different education systems
Education systems vary greatly around the world, each one reflecting the culture, history, and priorities of its respective society. Understanding these differences is crucial, particularly for expatriate families looking to align their child’s education with their home country’s system or future study plans.
The education system in Portugal is well-developed and divided into several stages: pre-primary (for children under the age of six), basic education (for ages six to 15), secondary education (for ages 15 to 18), and higher education (universities and polytechnics).
Basic education, which is mandatory and free, is divided into three cycles. The first cycle is for four years, the second cycle for two years, and the third cycle for three years. After completing basic education, students can choose between general courses or vocational courses in secondary education.
Higher education in Portugal consists of both public and private institutions, with a greater emphasis on public universities. Two of the most prestigious universities are the University of Lisbon and the University of Porto.
The British education system is known for its rigorous standards and a structured approach. It is divided into four key stages, with examinations at the end of each stage. A-Levels (Advanced Level) are the final examinations taken, which determine university placements.
The American education system, on the other hand, is more flexible and holistic. There is a focus on a comprehensive education, where students are encouraged to explore different subjects before specialising. The high school diploma is the qualification achieved at the end of the secondary school, and SAT scores largely determine university admissions.
In contrast, the French education system emphasises intellectual rigour and discipline. Education is compulsory from ages 3 to 16, with students taking the Baccalaureate exam at the end of secondary school. This exam is notoriously tough, testing a wide range of subjects.
The German education system places a strong emphasis on vocational training. After four years of primary education, students are tracked into different types of secondary schools based on their abilities: Gymnasium for the university-bound, Realschule for intermediary students, and Hauptschule for less academic students.
As a schools expert in Lisbon, Portugal, I understand how these various systems can seem overwhelming. Aligning your child’s education with your home country’s system or future study plans involves several factors.
Considerations include:
-
The length of your stay: If it’s short-term, an International school teaching your home country’s curriculum might be best.
-
The age of your child: Younger children are generally more adaptable to different teaching methods.
-
Your child’s academic strengths and future aspirations: Some systems may cater better to their talents or desired career path.
-
Language proficiency: If you plan to return to your home country, maintaining your child’s proficiency in your native language will be important.
Making an informed decision will ensure your child’s educational journey is as smooth and beneficial as possible.
School culture and environment
The ethos and values of a school are critical in shaping a child’s learning and development. In Lisbon, schools embody an inclusive, multicultural, and community-based ethos that aligns with the values of many families. They promote respect, empathy, and understanding- values that are crucial in today’s global society.
If you believe in the importance of diversity and inclusivity, Lisbon schools offer a nurturing environment. They celebrate differences and encourage students to learn from each other’s backgrounds and experiences. This approach fosters empathy and acceptance, shaping well-rounded individuals who are prepared to engage in a diverse world.
Moreover, Lisbon schools uphold the value of community participation. They foster strong relationships between students, teachers, and parents, emphasising the importance of collaborative efforts in nurturing a child’s growth. If your family values community involvement and cooperative learning, this aligns well with the practices in Lisbon schools.
The role of a supportive and inclusive environment in a child’s development cannot be overstated. It encourages children to express themselves freely and build their self-confidence. A supportive school climate also helps children feel valued and acknowledged, thereby enhancing their motivation to learn.
In an inclusive setting, children are exposed to varying perspectives, cultivating their critical thinking skills. They learn to appreciate diversity, preparing them for a multicultural world. Overall, the culture and environment of schools in Lisbon provide an enriching framework that aligns with many families’ values and plays a pivotal role in the holistic development of children.
Practical considerations
When considering practical aspects of school or college admission, two key factors come into prominence: the cost and the admission process itself. Both of these factors significantly contribute to the decision-making process and require careful evaluation.
Cost
Tuition fees are typically the most significant expense associated with education. However, one must bear in mind that the cost of education goes beyond tuition. There are additional costs such as uniforms, books, stationery, equipment for certain subjects, and potentially even technology requirements such as laptops or tablets. Some institutions may also charge extra for food or transportation services.
