Bright International School vs Vale Verde International School
Bright International School and Vale Verde International School are both in Algarve. Both schools offer Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge A Levels programmes, and Vale Verde International School also offers Cambridge International AS Levels and Pearson Edexcel IGCSE. Published annual fees are €8,750 - 16,360 at Bright International School and €7,143 - 12,408 at Vale Verde International School, which puts Bright International School roughly 28% higher. Bright International School takes pupils from 3 to 19, and Vale Verde International School from 5 to 18.
Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels
Curriculum
Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, Pearson Edexcel IGCSE
Pupils
Pupils
140
Pupils
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Typical class size
Typical class size
18
Typical class size
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Instruction language
Instruction language
English
Instruction language
English, Portuguese
Opened
Opened
2024
Opened
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Bus service
Bus service
Yes
Bus service
Yes
Essentials
Essentials
Location
Location
Parque Industrial de Loulé, Zona Industrial B, Lote 14, 8100-272 Loulé, Algarve, Portugal. The campus sits in the Algarve region near Loulé and serves an international community.
Location
Estrada do Burgau, 8600-120 Luz-Lagos, Algarve, Portugal
Stages
Stages
Early Years (3–5 years); Primary (5–11 years); Lower Secondary (11–14 years); Upper Secondary (IGCSE) (14–16 years). Cambridge Advanced opens in September 2027.
Stages
Primary (Year 1–6) and Secondary (Year 7–13)
School type
School type
Day school offering the Cambridge International Pathway.
School type
International school with bilingual English–Portuguese programme; Cambridge curriculum; IGCSE and AS/A Levels
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
Over 30 nationalities are represented at Bright International School.
Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
Inclusive school with a Wellbeing Department consisting of psychologists and pastoral care; supports social, emotional and cognitive needs.
Additional learning support
Limited facilities and resources for students with special educational needs; SEN support available at additional charge after assessment
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
Portugal
Country affiliation
Portugal
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation
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School day structure
School day structure
Bright operates from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. Early Years run 9:00 am to 3:00/4:00 pm; Primary and Lower Secondary run 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
School day structure
School day starts at 9:00 for Primary (Year 1–6) and 9:00 for Secondary (Year 7–13); Primary ends at 15:30; Secondary ends at 15:45; after-school activities 15:45–16:30; bus service available
Bus service details
Bus service details
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Bus service details
Bus service from Portimão to school daily with stops along the way including Lagos; billed termly with annual commitment
Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
Application & Registration Fees
- Annual registration fee: EUR 1,000 (charged once on acceptance and invoiced annually).
Tuition fees (listed per term and per year group)
- Cambridge Early Years - Pre-Reception: EUR 2,650 per term / EUR 7,750 per year. - Reception: EUR 2,650 per term / EUR 7,750 per year.
- Cambridge Primary - Year 1: EUR 3,400 per term / EUR 9,900 per year. - Year 2: EUR 3,400 per term / EUR 9,900 per year. - Year 3: EUR 3,870 per term / EUR 11,150 per year. - Year 4: EUR 3,870 per term / EUR 11,150 per year. - Year 5: EUR 4,295 per term / EUR 12,565 per year. - Year 6: EUR 4,295 per term / EUR 12,565 per year.
- Cambridge Lower Secondary - Year 7: EUR 5,120 per term / EUR 14,980 per year. - Year 8: EUR 5,120 per term / EUR 14,980 per year. - Year 9: EUR 5,120 per term / EUR 14,980 per year.
- Cambridge Upper Secondary (IGCSE) - Year 10: EUR 5,250 per term / EUR 15,360 per year. - Year 11: EUR 5,250 per term / EUR 15,360 per year.
Billing schedule and payment terms
- Invoicing frequency: fees may be invoiced either termly or annually according to the parent's preference. - Standard term invoicing and due dates (example schedule shown): - Term 1 invoiced on 1 June; payment due by 1 July. - Term 2 invoiced on 2 November; payment due by 2 December. - Term 3 invoiced on 1 March; payment due by 1 April. - Annual registration fee invoiced in February with a stated due date in that month. - Cash payments are not accepted; all fees must be received net of bank charges. - Late-payment penalty: a 5% monthly compounded fine is charged on overdue amounts; legal recovery costs may be added and access to some services may be restricted for students with past-due debts.
Boarding fees
- Boarding is not listed among the school charges. The school operates as a day school with published school hours and no boarding fee schedule. No boarding fees apply.
