Choosing an international school in Cascais isn't just about education\u2014it's about community, logistics, costs, and ultimately, whether your family thrives or merely survives the move. Get it right, and your children flourish in a multicultural environment whilst maintaining continuity in their education. Get it wrong, and you're dealing with unhappy children, strained family dynamics, and possibly reconsidering the entire relocation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Cascais area offers more than a dozen international schools, each with distinct philosophies, curricula, and communities. But the glossy brochures and polished websites don't tell you what it's actually like to attend these schools, what hidden costs exist, or how location affects your daily life. This guide provides the detailed, practical information you need to make an informed decision\u2014not just choose based on which open day impressed you most.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We'll cover every major international school serving Cascais, their curricula and philosophies, realistic costs, application processes and timelines, location and commute considerations, and what actually matters when choosing. This isn't marketing material\u2014it's what parents wish they'd known before committing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Before diving into specific schools, understand the curriculum frameworks available. Your choice affects not just what your child learns, but university options, continuity if you move again, and even teaching philosophy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The British system follows the English National Curriculum, leading to IGCSEs (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) at age 16 and A-Levels at 18. It's structured, subject-focused, and emphasizes depth over breadth. Children specialize earlier than in other systems\u2014choosing 3-4 subjects for A-Levels rather than studying broadly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This works well if you're planning to return to the UK or apply to British universities, where A-Levels are well-understood and valued. It's also familiar if your children have been in the UK system. However, the early specialization can be limiting if your child's interests change, and some parents find it narrower than other curricula.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The American system maintains breadth throughout secondary education, with students taking multiple subjects through to graduation rather than specializing. Assessment includes continuous evaluation (homework, projects, participation) alongside exams. Advanced Placement (AP) courses allow high-achieving students to study university-level material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This curriculum suits families planning to return to the US or apply to American universities. The broader approach appeals to parents who want their children to maintain well-rounded education longer. However, it's less recognized in some European university systems, and the continuous assessment approach requires consistent effort rather than exam-focused preparation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The IB Diploma Programme (ages 16-18) is genuinely international and increasingly popular. Students study six subjects (three at higher level, three at standard level) across different disciplines, write an extended essay, and complete creativity\/activity\/service requirements. It's academically rigorous and emphasizes critical thinking, international-mindedness, and research skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The IB is recognized worldwide and particularly valued by top universities. It's ideal for globally mobile families or those unsure where they'll settle. However, it's demanding\u2014some students find the workload intense\u2014and not all schools offer the full IB continuum from primary years upwards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Montessori approach emphasizes child-led learning, hands-on activities, and mixed-age classrooms. Children work at their own pace with teacher guidance rather than following rigid schedules. It develops independence, intrinsic motivation, and practical life skills alongside academics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Montessori works beautifully for some children\u2014particularly those who are self-directed learners. However, transitioning to traditional schools later can require adjustment, and it's not suitable for children who need more structure or clear external expectations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The following is an analysis of the most relevant schools in and around the Cascais region - location, curriculum, tuition fees, facilities and less tangible factors that influence whether they are the right choice for your family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Location:<\/strong> S\u00e3o Domingos de Rana (between Cascais and Lisboa) St. Dominic's is one of the oldest and largest international schools in the region, established in 1963. It sits on a substantial campus between Cascais and Lisbon, which means it draws families from both areas but requires a commute from either direction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Curriculum:<\/strong> St. Dominic's follows the English National Curriculum through to IGCSEs, then offers both A-Levels and the IB Diploma Programme for sixth form. This flexibility is valuable\u2014students can choose the pathway that suits their strengths and university plans. The school has strong academic results, particularly in sciences and mathematics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Facilities:<\/strong> The campus is extensive with good sports facilities including playing fields, tennis courts, and a swimming pool. Arts facilities are solid, and the school