Field trips, whether educational or recreational, often carry additional costs as well. These could include travel expenses, entrance fees to locations visited, and even the cost of meals during the trip.
Moreover, there can be costs associated with extracurricular activities such as club memberships, sports equipment, and uniforms or costumes for performing arts activities.
Assessing value for money is another critical aspect. While a more expensive school might offer better facilities or more experienced teachers, it’s essential to evaluate if these advantages align with your child’s needs and ambitions. Remember that higher cost does not necessarily equate to better quality.
Admission Process
Understanding the admission process of the institution is crucial. The procedure can vary significantly from one institution to another. Some may require entrance exams or interviews, while others might rely solely on previous academic records. It’s also common for schools to request letters of recommendation.
Common requirements include submitting an application form (usually online), providing academic records, and sometimes proof of the student’s abilities in certain areas (like sports or arts) if the institution has a specific focus.
Deadlines are another important part of the admission process. Missing a deadline can result in the application being rejected outright. Therefore, ensure that you are aware of all relevant dates and complete all necessary steps on time.
In conclusion, understanding the costs associated with education and the details of the admission process are vital practical considerations when choosing an educational institution. They require time and careful evaluation to ensure you make the best possible decision.
Top international schools in Lisbon
Here we list our picks (in alphabetical order) from the many international schools in and around Lisbon. We include schools in a variety of locations - from central Lisbon, to Oerias, Carcavelos, Cascais, Sintra, and even over the bridge in the Margem Sul. The schools included also reflect a variety of educational approaches and systems from different countries, so you can find your child the perfect school for them.
British School of Lisbon
Location:
R. de São Paulo 89, 1200-425 Lisboa, Portugal
Ages:
3 to 11 years
Pros:
- High academic standards based on the UK National Curriculum.
- Multicultural environment with students from various backgrounds.
- Strong focus on personal, social, and emotional development.
- Small class sizes ensuring individual attention.
- Wide range of extracurricular activities.
Cons:
- Limited to primary level education, students will have to switch schools after age 11.
- Fees might be high for some families.
- The school may have a waiting list due to its popularity.
Cost:
The annual tuition fee ranges approximately from €9,000 to €11,500 depending on the year group. Additional costs may include a non-refundable
Website:
Carlucci American International School of Lisbon
Location:
R. António dos Reis 95, 2710-144 Sintra
Ages:
Pre-K to 12th grade (Ages 3-18)
Pros:
- Globally recognised American curriculum
- International Baccalaureate (IB) program offered
- Multicultural environment with students from over 60 nationalities
- Small class sizes promoting personalised attention
- Wide range of extra-curricular activities, including arts and sports
Cons:
- High tuition fees
- Location may be inconvenient for some families living in central Lisbon
- Some parents have noted that the school’s communication can be improved
Cost:
Tuition fees vary depending on grade level. As a guideline, the annual fee for the 2022/23 academic year was between €10,700 - €21,000.
Website:
Deutsche Schule Lissabon (German School of Lisbon)
Location:
Avenida Duarte Pacheco Pereira, 32, 1400-138 Lisbon, Portugal
Ages:
Students from Kindergarten to High School (approximately 3 to 18 years old)
Pros:
- Bilingual education (German and Portuguese)
- Internationally recognized German school abroad
- Offers both German and Portuguese diplomas
- Wide range of extracurricular activities
- Small class sizes for individual attention
Cons:
- Tuition may be higher than local schools
- Intense curriculum may be challenging for some students
- Not centrally located, which may pose transportation difficulties
Cost:
- Kindergarten: €3,700 per year
- Primary school (1st - 4th grade): €4,100 per year
- Secondary school (5th - 12th grade): €4,400 per year
Website:
Greene's College Oxford in Estoril
Location:
R. Dom Afonso Henriques, 2765-576 Estoril
Ages:
16 - 19 years
Pros:
- Personalised learning approach
- Small class sizes for focused attention
- Strong emphasis on university preparation
- International environment
Cons:
- Limited extracurricular activities
- Relatively new institution, lacks long-standing reputation
- Limited boarding facilities
Cost:
Approximately €20,000 - €30,000 per annum
Website:
International Christian School of Cascais
Location:
Rua António Andrade Júnior, 35 2750-165 Cascais, Portugal
Ages:
The school caters to students from Kindergarten through to Grade 12 (approximately ages 5-18).