Other mandatory and optional costs
- School meals: EUR 570 per term (school meals are mandatory for pupils and are invoiced alongside term fees). - School bus: EUR 600 per student per term (use of bus service is subject to a one-term commitment). - iPad (Years 1–6): EUR 645 (one-off charge where applicable). - Uniform welcome pack: EUR 270 (welcome pack charge). - Soprano flute (Years 1–6): EUR 10 (specified item charge). - Examination fees: IGCSE examination fee EUR 160 per exam. - After-school activities: charged per activity with a minimum one-term commitment; withdrawals mid-term do not entitle to refunds. - One-to-one Inclusion Team support: charged when required; fee determined case-by-case.
Refund information and notice of withdrawal
- Notice of withdrawal: parents/guardians must notify the school in writing at least one full term before the student's intended departure. Failure to provide proper notice will result in charges for the subsequent term. - Non-refundable items: the annual registration fee and any payments made to the school are non-refundable under any circumstance. If a student does not attend at the start of the school year, the annual registration fee and Term 1 fees are not refundable.
Fee payment options and bank details
- Payment methods accepted: bank transfer and direct debit (direct debit is offered/recommended); cash is not accepted. Parents are requested to indicate the student's name and number on transfers. - Bank example provided by the school (payments must be received net of charges): - Bank name: Millennium BCP; Beneficiary: EUPHEUS – International Educational Project, Lda; IBAN and BIC/SWIFT details are published for transfers.
Discounts and penalties
- Annual-payment discount: 3% discount on annual tuition fees for full-year payments made by the stated annual-discount deadline. - Sibling discount: 20% discount on tuition for the third and subsequent children. Discounts are void if fees are not paid according to the published payment schedule. - Late-payment penalty: 5% monthly compounded fine on overdue payments and possible legal recovery charges.
Fee details
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Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
The school uniform includes a white polo shirt with the Bright logo and a yellow collar and sleeves; a grey hoodie; a dark grey Bright-logo winter jacket; a black hat; a yellow and black sports T-shirt; a yellow and black sports jacket; and black track shorts or black track pants.
Uniform requirement
Short sleeve blue polo shirt with School badge; White or black plain socks; Black shorts or trousers (no sweatpants or leggings on its own); knee-length skirt (girls). Shoes must be all-black, sensible, protective and allow for the growth and healthy development of feet; high heels, flip-flops and backless/back-strapped shoes are not allowed. During inclement weather, a vest under or a black/dark coat may be worn over the uniform.
Food options
Food options
The school offers nutritious school meals daily, including a morning snack, an afternoon snack and a healthy lunch. Meals are supplied by Thomas Franks and include Meat, Fish, Vegetarian and Salad Bar options, with provisions for vegetarian/vegan and allergy-friendly choices.
Food options
Snacks and lunch are available for purchase each day, including vegetarian options. The menu is sent out on a Wednesday and pre-ordering for the following week is needed by Friday evening to prepare accordingly.
House system
House system
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House system
The house system at VVIS consists of four houses: Apollo, Poseidan, Vulcan, Zeus. All students and staff are assigned to one house; students from the same house are encouraged to work together across year groups in various activities throughout the school year. Staff House Leaders, Student Council and Student House Captains from the Sixth Form coordinate and support house events and initiatives.
Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
The school is part of the Sharing Education Group.
Governance and ownership
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Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
Bright follows the Cambridge Pathway, a comprehensive, flexible curriculum designed by Cambridge International Education to guide learners from Early Years to Advanced qualifications. It comprises five stages for ages 3 to 19, with each stage building on the previous one to prepare students for the next steps. Cambridge qualifications are globally recognised and valued by universities, employers and institutions worldwide. The Pathway offers structured progression, personalised learning, and an emphasis on enquiry-based learning, holistic development, and a strong assessment framework. Bright also commits to inclusive education, wellbeing and equal opportunities for all students in a safe, supportive environment.
Curriculum details
Cambridge Lower Secondary leading to IGCSE (Pearson/Cambridge); Cambridge Pathway from Year 1 through Year 13 leading to AS and A Levels; Cambridge Checkpoint assessments at the end of Year 6 and Year 9; Primary is bilingual (60/40 English/Portuguese) with core Literacy, Numeracy and Science taught in English.