emphasizes extra-curricular activities. The physical space feels more like a traditional British independent school than some competitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Community:<\/strong> With over 1,100 students from approximately 40 nationalities, it's large by international school standards. The community is genuinely international though there's a strong British contingent. The size means good peer groups and extensive activities, but some families find it less intimate than smaller schools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Transport:<\/strong> The school operates an extensive bus network covering Cascais, Estoril, Lisbon, and surrounding areas. This is crucial given the location\u2014most families rely on school transport. Buses add to costs (typically \u20ac1,500-\u20ac2,500 annually) but solve the commute problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What Parents Say:<\/strong> Academic standards are high, and university outcomes are strong. Some parents appreciate the British structure and familiarity; others find it somewhat traditional compared to more progressive schools. The size means excellent facilities and programmes, but children can feel lost if they're not naturally outgoing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Location:<\/strong> Carcavelos St. Julian's is located in Carcavelos, directly on the Cascais-Lisbon train line. This location is strategically valuable\u2014easier access from Lisbon than schools further west, whilst still serving Cascais families. The school was established in 1932 and has deep roots in the expatriate community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Curriculum:<\/strong> Like St. Dominic's, St. Julian's offers both British and IB pathways for sixth form. The British curriculum dominates through to IGCSEs, with IB available for those wanting it. The dual option provides flexibility, though the school's identity is fundamentally British.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Facilities:<\/strong> The campus is more constrained than St. Dominic's or some newer schools\u2014it's an urban site rather than sprawling grounds. Facilities are good but compact. There's less outdoor space, which matters more for younger children. Recent investments have improved science and arts facilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Community:<\/strong> Around 1,000 students from diverse backgrounds. The British influence is strong historically, but the community is increasingly international. The school has a reputation for being inclusive and warm, with strong pastoral care cited by many parents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Transport:<\/strong> The Carcavelos location is a significant advantage. It's on the train line, making it accessible for older students. School buses serve Cascais and Lisbon, but the commute is shorter than to schools further out. Many Lisbon families choose St. Julian's partly for this reason.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What Parents Say:<\/strong> Academic results are strong, particularly for university placement. The pastoral care and community atmosphere are frequently highlighted\u2014many families describe feeling supported and welcomed. The constrained campus is noted but rarely cited as a dealbreaker. Location is a major positive for families wanting easier access from Lisbon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Location:<\/strong> Linh\u00f3, Sintra (north of Cascais) CAISL is the primary American-curriculum option in the region. It's situated in Linh\u00f3, between Sintra and Cascais, on a purpose-built modern campus that opened in 2017. The location is more accessible from Cascais than Lisbon, though neither is particularly close.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Curriculum:<\/strong> CAISL follows an American curriculum throughout, with Advanced Placement courses available in high school. The approach emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and continuous assessment rather than exam-focused learning. It's less structured than British schools, which some families appreciate and others find frustratingly loose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Facilities:<\/strong> The campus is modern and impressive\u2014arguably the best physical facilities of any international school in the area. State-of-the-art science labs, excellent performing arts spaces, strong athletics facilities including an indoor sports hall. The investment in infrastructure is evident throughout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Community:<\/strong> Approximately 600 students from around 40 nationalities. The American contingent is significant but not overwhelming. The community is warm and welcoming, with active parent involvement. The smaller size compared to St. Dominic's means everyone knows each other\u2014positive if you want close community, potentially limiting if your child needs broader peer groups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Transport:<\/strong> School bus service available covering Cascais, Estoril, and surrounding areas. The journey from central Lisbon is substantial\u201445+ minutes\u2014which makes this less practical for Lisbon-based families. Most CAISL families live in Cascais, Estoril, or the Sintra area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What Parents Say:<\/strong> The facilities and teaching quality are consistently praised. The American approach suits children who thrive with flexibility and project-based learning. University counselling is strong, particularly for US applications. The location is excellent for Cascais residents but problematic for Lisbon families. Community feel is strong\u2014you'll know families and feel connected quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Location:<\/strong> Quinta da Beloura, Linh\u00f3 (Sintra) TASIS Portugal is part of the international TASIS network founded in 1956. Located in Quinta da Beloura near CAISL, it offers American curriculum with an international perspective. The school has been in Portugal since 2020 and is still building its reputation in the local market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Curriculum:<\/strong> Primarily American curriculum with strong international components. Students can pursue the American High School Diploma with AP courses or the IB Diploma Programme in upper school. This dual pathway provides flexibility similar to the British schools' IB options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Facilities:<\/strong> Beautiful modern campus in Quinta da Beloura with excellent facilities including state-of-the-art technology, arts spaces, athletics facilities, and outdoor areas. The campus reflects significant investment in infrastructure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Community:<\/strong> Around 550 students representing 50+ nationalities. The community is genuinely international with no single dominant nationality. Strong emphasis on global citizenship and cultural diversity. Being relatively new to Portugal, the community is still establishing itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Transport:<\/strong> School bus services available. Like CAISL, the Sintra location favors Cascais-area families over Lisbon-based ones. The commute from central Lisbon is substantial.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What Parents Say:<\/strong> Families appreciate the strong American curriculum with international perspective and the option to pursue IB. The facilities are excellent and the teaching quality is high. As a newer school in Portugal, some parents note it's still building traditions and alumni networks that older schools have. The TASIS international network provides global connections. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Location:<\/strong> Cascais (Rua Ces\u00e1rio Verde) King's College School Cascais is part of the Inspired Education Group, one of the world's largest premium schools groups. It brings the British independent school model to Cascais with strong academic focus and traditional values.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Curriculum:<\/strong> Follows the British National Curriculum throughout, with IGCSEs and A-Levels. The approach is traditional British independent school\u2014structured, academically rigorous, with emphasis on excellence. No IB option currently, so this is purely for families wanting British education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Facilities:<\/strong> Fantastic modern facilities including modern classrooms, science labs, sports facilities, and arts spaces. Being part of a large education group means access to resources and investment in infrastructure. The Cascais location provides adequate space though not as extensive as some campus-style schools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Community:<\/strong> Around 450 students with a mix of nationalities. Strong British contingent but increasingly international. The school emphasizes traditional values, academic achievement, and character development. Part of a global network which some families value for potential mobility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Transport:<\/strong> School bus services available in the Cascais area. The location in Cascais proper makes it convenient for local families but less practical for Lisbon commuters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What Parents Say:<\/strong> Families choosing King's College appreciate the traditional British approach, academic rigor as well as the brand new modern facilities. Being part of the Inspired group means strong governance and resources. Some note it feels more corporate than some independent schools. Academic standards are high and results are good. The Cascais location is perfect for local families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Location:<\/strong> Oeiras Oeiras International School offers the full IB continuum\u2014the only school in the area to offer IB from age 3 through 18. Located in Oeiras (between Lisbon and Cascais), it's accessible from both but ideal for neither. The school was purpose-built and opened in 2010 as an IB-focused institution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Curriculum:<\/strong> Pure IB throughout\u2014Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme. If you want consistency in IB philosophy and methodology from age 3 to 18, this is your option. The school is committed to the IB's international-mindedness and inquiry-based learning approach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Facilities:<\/strong> Modern, purpose-built campus with good facilities. Not as extensive as CAISL or TASIS, but everything needed for a solid IB education. The design reflects IB philosophy with collaborative learning spaces and outdoor areas for inquiry-based learning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Community:<\/strong> Smaller than the big schools\u2014around 400 students. This creates intimacy but limits peer group size, particularly in older years. The community is internationally minded (as you'd expect from IB focus) and families tend to be globally mobile professionals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Transport:<\/strong> School buses available but the network is less extensive than larger schools. The Oeiras location is practical for local families but requires commitment for those based in Cascais or central Lisbon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What Parents Say:<\/strong> Families choosing Oeiras tend to be committed to IB philosophy specifically. They appreciate the consistency of approach throughout their child's education. The smaller size means strong relationships between students, teachers, and families. Some note that subject choices in Diploma Programme can be limited by small cohort sizes. The IB focus is both the main selling point and a potential limitation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Location:<\/strong> Alfragide, Amadora (near Lisboa) PaRK International School is another full IB continuum school, located closer to Lisbon than most international schools. This makes it particularly attractive for Lisbon-based families who want IB education without the Cascais commute.