Pros:
- The school provides a biblically-centred and culturally diverse education.
- It follows an American-based curriculum, which can be beneficial for expat families.
- It offers a sports program and a variety of extracurricular activities.
- The student-teacher ratio is low, ensuring individual attention for each student.
- The school community is small and tightly knit, fostering a family-like atmosphere.
Cons:
- The school’s religious focus might not align with every family’s beliefs or educational preferences.
- As it follows an American curriculum, it might not be the best fit for those looking for a British, Portuguese or International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum.
- The school is situated in Cascais, which might require a long commute for families living in other parts of Lisbon.
Cost:
Tuition fees for the International Christian School of Cascais range from €5,000 to €8,000 per year depending on the grade level. Additional costs may include application fees, book fees, and other miscellaneous costs.
Website:
IPS Cascais - British International School
Location:
Rua Cesário Verde, 395 Pampilheira, 2750-657 Cascais, Portugal
Ages:
3 to 18 years
Pros:
- Offers the British Curriculum, following the English National Curriculum from Early Years through to IGCSE and A-Level
- Small class sizes for personalised attention
- Multicultural environment with students from over 45 different nationalities
- Wide range of extracurricular activities
- Excellent facilities including sports fields, swimming pool, science labs, and art studios
Cons:
- Could be quite expensive for some families
- Located outside of central Lisbon, which might be inconvenient for some
- High demand could mean limited availability or waiting lists
Cost:
- The annual tuition fee varies between €7,800 for Early Years to €17,100 for Year 12 & 13
Website:
The Lisboan International School
Location:
R. Maria Luísa Holstein, 1300-388 Lisboa
Ages:
3-18 years
Pros:
- Comprehensive international curriculum.
- Multicultural environment promoting diversity.
- Highly qualified teaching staff.
- Wide range of extracurricular activities.
- Excellent facilities including science labs, sports fields, and art studios.
Cons:
- Tuition can be expensive for some families.
- Located in central Lisbon, which may be far for families living outside the city.
- High student to teacher ratio.
Cost:
- Registration Fee: €500
- Yearly Tuition: €12,000 - €20,000 (varies based on grade level)
Website:
Lycée Français Charles Lepierre (French School of Lisbon)
Location:
Avenida António Augusto de Aguiar 56, 1050-017 Lisboa, Portugal
Ages:
From 3 to 18 (Ecole Maternelle to Lycée)
Pros:
- Bilingual education (French and Portuguese)
- High academic standards
- Wide range of extracurricular activities
- International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme offered
Cons:
- Competitive admission process
- Tuition may be high for some families
- Mostly French curriculum, which may not appeal to all
- Limited spots for non-French citizens
Cost:
Tuition varies between €5,000 - €10,000 annually depending on grade level and nationality.
Website:
Oeiras International School
Location:
Quinta da Nossa Senhora da Conceição, R. Antero de Quental 7, 2780-051 Oeiras, Portugal
Ages:
3 to 18 years
Pros:
- Offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program for every age group
- Small class sizes ensure personalized attention
- Multilingual environment promoting global understanding
- Strong emphasis on sports and extracurricular activities
- Fosters an inclusive and diverse environment
Cons:
- Tuition may be higher than national average
- Located outside of city center, which might pose commuting issues
- Admission can be competitive due to limited space
Cost:
Tuition fees vary depending on the grade level. For detailed fee structure, please refer to the school’s official website.
Website:
Park International School
Location:
Three locations around Lisbon
Ages:
From 3 months to 18 years
Pros:
- Offers International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme
- Cultivates a multicultural environment
- Strong emphasis on languages, sports, and arts
- Small class sizes, providing individualised attention
Cons:
- High tuition fees
- Limited spots available, often leading to a waiting list
- Lack of a large campus
Cost:
The cost varies with the grade level. For the 2023/2024 academic year, annual tuition ranges from €7,825 for creche to €19,485 for high school.
