Aspire International School vs Colégio Santiago Internacional

	A Aspire International School Algarve, Portugal	C Colégio Santiago Internacional Algarve, Portugal
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year €7,055 - 13,995	Fees / year €5,615 - 8,378
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, EYFS (Early years foundation stage), Pearson Edexcel IGCSE	Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge A Levels
Pupils	Pupils —	Pupils 130
Typical class size	Typical class size 12	Typical class size 18
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English, Portuguese
Opened	Opened —	Opened 2012
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Located at Rua Manuel Teixeira Gomes, 8135-106 Almancil, Algarve, Portugal. Aspire International School Algarve sits between Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago in the Algarve. The campus serves an international community with programmes from Preschool to A level.	Location Praça Zacarias Guerreiro, nº29, Tavira, Faro 8800-391, Portugal
Stages	Stages Preschool ages 3 to 5; Primary ages 5 to 11; Secondary ages 11 to 14; GCSE/iGCSE ages 14 to 16; A level ages 16 to 18	Stages Primary school and Secondary school, with A-level courses
School type	School type Independent international school	School type Independent, coeducational, open-admission
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix More than 27 nationalities represented; about 130 students.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support —	Additional learning support —
Country affiliation	Country affiliation —	Country affiliation England (curriculum model)
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure Open at 8:30 am. Primary day runs from 8:45 to 4:30 pm with lunch 12:25–14:00; Secondary day runs from 8:50 to 4:30 pm with lunch 10:55–13:10; pickup for both is 3:50–4:30 pm.
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details Private taxi service with two providers: Nuno Taxi and Calea Taxi. Routes cover Tavira to Vila Real de Santo António, Ayamonte (Spain), and Faro.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application / Joining Fees - Joining (administration) fee: EUR 195 + IVA. - Non-refundable deposit to secure a place: EUR 600 per child (deducted from fees as EUR 200 per term or EUR 60 per month over 10 months / EUR 75 per month over 8 months). The deposit is non-refundable. Tuition fees by year group (amounts shown are annual, with termly and monthly instalment options) - Preschool (Ages 3–5): Annual EUR 7,055 — Termly EUR 2,422 — Monthly (10 months) EUR 748 — Monthly (8 months) EUR 748. - Key Stage 1 (Years 1–2): Annual EUR 8,230 — Termly EUR 2,826 — Monthly (10 months) EUR 872 — Monthly (8 months) EUR 872. - Key Stage 2 (Years 3–6): Annual EUR 9,950 — Termly EUR 3,416 — Monthly (10 months) EUR 1,055 — Monthly (8 months) EUR 1,055. - Key Stage 3 (Years 7–8): Annual EUR 12,500 — Termly EUR 4,292 — Monthly (10 months) EUR 1,325 — Monthly (8 months) EUR 1,325. - Key Stage 4 (Years 9–10): Annual EUR 13,995 — Termly EUR 4,805 — Monthly (10 months) EUR 1,483 — Monthly (8 months) EUR 1,483. - Key Stage 4 (Year 11): Annual EUR 13,995 — Termly EUR 4,805 — Monthly (10 months) EUR 1,854 — Monthly (8 months) EUR 1,854. - Key Stage 5 (Year 12): Annual EUR 14,995 — Termly EUR 5,148 — Monthly (10 months) EUR 1,589 — Monthly (8 months) EUR 1,589. - Key Stage 5 (Year 13): Annual EUR 14,995 — Termly EUR 5,148 — Monthly (10 months) EUR 1,987 — Monthly (8 months) EUR 1,987. Billing schedule and payment terms - Early-bird discount: 5% discount on the annual fee if paid in full before 31 March 2026. - Termly payment dates (three instalments for the academic year shown): 1st instalment due 1–10 September 2026; 2nd instalment due 2–10 January 2027; 3rd instalment due 3–10 April 2027. Termly payments are subject to 3% interest on the base price. - Monthly instalments: two offered schedules — 10 monthly instalments or 8 monthly instalments. Payments over 10 months are due by the 10th of each month starting 10 August and are subject to 6% interest on the base price. Payments over 8 months are due by the 10th of each month starting 10 August and are subject to 4% interest on the base price. All payment instalments must be paid by the stated due dates. - Late payment penalties: EUR 50 flat penalty plus 0.5% per month on overdue accounts. Sibling and other discounts - Sibling discount: first sibling receives a 5% discount; second and subsequent siblings receive a 10% discount. Boarding fees - No boarding fees are published in the schools published fee schedule; the fee schedule lists only day-school tuition and associated administration/deposit charges. Other costs and additional fees - The published fee schedule includes the joining administration fee and deposit described above and does not itemise