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Curriculum:<\/strong> Complete IB pathway from PYP through MYP to DP. The school is dedicated to inquiry-based, student-centered learning throughout. Strong emphasis on international-mindedness and developing globally aware students.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Facilities:<\/strong> Modern campus with good facilities for IB learning. Not as extensive as some larger schools but well-designed for the IB approach with flexible learning spaces and technology integration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Community:<\/strong> Around 450 students from diverse international backgrounds. The Lisbon location attracts more Portuguese families alongside internationals, creating a different community balance than Cascais-area schools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Transport:<\/strong> School transport available. The Alfragide location is more accessible from Lisbon than most international schools, making it practical for city-based families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What Parents Say:<\/strong> The Lisbon-area location is a major advantage for city-based families. The IB programme is well-delivered and the community is warm. Some families appreciate the more Portuguese-international mix compared to heavily expatriate schools. Academic results are solid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Location:<\/strong> Alapraia, Cascais IPS (International Preparatory School\/Cascais International School) is located firmly in Cascais, making it the obvious choice for families living west of Estoril. It's smaller than the major schools but has a dedicated following.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Curriculum:<\/strong> British throughout\u2014Early Years Foundation Stage, National Curriculum, IGCSEs, and A-Levels. No IB option, so this is purely for families wanting British education. The approach is traditional British schooling adapted for an international context.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Facilities:<\/strong> More limited than larger schools due to size and location. The campus is functional but modest. Families don't choose IPS for stunning facilities\u2014they choose it for location, community, and approach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Community:<\/strong> Small\u2014around 250 students total. This is both defining characteristic and main appeal. Everyone knows everyone, teachers know each child individually, and the community is tight-knit. For some families this is ideal; for others it feels limiting, particularly for teenagers wanting broader peer groups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Transport:<\/strong> Limited bus service given the smaller school size. Most families live locally in Cascais or Estoril and handle transport themselves. This makes IPS impractical for Lisbon families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What Parents Say:<\/strong> The small size and personal attention are repeatedly cited as major positives. Children aren't lost in large year groups; teachers genuinely know each student. The location is perfect for Cascais families and completely impractical for everyone else. Some parents love the intimate community; others worry about limited social circles, particularly in sixth form.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Location:<\/strong> Quinta da Marinha, Cascais Kairos is a non-profit, intimate Cambridge International Catholic Montessori school where English is the main language and Portuguese the second. Its farm setting is integral to daily life and environmental education. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The Curriculum:<\/strong> Early Years and Primary follow authentic Montessori environments; Secondary (12\u201318) adds a structured Cambridge pathway (KS3, IGCSE, A-Levels\/AICE) with subjects from Global Perspectives and Design & Technology to Sciences and Languages, while retaining Montessori adolescent principles and farm work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Facilities:<\/strong> Rural campus with working farm\/fields and outdoor learning areas; dedicated Art and Music programmes\/spaces; chapel\/spiritual formation spaces for CGS; proximity to beaches\/forest used for place-based learning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Community:<\/strong> Small, international, and faith-friendly community (English-speaking, Catholic ethos, open to families \u201cof all races, nationalities and creeds\u201d).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Transport:<\/strong> The most convenient way to reach the school is by car. Nearby bus stops (Rua das Pereiras, Quinta da Marinha, S. Jorge de Oitavos) are a 5\u20139-minute walk, served by lines 5, 15 and 43; Cascais train station is about 3 km <\/p>\n\n\n\n What Parents Say:<\/strong> Community discussions consistently highlight the close-knit feel, farm-based learning, and the blend of Montessori with Catholic formation as major draws.