The Education System in Portugal

The Education System in Portugal

Portugal offers a well-structured and accessible education system, making it a popular choice for families relocating with children. From public schools to private and international options, parents will find a wide range of educational paths tailored to their children’s needs, language preferences, and academic goals.

Overview of the Portuguese Education System

Education in Portugal is compulsory from ages 6 to 18 and is divided into four main stages:

Pre-School – Optional, for children aged 3 to 5

Basic Education – Compulsory, divided into three cycles from ages 6 to 15

Secondary Education – Ages 15 to 18, includes academic or vocational tracks

Higher Education – Universities and polytechnic institutes offering undergraduate to doctoral degrees

The curriculum in public schools is set by the Ministry of Education and includes subjects such as Portuguese, Mathematics, Sciences, History, and Physical Education. While Portuguese is the primary language of instruction, English is introduced as a second language from an early stage.

Public vs Private Education

Public schools are free to attend and widely available throughout the country. They follow the national curriculum and are a good option for families who want their children to integrate into the local community and learn the language. However, class sizes can be large, and support for non-Portuguese-speaking children may vary.

Private schools offer smaller class sizes, more personalised learning, and in some cases, bilingual instruction. Fees are generally lower than in other Western European countries, making private education an accessible option for many expat families.

International Schools in the Algarve

For families who prefer continuity with their home country’s curriculum or want instruction in English, the Algarve offers several excellent international schools. These schools follow British, American, or International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes and are popular among both expat and Portuguese families.

Some notable international schools in the Algarve include:

Nobel Algarve British International School (Lagoa & Almancil)

Vilamoura International School (Vilamoura)

Eupheus International School (Loulé)

Vale Verde International School (Burgau)

Aljezur International School (Aljezur)

Colégio Santiago Internacional (Faro)

Escola Alemã do Algarve (Silves)

Many of these schools offer a welcoming environment, multilingual support, and extracurricular activities ranging from sports to arts and sciences.

Enrolling Your Child

To enrol in a public school, you will need proof of residence, your child’s identification documents, and vaccination records. For private or international schools, admissions often include interviews, placement tests, and application fees. Early application is recommended, especially for international schools with limited spaces.

A Family-Friendly Destination

Portugal’s reputation for safety, healthcare, and warm climate is matched by its commitment to education. The Algarve, in particular, provides a unique blend of quality schooling and outdoor lifestyle, making it a desirable location for families seeking both academic opportunity and a relaxed environment.

At ICON Property, we help families not only find the perfect home but also settle into the local community. From neighbourhoods near top schools to local guidance on enrolment, we’re here to support every step of your relocation journey.