charges for stationery, exam entries, excursions, or extra-curricular club fees within the main tuition table. Separate downloadable documents for uniform and lunch menus are provided as distinct items alongside the fee schedule. Parents should note that uniform and lunch arrangements are handled as separate items in the schools documentation. Refund information - The enrolment deposit (EUR 600 per child) is explicitly non-refundable. No other refund terms are detailed within the published fee schedule document. Fee payment options - The published fee schedule sets instalment options and dates but does not list specific payment methods (for example, bank transfer, direct debit or credit/debit card) within the fee schedule PDF. Payment method details are provided separately to families as part of the schools enrolment and invoicing process. Sanctions and administration - No re-enrolment fees are charged. Late-payment penalties and monthly interest on instalment plans apply as stated above. Sibling discounts apply as noted.	Fee details Application / Registration fees and security deposit - Annual registration (enrolment) fee: EUR 380 (charged each year; non‑refundable). - Security deposit (one‑off, refundable): EUR 700. The deposit is refundable provided the school receives the required term notice in writing; the school may retain all or part of the deposit if notice conditions are not met or there are outstanding debts. Tuition fees by year group (recurring annual tuition and per‑term equivalent) Note: the figures below are the school's published recurring annual fees for the current academic year and the simple per‑term equivalent (annual ÷ 3) shown for convenience. - Kindergarten 3 (age 5): annual tuition EUR 5,235 — termly equivalent EUR 1,745.00. - Grade 1: annual tuition EUR 5,235 — termly equivalent EUR 1,745.00. - Grade 2: annual tuition EUR 5,235 — termly equivalent EUR 1,745.00. - Grade 3: annual tuition EUR 5,235 — termly equivalent EUR 1,745.00. - Grade 4: annual tuition EUR 5,523 — termly equivalent EUR 1,841.00. - Grade 5: annual tuition EUR 5,523 — termly equivalent EUR 1,841.00. - Grade 6: annual tuition EUR 5,930 — termly equivalent EUR 1,976.67. - Grade 7: annual tuition EUR 5,930 — termly equivalent EUR 1,976.67. - Grade 8: annual tuition EUR 5,930 — termly equivalent EUR 1,976.67. - Grade 9: annual tuition EUR 6,730 — termly equivalent EUR 2,243.33. - Grade 10: annual tuition EUR 6,730 — termly equivalent EUR 2,243.33. - Grade 11: annual tuition EUR 7,998 — termly equivalent EUR 2,666.00. - Grade 12: annual tuition EUR 7,998 — termly equivalent EUR 2,666.00. First‑year total (example for new enrolment) - For a new Kindergarten 3 enrolment the school publishes: security deposit EUR 700 (refundable), annual registration EUR 380 (non‑refundable) and tuition for that entry year shown separately; the combined total for the first year (tuition + registration + deposit) for that example is EUR 5,935. Billing schedule and payment terms - Payment frequency options: monthly, termly or annual. Parents/guardians choose the payment frequency. - Monthly payments: the monthly instalment must be paid by the 5th day of the month to which it relates. - Termly payments: term fees are payable before the start of the relevant term (termly payment is an available option). Annual payment attracts a discount if paid by the published deadline. - Annual payment discount: a 3% discount is available for annual payments if paid by 30 August. - Late payments: payments received on or after the 6th of the month incur a late penalty (the school applies a late fee percentage and may recover outstanding amounts from the security deposit); continued non‑payment can lead to suspension of attendance until fees are brought up to date. Boarding / residential provision - There is no boarding provision listed for Colégio Santiago Internacional; the school operates as a day school for ages 5–18. Other compulsory or recurring costs (meals, transport, exams, extras, uniform, etc.) - Meals and canteen: meal provision (morning snack, lunch and afternoon snack) is offered as a separate, charged service. The school's fee documents and regulations treat food/canteen as an additional cost outside the recurring tuition line. Parents are charged separately for canteen. - Transport: school transport is charged separately. Transport costs are not included in the published recurring tuition and are billed in addition if the service is used. - External examination charges: public/external examination fees (for Edexcel/GCSE/IGCSE/AS/A‑Level) are charged in accordance with examination board rates; these are billed in addition as required. - Uniform: uniform is compulsory. Uniform items are ordered and purchased directly by parents from the school's supplier; the school does not publish uniform prices on the fees