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Location:<\/strong> Cascais Aprendizes (International Active Learning School) is a bilingual, student-centred school in central Cascais. The school blends Portuguese and Cambridge pathways with an \u201cactive learning\u201d ethos (project work, global perspectives, social-emotional learning). Recent school news and exam results are published frequently and reflect a growing secondary section (IGCSE\/A-Levels). <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n The Curriculum:<\/strong> Bilingual, project-based, child-centred approach: Portuguese National Curriculum in Early Years & Primary (enriched with daily English, outdoor\/arts and social-emotional learning), then Cambridge pathway in Secondary (IGCSEs and A-Levels\/AICE, with subjects like Global Perspectives and Design & Technology).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Community:<\/strong> Around 500 students of ~38 nationalities; predominantly Portuguese, Brazilian and British; mostly resident families. Classes ~18 students (max. 22).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Transport:<\/strong> Near the A5 Cascais exit and easily accessible by bus from Cascais. School buses are also available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What Parents Say:<\/strong> Parents consistently describe Aprendizes as welcoming and open-minded, praising how teachers adapt to each child\u2019s needs and pace; families of younger pupils highlight that children are genuinely happy in pre-school, feel highly stimulated through play and projects, and are encouraged without pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Location:<\/strong> Pa\u00e7o de Arcos (near Oeiras) The Lyc\u00e9e Fran\u00e7ais is the largest school in this guide, serving the French community and families wanting French-language education. Fees are significantly lower than other international schools due to French government subsidies, but it's fundamentally a French school, not an international school that happens to teach in French.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Curriculum:<\/strong> Follows France's national curriculum entirely, taught in French. There's a Portuguese stream and some English instruction, but proficiency in French is expected. The academic standards are high\u2014French education is rigorous\u2014but it's culturally French in approach and expectation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Curriculum:<\/strong> It is located next to Amoreiras (Av. Eng. Duarte Pacheco, 32) and has good access by public transport - metro (Yellow Line) and various Carris lines (e.g. 711, 723, 736), with easy connections to the Sintra and Cascais train lines; there is no school bus of its own, and public transport or private shuttles are common. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Facilities:<\/strong> The campus has 7 buildings with a primary school gymnasium, secondary school gymnasium, dance hall, libraries by cycle (Marmoth\u00e8que\/BCD\/CDI), on-site cafeteria (\u201cPt'ite Pause\u201d) and canteens, infirmary\/school health service, pre-school spaces (incl. motor skills room) and administrative areas\/meeting rooms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Community:<\/strong> The Lyc\u00e9e Fran\u00e7ais Charles Lepierre has a large and consolidated community in Lisbon, with around 2,000-2,100 students, ~45 nationalities and ~280 employees. The student body is mainly Portuguese and French\/Franco-Portuguese, but there are also several other nationalities; external summaries indicate ~49% Portuguese, ~43% French and ~8% other nationalities (indicative figures). <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n What Parents Say:<\/strong> French families and Francophiles appreciate the authentic French education at reasonable costs. The academic rigor is high and preparation for French universities is excellent. For non-French speakers, the immersion is intense and requires commitment. This isn't the choice for English-language international education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tuition fees are only part of the cost. Here are the real costs you should consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Fees increase with age, typically ranging from \u20ac7,000-\u20ac13,000 for primary years to \u20ac18,000-\u20ac27,000 for sixth form. The British schools tend toward the lower to middle range; American schools and some newer British schools toward the higher end. Multiply by number of children\u2014many schools offer sibling discounts (typically 5-10%), but these rarely offset the full cost of multiple children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Most schools charge non-refundable registration fees (\u20ac500-\u20ac2,000) when you apply, plus enrollment deposits (\u20ac2,000-\u20ac5,000) when you accept a place. The enrollment deposit usually applies to final term fees, but you need the cash upfront.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bus services cost \u20ac1,500-\u20ac2,500 per child annually. For families with multiple children living far from school, this adds significantly\u2014potentially \u20ac5,000+ per year. Some families drive, but the time commitment is substantial, particularly for schools requiring 30-45 minute commutes each way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n British schools require full uniform (\u20ac300-\u20ac600 per year). Sports equipment and art materials can add \u20ac500-\u20ac1,000 per pupil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n School lunches cost \u20ac800-\u20ac1,200 annually per child. Extra-curricular activities (sports teams, music lessons, after-school clubs) range from free to several hundred euros per term per activity. If your child does multiple activities, this adds up quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Local trips, international exchanges, and summer programmes can cost \u20ac500-\u20ac2,000 per trip. Older students often have more expensive options\u2014week-long geography trips, Model UN conferences abroad, sports tours. These are usually optional, but children understandably want to participate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For