Website:
Prime School
Location:
Lisbon, Sintra, Estoril
Ages:
6-18 years
Pros:
- International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum
- Multilingual learning environment
- Small class sizes for individual attention
- Modern teaching facilities
- Extracurricular activities and clubs
Cons:
- Tuition can be expensive for some families
- Limited sports facilities
- Admission can be competitive
Cost:
- Primary Years (6-11): €7,000 per annum
- Middle Years (12-16): €8,000 per annum
- Diploma Years (17-18): €9,000 per annum
Website:
Redbridge School
Location:
R. Francisco Metrass 97, 1350-164 Lisboa
Ages:
From 6 to 14 years old
Pros:
- Multilingual education (English, Portuguese, and Spanish)
- Promotes holistic development of students
- State-of-the-art facilities
- International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum
- Strong emphasis on creativity and critical thinking
Cons:
- Extra-curricular activities are limited
- Limited admission slots due to small class sizes
- May not suit parents who prefer traditional teaching methods
Cost:
Approximately 7,000 to 12,000 Euros per year (varies depending on grade level and additional services)
Website:
St. Dominic’s International School
Location:
Rua Maria Brown, Outeiro de Polima, 2785-816 São Domingos de Rana, Portugal
Ages:
3 to 18 years old
Pros:
- International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP).
- Multicultural environment with students from over 60 different nationalities.
- High-quality facilities including science labs, art and design studios, and a sports complex.
- Broad extracurricular activities including sports, music, drama, and clubs.
- Positive student teacher relationship with a focus on individual student growth.
Cons:
- Tuition fee can be quite high for some families.
- Location may require commuting for those not living nearby.
- School size could be overwhelming for some students.
- Some parents have noted communication between school and parents could be improved.
Cost:
The annual fee ranges from €7,980 to €19,180 depending on the grade level. There may also be additional costs for registration, materials and extra-curricular activities.
Website:
St. George’s School, Cascais
Location:
Rua dos Depósitos de Água, 339, 2750-561 Cascais
Ages:
3 to 18 years
Pros:
- Offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, which is recognised worldwide
- Small class sizes ensure personalized attention to each student
- Proactive in promoting a globally-minded and diverse learning environment
- Excellent facilities including a library, science labs, art studio, music rooms, sports facilities
- Strong focus on extra-curricular activities
Cons:
- The school fees might be high for some families
- Located outside of Cascais city center, which may require some commute
- As the school follows an international curriculum, it may not align with the Portuguese education system
Cost:
- The school fee information isn’t publicly available on their website. It is recommended to contact the school directly for accurate fee information.
Website:
https://www.stgeorgesschool.pt
St. James’s Primary School
Location:
Av. Sintra 1154, 2750-494 Cascais, Portugal
Ages:
For children aged 3 to 11 years old
Pros:
- British curriculum which is globally recognized
- The school offers a nurturing and inclusive environment
- Small class sizes for personalized attention
- Highly qualified and experienced teaching staff
- Emphasis on holistic development of student
Cons:
- Limited sports facilities compared to larger schools
- Higher fee structure due to the international curriculum
- May not provide an immersive experience of the local culture and language
Cost:
The cost is around €7,500 per year. Check with the school for more information.
Website:
St. John’s School
Location:
Rua do Douro, 341, Areia, 2750-064 Cascais, Portugal
Ages:
3-18 years old
Pros:
- A British school offering Cambridge International curriculum
- Small class sizes for more personalized attention
- Multicultural environment with students from over 20 nationalities
- Strong emphasis on extracurricular activities including music, art, and sports
- Convenient location near the center of Cascais
Cons:
- Limited facilities compared to larger international schools
- Tuition can be expensive for some families
- Limited school bus routes, may require parent transportation
Cost:
The tuition fee varies depending on the age and grade level of the student. The tuition fee ranges from €7,500 to €14,000 per year.
