Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in The Algarve

The Algarve, is a region known for its stunning coastline, pleasant climate, and vibrant expat community. While it may not have the vast number of international or bilingual schools found in larger cities, there are still several reputable institutions catering to the educational needs of expat children. Among the most popular are the International School of the Algarve and Vale Verde International School, both of which offer a diverse curriculum and a multicultural environment. Here is a list of some of the international and bilingual schools within a 40-minute drive from various towns in The Algarve.

International School of the Algarve

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Lagoa
Website: www.aljezur-international.org

The International School of the Algarve is one of the region's most well-established international schools, offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) program alongside the British curriculum. With state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, art studios, and sports fields, the school provides a comprehensive education that emphasizes academic excellence and personal growth. Extracurricular activities are abundant, ranging from music and drama to various sports and clubs.

Vale Verde International School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Lagos
Website: www.vvis.org

Vale Verde International School offers a British-based curriculum with a focus on individual learning and development. The school boasts a supportive and inclusive community, with modern facilities that include a library, computer labs, and sports areas. Students are encouraged to participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

Nobel International School Algarve

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Lagoa and Lagos
Website: www.nobelalgarve.com

Nobel International School Algarve is the largest private school in southern Portugal, offering both the British curriculum and the Portuguese national curriculum. The school is known for its excellent academic standards, diverse student body, and commitment to fostering global citizenship. Facilities include science labs, art and music rooms, and competitive sports teams.

Barlavento International Primary School

Grades: Preschool through Year 6
Location(s): Lagos

Barlavento International Primary School provides a British-style education for younger students in the Algarve. With a focus on nurturing creativity and critical thinking, the school offers a warm and welcoming environment for children to begin their educational journey. The curriculum is enriched with Portuguese language lessons, cultural studies, and a variety of hands-on learning experiences.

Aljezur International School

Grades: Year 7 through Year 13
Location(s): Aljezur
Website: www.aljezur-international.org

Aljezur International School is a small, community-oriented school offering a unique educational approach. With a commitment to sustainability and outdoor learning, the school provides a Cambridge International curriculum and encourages students to engage with the local environment. The school's intimate setting allows for personalized attention and a strong sense of community among students and staff.

Dom Fuas Roupinho International School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 9
Location(s): Albufeira

Dom Fuas Roupinho International School is a relatively new addition to the Algarve's educational landscape, offering bilingual education in Portuguese and English. The school focuses on fostering a multicultural environment where students can thrive academically and socially. With modern facilities and a curriculum that emphasizes both academic rigor and personal development, the school is quickly becoming a popular choice for expat families.