September entry (the main intake), apply in the preceding autumn\u2014October to January is ideal. Schools have rolling admissions and accept throughout the year if space allows, but popular year groups (particularly reception, year 7, and sixth form entry) fill quickly. If you're relocating mid-year, contact schools immediately\u2014spaces are limited but sometimes available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n\n\n\n Popular schools often have waiting lists for certain year groups. Don't assume you'll get your first choice immediately. Apply to multiple schools, rank your preferences privately, but be strategic about which offers you accept while waiting for others. Schools don't appreciate families accepting places they intend to reject if something better comes available\u2014it's a small community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you're based in Cascais, CAISL, TASIS, King's College, and IPS are most convenient, with St. Dominic's and St. Julian's manageable via school bus. Oeiras International and PaRK IS are feasible but require commitment. Lisbon-based schools like Redbridge are impractical for daily commuting. Most Cascais families choose between CAISL or TASIS (for American curriculum), St. Dominic's, St. Julian's, or King's College (for British with possible IB option), or IPS (for small, local British school). For more on choosing Cascais as your base, see our detailed<\/p>\n\n\n\n From Lisbon, St Julian's is the most convenient (direct train line). PaRK IS and Redbridge are ideal for those living in the centre. Schools in Sintra or Cascais require long journeys (45+ minutes).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Living in Oeiras, Carcavelos or Parede offers balance - almost all schools are less than 30 minutes away, except for the most distant ones. A good option for those who want flexibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A 30-minute journey means 5 hours in the car every week. With two children, that doubles. Choosing a school and home in aligned areas is half the battle for a balanced life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Students who need structure thrive in traditional environments; the creative and autonomous feel better in more flexible schools. The size of the school also has an influence: extroverts benefit from large communities; the more reserved prefer small classes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you plan to stay in Portugal for the long term, the curriculum is secondary. But if you plan to move again, choose the system compatible with your next destination (British, American or IB).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your social life will revolve around the school. Observe the type of families, the atmosphere at the gates, the conversations. Choose a community where you feel comfortable - this influences you more than you realise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Each school has an identity. Some are competitive and academic; others focus on well-being and balance. The key is to align family values with school culture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n No virtual visit is a substitute for a face-to-face visit. Observe the energy, the relationship between students and teachers, and the general atmosphere. Take your child - their reactions count.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The choice of school shapes your daily life - timetables, travelling, friendships and even where you live. The \u201cbest\u201d school is the one that fits into your family's life, not the one with the biggest name.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Adaptation takes time. It's normal to have ups and downs, especially for teenagers. Keep in close communication with your teachers - international schools are used to accompanying transitions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Many schools offer EAL (English as an Additional Language) support. This is essential to ensure academic success and integration. Encourage Portuguese too - it makes life easier outside the \u201cschool bubble\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Get involved. Go to events, join parents' groups, chat. Your friendships in Portugal will probably start at school. And to widen your network, consider joining the Living Local community<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The first choice isn't always the final one. Give it time, but if your child isn't doing well after a full school year, consider other options. The important thing is to understand why - it's not always the school, it could be the general adjustment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Choosing an international school in Cascais is one of the most important decisions when moving to Portugal. It affects not only your children's education, but the rhythm and well-being of your family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The region offers real variety - from British rigour to American spirit, from the IB model to the Montessori approach. This diversity is a blessing, but it requires careful analysis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Don't just choose by reputation. Choose for suitability: for your child, for your life, and for what you want to build in Portugal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At Living Local<\/a>, We help families understand the school landscape and choose the best place to live based on that decision. Our buyer's agency service<\/a> ensures that he finds a home and school that work together - and not in conflict.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Want to start planning your move?<\/strong> Book a free consultation<\/a> with us and discover where your family can thrive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Curriculum:<\/strong> British (IGCSE\/A-Levels) with IB Diploma option