Website:
https://www.stjohns-school.com
St. Julian’s School
Location:
Quinta Nova, Av. Jorge V 374, 2775-588 Carcavelos
Ages:
3 to 18 years
Pros:
- Offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma
- Wide range of extracurricular activities
- Strong emphasis on community and global citizenship
Cons:
- Tuition can be expensive compared to other schools
- Located outside central Lisbon which may be inconvenient for some families
Cost:
- Primary School (Years 1 to 6): €9,870 - €10,890 per year
- Secondary School (Years 7 to 13): €11,660 - €14,160 per year
Website:
St. Peter’s International School
Location:
Rua da Abelheira, 2790-011 Carnaxide, Portugal
Ages:
From 3 to 18 years old
Pros:
- Bilingual education (Portuguese and English)
- International Baccalaureate (IB) program offered
- Wide range of extracurricular activities
- Small class sizes for personalized attention
- Modern facilities with spacious classrooms, science labs, and sports areas
Cons:
- Higher tuition fees compared to local public schools
- Located on outskirts of Lisbon, which may not be convenient for everyone
- Admission process can be competitive
Cost:
Approximately €7,000 - €15,000 per year, depending on the grade level and specific program. Additional fees may apply for extracurricular activities and school trips.
Website:
Swedish School of Lisbon
Location:
Rua do Sacramento à Lapa 24, 1200-792 Lisboa, Portugal
Ages:
3 to 16 years old
Pros:
- For this school, write location, ages, pros, cons, cost and website Swedish-based education in a multicultural environment
- Teaches Swedish, English and Portuguese languages
- Small class sizes for individualised attention
- Encourages international mindedness and critical thinking
- Strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental awareness
Cons:
- Limited sports and extracurricular activities compared to larger schools
- May not suit if the child’s future education is planned outside Sweden
Cost:
Annual fees (30 hours per week) are around €8,000.
Website:
https://svenskaskolanlissabon.com/
The role of parental involvement
The significance of parental involvement in a child’s education is profound and far-reaching. It not only helps create an enriching environment conducive to learning, but also facilitates a strong bond between children and their parents. By being actively involved, parents can better understand their child’s learning style, strengths, and areas that need improvement, thereby fostering their child’s academic growth.
Parental engagement also serves as a cornerstone for the child’s emotional development. Children tend to feel more secure and confident when they perceive their parents as supportive stakeholders in their education. This active interest in their learning journey often results in increased motivation, better behaviour, improved social skills, and a higher likelihood of academic success.
There are multiple ways parents can be engaged in school activities. These include:
-
Regularly attending parent-teacher meetings to keep abreast of the child’s progress
-
Volunteering for school events or field trips
-
Assisting with homework or setting up study schedules at home
-
Encouraging and participating in reading activities
-
Engaging in constructive discussions about school and its daily happenings
These practices enable parents to be more in tune with their child’s school life, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of their educational experiences. Consequently, parents can provide the necessary guidance and support, reinforcing the learning that takes place within the classroom at home.
Conclusion
Choosing the right international school in Lisbon, Portugal, is a significant decision that can shape a child’s academic and personal development. Lisbon is home to numerous international schools, each offering unique curriculums, from the International Baccalaureate (IB) to British and American programs.
When selecting an institution, you should consider the school’s academic reputation, curriculum, faculty, facilities, proximity, and extracurricular activities. Understanding different international education systems and aligning them with future study plans is also essential. The school’s ethos should align with the family’s values, emphasising diversity and inclusivity.
Practical considerations like cost, additional expenses, and the admission process should be evaluated carefully. Parental involvement in a child’s education, through attending parent-teacher meetings or assisting with homework, contributes to a child’s academic success. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on the child’s personal needs and aspirations.
If you're also looking to buy property in Lisbon, then make sure you check out our "Insider's Guide to Buying Property in Lisbon". This comprehensive guide can help ensure that you avoid the pitfalls and help ensure you search is smooth and successful.
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