Lisbon

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Primary and Secondary Schools

Sections

Primary and Secondary Schools in Lisbon, Portugal

Types of Schools

  1. Public Schools

    • Overview: Funded by the government, these schools are free for residents.
    • Language of Instruction: Portuguese.
    • Enrollment: Generally based on the student’s residential area.
    • Quality: Varies by location; some schools have strong reputations.

  2. Private Schools

    • Overview: Funded through tuition fees; offer various curricula.
    • Costs: Tuition ranges from €3,000 to €15,000 per year, depending on the institution.
    • Language of Instruction: Primarily Portuguese, but many offer bilingual or English programs.
    • Enrollment: Direct application to the school; may require entrance exams.

  3. International Schools

    • Overview: Cater to expatriates and offer curricula from various countries (e.g., British, American, IB).
    • Costs: Tuition typically ranges from €5,000 to €20,000 per year.
    • Language of Instruction: English or other languages, depending on the school.
    • Enrollment: Application process varies; often includes interviews and assessments.

Enrollment Procedures

  1. Public Schools

    • Procedure:
      • Register at the local school office (Direção-Geral dos Estabelecimentos Escolares).
      • Provide proof of residence and identification.
    • Documentation Required:
      • Child’s birth certificate.
      • Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill).
      • Health card or vaccination records.

  2. Private and International Schools

    • Procedure:
      • Contact the school directly for application forms and deadlines.
      • Some schools may require an interview or assessment.
    • Documentation Required:
      • Child’s birth certificate.
      • Previous school records (if applicable).
      • Identification documents (passport, residence permit).

Considerations for Immigrants and Non-Portuguese Speakers

  • Language Support: Many international and some private schools offer language support for non-Portuguese speakers.
  • Cultural Integration: Public schools may have limited resources for non-Portuguese speakers; consider language classes or tutoring.
  • Community Resources: Engage with local expatriate communities for support and information on schools.

Quality of Education

  • Public Schools: Generally good, but quality can vary significantly by neighborhood.
  • Private Schools: Often have better facilities and smaller class sizes.
  • International Schools: High-quality education with diverse curricula; often have strong extracurricular programs.

Local Factors

  • School Year: Typically runs from September to June.
  • Holidays: Includes Christmas, Easter, and local holidays; check specific school calendars.
  • Cultural Activities: Schools often incorporate local culture and traditions into their curriculum, providing a rich educational experience.

Summary

Families moving to Lisbon should consider their educational preferences and budget when choosing a school. Public schools are free but may require additional language support for non-Portuguese speakers. Private and international schools offer diverse curricula and language options but come with significant tuition costs. Engaging with local communities can provide valuable insights and support during the transition.