pages. Uniform costs are therefore payable separately to the supplier. - Extracurricular activities, study visits, art supplies and similar additional services are excluded from the core tuition and are charged separately. Refunds and deposit handling - General rule: payments for terms, services or other fees are non‑refundable. The security deposit is refundable only if the school receives the required term notice in writing in advance (a term's notice) and there are no outstanding debts; otherwise the school may retain the deposit (or part of it). The registration (enrolment) fee is non‑refundable. Fee payment options and instructions - Accepted payment methods listed by the school include: cash; monthly direct debit to the school's named bank accounts; and bank transfer to the school IBAN accounts. Payment confirmation should be sent to the school email address shown on invoices. The school lists specific IBAN accounts for transfers and direct debit (accounts at Caixa Geral de Depósitos, Crédito Agrícola and Santander). Sibling discounts and other reductions - Sibling discount: second child 5% off tuition; third and subsequent children 7% off tuition. Administrative notes (how fees are treated) - Books provided by the school are school property and must be returned in good condition at year end; replacement cost will be charged if books are not returned. School accident insurance is included within registration/enrolment services. External exam and resit fees are charged as required. (End of fees overview)
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement Uniform is compulsory at Colégio Santiago Internacional. The regular uniform includes a white polo shirt with the CSI logo and dark blue bottoms (skirt/trousers/skort for girls; trousers/shorts for boys) plus a dark blue pullover with the CSI logo and black or dark blue shoes. For sports, students wear a white T-shirt with the CSI logo, dark blue shorts and a dark blue tracksuit; jewellery is restricted, makeup and nail varnish are not allowed, and long hair must be tied; hoodies are forbidden. Uniform items are ordered by parents from the supplier and must be labeled.
Food options	Food options —	Food options The canteen serves meals based on healthy and sustainable gastronomy; salt is not used and fats are limited to olive oil. Fresh fruit is bought daily from Tavira market to prepare meals.
House system	House system The school uses a house system with inter-house events. An example is the Inter-House Cross Country.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is independent. It is led by School Director Ian Bailey.	Governance and ownership The school is independent. The Management Team consists of the Head Teacher, Ana Alves (The Investor), the Deputy Head Teacher responsible for Primary School, and the Assistant Deputy Head Teacher responsible for Secondary School. They set Internal Regulations, implement policies, approve the Annual Plan, manage facilities and staff, timetable, partnerships, and disciplinary matters.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details AIS Algarve follows the British National Curriculum across all year groups. Preschool uses the Early Years Foundation Stage with Pre-Nursery, Nursery and Reception, weekly Portuguese language exposure, and Jolly Phonics for early literacy. Primary education is based on the English National Curriculum, with a weekly Portuguese language focus, small class sizes, and specialist teachers in Art, ICT, PE, Performing Arts and Music, plus EAL support. The Secondary programme follows the British National Curriculum, guiding students from Key Stage 3 through IGCSEs and A levels, with core subjects including English, Maths, Science and Humanities; preparation for iGCSEs is provided toward Year 9. GCSE/IGCSE and A level offerings are described on dedicated pages; AIS GCSE uses Pearson Edexcel, and A levels are offered with Edexcel accreditation. The curriculum emphasizes PSHE and Mindfulness and includes a balanced programme of sports, arts, and clubs.	Curriculum details Two-language instruction in English and Portuguese, following the English National Curriculum modified to meet each student's needs. There is a strong emphasis on mathematics and science, embedded throughout the curriculum. The Arts and Sports component is given significant importance, with curricular and extracurricular activities planned inside and outside the school facilities. The commitment is to create an international culture and to captivate students' interest in other languages and cultures.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio The school has small class sizes and personalised attention, with teachers able to mentor each student.	Student teacher ratio 130 students and 17 teachers; maximum class size is 18; approximate student–teacher ratio is about 7.6:1.