Ages:<\/strong> 3-18
Students:<\/strong> ~1.100
Approximate Annual Fees:<\/strong> \u20ac8,000-\u20ac20,000 depending on age<\/p>\n\n\n\nSt Julian's School<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Curriculum:<\/strong> British (IGCSE\/A-Levels) and IB Diploma Programme
Ages:<\/strong> 3-18
Students:<\/strong> ~1.000
Approximate Annual Fees:<\/strong> \u20ac10,000-\u20ac22,000 depending on age<\/p>\n\n\n\nCAISL (Carlucci American International School of Lisbon)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Curriculum:<\/strong> American (High School Diploma with AP courses)
Ages:<\/strong> 3-18
Students:<\/strong> ~600
Approximate Annual Fees:<\/strong> \u20ac12.000-\u20ac25.000<\/p>\n\n\n\nTASIS Portugal (The American School in Portugal)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Curriculum:<\/strong> American (High School Diploma with AP courses) and IB Diploma option
Ages:<\/strong> 3-18
Students:<\/strong> ~550
Approximate Annual Fees:<\/strong> \u20ac13.000-\u20ac27.000<\/p>\n\n\n\nKing's College School, Cascais<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Curriculum:<\/strong> British (National Curriculum, IGCSE, A-Levels)
Ages:<\/strong> 3-18
Students:<\/strong> ~450
Approximate Annual Fees:<\/strong> \u20ac11.000-\u20ac22.000<\/p>\n\n\n\nOeiras International School<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Curriculum:<\/strong> IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP)
Ages:<\/strong> 3-18
Students:<\/strong> ~400
Approximate Annual Fees:<\/strong> \u20ac9.000-\u20ac19.000<\/p>\n\n\n\nPaRK International School (PaRK IS)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Curriculum:<\/strong> B Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP)
Ages:<\/strong> 3-18
Students:<\/strong> ~450
Approximate Annual Fees:<\/strong> \u20ac8.500-\u20ac18.000<\/p>\n\n\n\nCascais International School (IPS)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Curriculum:<\/strong> British (Early Years Foundation Stage, National Curriculum, IGCSE\/A-Levels)
Ages:<\/strong> 3-18
Students:<\/strong> ~250
Approximate Annual Fees:<\/strong> \u20ac8.500-\u20ac18.000<\/p>\n\n\n\nKairos Montessori International School<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Curriculum:<\/strong> Montessori pedagogy across all stages + Cambridge International (IGCSE\/A-Levels\/AICE) in Secondary; Catholic identity with Catechesis of the Good Shepherd; \u201ctechnological minimalism\u201d (very limited personal devices on campus).
Ages:<\/strong> 3-18
Students:<\/strong> ~150
Approximate Annual Fees:<\/strong> \u20ac10.500-\u20ac19.000<\/p>\n\n\n\nApprentices School<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Curriculum:<\/strong> Bilingual, active\/project-based; Portuguese National (early years) + Cambridge IGCSE & A-Levels (secondary)
Ages:<\/strong> 3-18
Students:<\/strong> ~500 (38 nationalities)
Approximate Annual Fees:<\/strong> ~\u20ac10,600\u2013\u20ac16,800 (2025\/26), depending on year group; food included<\/p>\n\n\n\nLyc\u00e9e Fran\u00e7ais Charles Lepierre<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Curriculum:<\/strong> French (Baccalaur\u00e9at)
Ages:<\/strong> 3-18
Students:<\/strong> ~2.700
Approximate Annual Fees:<\/strong> \u20ac3,000-\u20ac6,000 depending on age (subsidized by French government)<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Real Costs: Beyond Tuition Fees<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Annual Tuition<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Registration and Enrollment Fees<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
School Transport<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Uniforms and Equipment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Lunch and Extra-Curricular Activities<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
School Trips and Camps<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Application Process and Timelines<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
When to Apply<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Assessment Process \/ Requirements<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Wait Lists and Backup Plans<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Location and Logistics: How This Affects Daily Life<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Living in Cascais<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
And who lives in Lisbon or in that direction?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Between the Two Zones<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The question of travelling<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What Really Matters<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Your Child's Personality and Learning Style<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Continuity and Future Plans<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Community and Social Integration<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Culture and Values<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Making the Decision<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Set Your Priorities<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Visit the schools<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
See the bigger picture<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Integration: What to expect<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The First Quarter<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Language Questions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Building Community<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If the Choice Doesn't Work<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Final Thoughts: Choosing Your School Community<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Ready to Decide?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n