Best International Schools in the Algarve for Expats
For families relocating to the Algarve, education is a top priority. The region is home to a growing number of international schools offering high-quality education in English and other languages. These schools cater to a diverse student body and provide globally recognised curricula such as the British, International Baccalaureate (IB), and Cambridge systems.
Whether you are settling in the western Algarve or near Vilamoura and Faro, you will find excellent options suited to your child's needs. Here is a guide to the top international schools in the Algarve for expat families.
Nobel Algarve British International School – Lagoa & Almancil
With campuses in Lagoa and Almancil, Nobel Algarve is one of the region’s most established international schools. It offers the British curriculum alongside a bilingual programme in Lagoa, combining English and Portuguese. The Almancil campus, opened in 2020, focuses solely on the British curriculum from early years to secondary school. Both campuses emphasise academic excellence, global citizenship, and personal development.
Website: nobelalgarve.com
Vilamoura International School – Vilamoura
Located in the heart of the Algarve, this school offers both the British and Portuguese national curricula. Students can follow the Cambridge Assessment International Education programme, leading to IGCSE and A-Level qualifications. The school is known for its high academic standards, cultural diversity, and strong arts and sports programmes.
Website: cisv.edu.pt
Eupheus International School – Loulé
A newer addition to the Algarve’s educational landscape, Eupheus International School in Loulé delivers the Cambridge curriculum in a nurturing, innovative environment. The school promotes a holistic approach to learning with a strong focus on technology, creativity, and personalised learning paths.
Website: eupheus.pt
Vale Verde International School – Burgau
Situated in the western Algarve near Lagos, Vale Verde offers the British curriculum for students aged 5 to 18. It has a strong track record in academic achievement and places emphasis on community values and environmental awareness.
Website: vvis.org
Aljezur International School – Aljezur
This small, independent school in the western Algarve provides a supportive and inclusive environment. It follows the Cambridge IGCSE curriculum and is known for its personal approach, small class sizes, and strong relationships between teachers and students.
Website: aljezur-international.org
Colégio Santiago Internacional – Faro
This Faro-based school offers a multilingual education for students from nursery through to secondary school. It combines international and national curricula, with a particular focus on language acquisition and cultural diversity. The learning environment is creative, collaborative, and inclusive.
Website: colegiosantiagointernacional.com
Deutsche Schule Algarve – Silves
For German-speaking families, the German School Algarve offers a German curriculum with Portuguese and English language instruction. The school caters to students from kindergarten through secondary levels and is accredited by the German government.
Website: ds-algarve.org
Choosing the right school is a key part of relocating. At ICON Property, we work with families to ensure your move to the Algarve goes smoothly, including guidance on school catchment areas and nearby neighbourhoods. Let us help you find the perfect home close to the best educational options for your children. Contact us to learn more.