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results Exam results are published in a PDF showing yearly IGCSE results and A-Level results from 2014 to 2024. The data indicate high performance, with 2020 showing 100% in the measured metrics. The school notes that results are above the average of UK schools.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression The school prepares students for higher education with university preparation support and careers guidance; it aims to help students gain entry to top universities worldwide through its IGCSE and A level pathways.	Higher education progression Graduates have gone on to universities including California State University, Long Beach; University of Central Florida, Wembley (UCFB); ATF Flying School in Spain; and universities in Canada, the Netherlands, Belgium, England and Portugal. The first student to complete A-Levels at CSI in 2013 was admitted to California State University, Long Beach.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Student wellbeing is central to AIS. Pastoral care is a core part of school life, with staff providing guidance and support to help students feel safe and valued. The school supports new students to settle in, helping them build friendships and feel comfortable in their learning environment.	Social & emotional learning Personal and social development is tracked through observation and ongoing dialogue with students and their parents or guardians. The mentor serves as the primary point of contact for educational or social concerns about each child. Regular updates to student information help monitor progress and well-being. The school emphasizes confidentiality regarding student records and sensitive information. Mindfulness and positive behaviour are integrated into daily routines to support emotional well-being and respectful interactions. The community emphasizes collaboration among teachers, students, and families to support each student's social and emotional growth.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) AIS supports students with a range of learning needs, with teachers working closely with families to identify appropriate strategies and provide tailored support; additional support can be provided to help students progress.	Special educational needs (SEN) —
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English is the main language of instruction; additional language support is available where needed, particularly in the early years. AIS offers instruction in English and Portuguese, with additional modern languages available. Speech and language therapy and EAL support are provided where needed.	English as an additional language English is the primary language of instruction while Portuguese is maintained at grade level proficiency for native speakers and taught as an additional language for non-native speakers. The ultimate instructional goal is to achieve proficiency in both languages. Language instruction is integrated with content, using strategies that support linguistically and cognitively diverse learners. The school aims to cultivate bilingual comprehension and communication to prepare students for global opportunities.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Student wellbeing is central; pastoral care supports students' mental, social, and emotional development, with staff available to speak with students about concerns and to promote a safe, respectful environment.	Mental wellbeing Mindfulness is scheduled into the school day for both primary and secondary students: primary mindfulness from 3:30 PM to 3:50 PM and secondary mindfulness from 3:50 PM to 4:10 PM. Personal and social development informs wellbeing through ongoing observation and dialogue with students and families. The mentor is the first point of contact for wellbeing concerns, and staff maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Pastoral care and wellbeing policies promote a safe environment, with clear procedures to address concerns about behaviour or bullying; bullying is not accepted and is addressed promptly.	Safeguarding Zero-tolerance bullying is enforced at Colégio Santiago Internacional. The mentor is the first point of contact for educational or social concerns about a child. Entrance and movement are controlled: visitors must be identified at the main office and some areas are restricted. The school collects information from parents/guardians regarding participation in study visits and activities. Parents/guardians have the right to access information and expect confidentiality from staff regarding private family matters.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Aspire International School Algarve has spacious outdoor areas and purpose-built classrooms. Modern facilities support every stage of a student's journey. AIS emphasises small class sizes, with a maximum of 12 students per class to enable individualized attention. The campus is located between Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago in the Algarve, Portugal.	Facilities overview Colégio Santiago Internacional is located in the center of Tavira, in a 15th-century building considered a true historical landmark. The school has 16 classrooms, including a science laboratory, a music studio, a radio station, a computer room, an art room, and a canteen. The maximum class size is 18 students. The canteen offers healthy, sustainable gastronomy with olive oil and fresh fruit bought daily from Tavira's market. Teaching is bilingual in English and Portuguese, following the English National Curriculum.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The school has a swimming pool used for summer camp activities. The curriculum includes Physical Education as a specialist subject.	Sports facilities Extracurricular Tennis Club is offered. The Arts and Sports component is given great importance, with curricular and extra-curricular activities planned both in and outside CSI facilities. Physical Education is a subject in the curriculum, including options at A level. On-site spaces include a science laboratory, a music studio, a radio station, a computer room, an art room, and a canteen, supporting a broad educational program that includes sports.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The school follows a broad British curriculum, with iGCSEs and A levels supported by Pearson Edexcel accreditation. Aspire provides specialist instruction in Art, ICT, Physical Education, Performing Arts, and Music. Portuguese language and culture are integrated, with one day per week dedicated to Portuguese.	Academic facilities The school follows the National Curriculum of England with bilingual instruction in English and Portuguese. Teaching emphasizes mathematics and science within the curriculum. Facilities include 16 classrooms, a science laboratory, a music studio, a radio station, a computer room, an art room, and a canteen. A-level is offered in Years 12 and 13 with subjects such as English Language and Literature, Mathematics, Portuguese, Spanish, Sociology, Psychology, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Business, Physical Education, and Art.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Aspire offers a wide range of clubs and enrichment activities. There is an active PTFA (Parent, Teacher & Friends Association) that supports the school community.	Extra curricular facilities Extracurricular activities include Tennis Club, Ballet, Portuguese Arts & Crafts, Egyptian Arabic Classes, and Homework Club. These activities help pupils develop talents they can use later in life and foster leadership skills. They also expand social circles and promote better time management. The program supports personal development alongside academics and provides opportunities for collaboration among students.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History —	History CSI Tavira opened its doors in September 2012. There are more than 27 nationalities and about 130 students. It is an independent, coeducational, open-admission school with bilingual teaching in English and Portuguese, following the National Curriculum of England. It is located in central Tavira in a 15th-century building considered a historic landmark, with 16 classrooms and facilities including a science laboratory, a music studio, a radio station, a computer room and a canteen. Class sizes are capped at 18, and the staff includes 17 teachers, 2 classroom assistants, and 6 support staff. Student results are above the UK average; the first A-Level student in 2013 was admitted to the California State University, Long Beach, and graduates have gone on to universities in Canada, the Netherlands, Belgium, England and Portugal.
Community	Community The Aspire International School Algarve hosts a range of community events that engage families and the local Algarve community. Recent events include a Wonderful Community Day with a family market (June 15, 2025), a Preloved Family Market (June 14, 2025), a World Children's Day community walk in Almancil (June 1, 2025), a Coastal Clean-Up in Vale do Lobo (May 20, 2025), and an Aspire Beach Clean-Up (May 20, 2025). Other activities include AIS Spring Fair 2025 – Full Schedule (March 28, 2025) and Spring Fair 2025 – Let's Make It Bloom! (March 21, 2025), and a Multicultural Fair (A Reflection on Our Incredible Multicultural Fair, November 8, 2024).	Community CSI Tavira has a diverse international community with more than 27 nationalities and around 130 students. The school is independent, coeducational, open-admission, and bilingual in English and Portuguese, following the National Curriculum of England. The school day runs from 8:30 to about 3:50 with 8:45 registration, breaks, and after-school activities; a canteen provides snacks and students participate in extracurricular activities. Life at CSI includes a School Calendar and a Newsletter for families, and the campus hosts projects and visits as part of student life. The school is located at Praça Zacarias Guerreiro 29, Tavira 8800-391, Portugal.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The school has an active PTFA (Parent, Teacher & Friends Association) and the PTFA fosters meaningful connections between staff, students, and families.	Parent teacher association —
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Aspire International School provides lunchtime and after-school clubs to extend learning beyond the classroom. These enrichment activities cover a broad range of interests, encouraging independent thinking, collaboration, and curiosity across academic disciplines. The timetable balances core subjects with clubs to help pupils pursue strengths and develop new skills. PSHE and Mindfulness are prioritized to support pupils' self-esteem, confidence, and emotional intelligence as part of holistic development.	Academic & intellectual Extracurricular activities are an important part of pupils' lives, developing talents that can be used later in life and leadership skills for participation in the Global Community. They help students strengthen their minds and broaden their social circle. They also promote better time management. Homework Club supports study skills and organization.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Art, Music, Drama and Sport are included in the timetable, with a strong emphasis on Expressive Arts. Expressive Arts & Design is explicitly highlighted in the Early Years as music, dance, role-play, and hands-on creativity. The timetable also provides opportunities for Arts with lunchtime and after-school clubs, and Dance/Expressive Arts showcases that highlight student creativity.	Arts & creative Ballet and Portuguese Arts & Crafts are offered. These activities promote creative expression and performance. They help students develop discipline and collaborative skills. They contribute to personal growth beyond classroom learning.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Portuguese Language & Culture is a core focus under the Portuguese Push initiative, offering immersive language learning from preschool through A Level. Primary teachers are fluent in Portuguese, and KS3 features equal Portuguese and English instruction; there is an after-school Portuguese club for extra support. Cultural immersion includes celebrating Portuguese holidays and traditions and project work around Algarve landmarks, history, and artists, with strong community links including language and cultural exchanges and local partnerships.	Cultural & language Egyptian Arabic Classes are offered. They provide language learning and cultural exposure. These classes broaden linguistic abilities and cultural awareness. They support intercultural understanding among students.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies The school offers a broad range of clubs and enrichment activities, including sports and arts. Inter-House Cross Country fosters teamwork and school spirit. Students can take on leadership roles such as Head Girl, prefects, Sports Captain, and House Captain, developing responsibility, communication, and initiative.	Social & hobbies Tenis Club is offered. Homework Club is available to support study and social engagement. These activities help students socialise and pursue interests outside the classroom. They expand social networks and provide extracurricular leisure opportunities.
Community & service	Community & service The school engages with the local community through environmental and charitable initiatives. Portuguese language and culture activities include beach clean initiatives, and there are tree-planting projects in Almancil; Spring Fair events support Mudaki and local partners, with opportunities for student involvement in music, dance, and community service.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Leadership opportunities are available across the student body, including serving as Head Girl and prefects, as well as roles such as Sports Captain or House Captain that empower students to lead peers and plan activities.	Leadership & professional Extracurricular activities develop talents that students can use later in life and leadership skills. They enable students to participate in the Global Community. Participation supports applying these skills beyond school. The program focuses on developing leadership and professional capabilities.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The school offers a holistic program including sport and physical education, PSHE and Mindfulness, and a broad range of after-school clubs. Inter-House Cross Country and other sports promote fitness and teamwork, while Dance/Expressive Arts showcases support creativity and wellbeing.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Tennis Club and Ballet are among the physical activities available. These activities promote physical fitness and wellbeing. They help students build routines and resilience. Participation broadens social circles.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Preschool, Primary and Secondary follow the English National Curriculum. One day per week is devoted to the Portuguese language in Primary. In Secondary, core subjects include English, Maths, Science, Humanities, Portuguese, ICT and Modern Foreign Languages. Specialist English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided for students who are new to English.	Language provision English is the primary language of instruction; Portuguese is maintained at grade-level proficiency for native speakers and taught as an additional language for non-native speakers. The aim is to achieve proficiency in both languages. The bilingual approach fosters cultural and linguistic diversity and prepares students for global opportunities.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching English is the primary language of instruction, while Portuguese is maintained at grade-level proficiency for native speakers and taught as an additional language for non-native speakers. The ultimate instructional goal is to achieve appropriate levels of proficiency in the two languages, taking into account the factors that affect language acquisition and development. The bilingual approach promotes an appreciation of cultural and linguistic diversity, and CSi students become international and independent thinkers and communicators. CSi also values bi/multilingualism among its students for the educational and professional opportunities it may open up for them in a global community.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations Pearson Edexcel accreditation — Aspire International School Algarve is accredited to deliver the Pearson Edexcel British Curriculum, including iGCSEs and A levels, with globally recognised qualifications.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Families can begin the admissions process by getting in touch with the AIS admissions team. They answer initial questions and guide you through the next steps, including arranging a visit to the school. 2. You can arrange a visit through Schedule a Tour. AIS also offers up to three free trial days for students prior to enrolment. 3. Initially, AIS asks for basic information about your child's age, previous schooling, and any specific learning needs; the admissions team will guide you through the rest of the process step by step. 4. AIS accepts children from Preschool through to Secondary and Sixth Form. English is the main language of instruction, with additional language support available where needed. The school is non-selective and does not conduct assessments before enrolment; if obstacles to learning exist, please notify so appropriate support can be provided.	Admissions 1. Submit enrollment documents. Admissions follow established criteria, and siblings have priority in enrolment. Upon registration, the office provides the following documents: Enrolment Form, Fees and Services, Use of the Uniform Policy, Medical Questionnaire, and School Calendar 2024/2025. Indicate the Expected Starting date and whether transport is needed on the form; transport availability is subject to confirmation, and the pickup point will be arranged with the service provider. 2. Evaluation and interview. Enrollment is subject to an evaluation process; the parents/guardians and the student will be invited for an interview with the Management Team if they have not yet completed one. The interview helps assess readiness and mutual expectations between family and school. A admission decision follows the evaluation. 3. Secure the place and payment. If admitted, the place is secured by paying the Enrollment Fee and a refundable Deposit before monthly/termly/yearly fee payments begin. The school offers 1× annual, 3× per term, or 11× monthly payment options. 4. Fees and inclusions. The Annual Registration fee is 395.00€ and the Security Deposit is 700.00€ (refundable). Meals and Transport are additional: Meals Year 1–9 are 130€; Years 10–13 are 160€. Transport is 180€. Discounts apply: 3% discount for annual payment; 5% discount for the second child; 7% discount for the third and subsequent children. The Annual Registration fee includes School Insurance, Textbooks (CSI's property for student use), Exercise books, Materials for Arts initiation, Library and internet access, and Lockers. 5. Start date, transport arrangements, and calendar. Indicate the Expected Starting date on the Enrollment Form. If transport is needed, indicate this on the form; transport arrangements are subject to confirmation and pickup points are arranged with the service provider. The School Calendar 2024/2025 is provided with registration documents.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
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