Student teacher ratio
Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio
18 students per class (secondary)
Exam results
Exam results
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Exam results
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Higher education progression
Higher education progression
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Higher education progression
Advanced Levels offered (minimum of 3 subjects per subject area); Cambridge AS/A Levels are recognised worldwide as a means to enter university; staff provide guidance on applying to universities, personal statements, UCAS deadlines and subject options.
Gifted and talented
Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented
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Academic calendar
Academic calendar
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Academic calendar
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Wellbeing & support
Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning
Social & emotional learning
Bright integrates wellbeing across the Cambridge Curriculum to promote mental, physical and emotional health. The pastoral programme prioritises resilience, personal growth and life skills, building a strong sense of community and preparing students for a dynamic global future. Mental health is a cornerstone with dedicated resources and open conversations to help students manage stress and develop resilience. Emotional health is supported by guidance to identify and express emotions, build relationships and develop self-awareness, with safe spaces for emotional growth. The wellbeing framework is structured by the PERMAH model (Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Accomplishment and Health).
Social & emotional learning
Vale Verde International School develops students' social, physical and interpersonal skills and a sense of personal responsibility. The school provides a happy, stimulating learning environment where pupils are encouraged to be independent, cooperative, confident and reflective learners. The bilingual curriculum supports cross-cultural learning and communication in English and Portuguese. Core values such as honesty, respect, responsibility, tolerance, effort, and self-discipline guide behaviour and interaction within the school community. The approach encourages students to think critically and engage respectfully with diverse perspectives. The school aims to prepare learners for lifelong learning and to contribute positively to society.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
Inclusive Learning Support provides personalised assistance and strategies to meet diverse learning needs and to promote inclusive education.
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school recognises that students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) or medical conditions may have safeguarding issues that require extra consideration. SEND and SENCo terminology appear within the safeguarding framework, indicating formal recognition of SEND in student support. All staff are trained to adopt a child-focused approach and to be vigilant for signs that a student may need help. The policy describes a structured system to monitor students known to be at risk and to provide appropriate support. The school undertakes collaboration with external professionals and services to ensure timely access to specialist help when needed. The school seeks to give every pupil the opportunity to realise their potential by addressing SEN and medical needs within a supportive environment.
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
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English as an additional language
The school runs a bilingual curriculum with English and Portuguese. English Literacy, Numeracy and Science are taught in English throughout the primary curriculum. Bilingual teaching is divided 60/40 between English and Portuguese in Years 1 to 6. The Língua Portuguesa for foreign and native learners programme supports learners who are non-native or native Portuguese speakers. It is the only international school in the Algarve offering these language proportions. Portuguese instruction focuses on arts, culture and sports to support non-native speakers and help them prepare for Portuguese tuition.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing is a core focus, fostering resilience and a healthy mindset through resources and open conversations. An Educational Psychologist collaborates with teachers, families and other professionals to assess learning, emotional and developmental needs, and to develop tailored support plans that promote academic achievement and personal growth.
Mental wellbeing
Mental health and wellbeing are a core focus of VVIS and are addressed through safeguarding and a tailored PSHE curriculum. All staff are aware that mental health issues may indicate safeguarding concerns and are trained to respond appropriately. The school actively promotes the health, wellbeing and resilience of students and staff, including guidance on responsible social media use through a tailored PSHE programme. Early Help identifies and provides support to students as soon as a problem emerges, including prevention, identification and access to early specialist support. If concerns relate to self-harm, eating disorders or suicidal thoughts, they are brought to the senior management team and acted on promptly.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
Safeguarding is a top priority. The school maintains a safeguarding team with a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads (DDSLs), implementing strict protocols to keep students safe. The pastoral programme supports holistic growth through an enquiry-based approach and positive psychology, guided by the PERMAH framework.
Safeguarding
Key safeguarding contacts are the Primary Designated Safeguarding Lead Clarissa Conroy, the Secondary Designated Safeguarding Lead Brendan de Beer, and the Principal Ben Riley. Safeguarding covers protecting health, wellbeing and human rights, enabling children to live free from harm, and providing safe care. All staff have a duty to raise concerns and follow reporting procedures, including mandatory reporting when required. The curriculum includes PSHE to promote safety and wellbeing, and online safety education addresses content, contact, conduct and commerce risks. Pastoral care supports students, and the school collaborates with external agencies and families to safeguard pupils. Safeguarding is a shared responsibility across the school.
Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
Flexible learning spaces designed to meet individual needs. The spaces blend formal and informal seating with movement opportunities, quiet zones, and comfortable pods for focused work. Indoor learning spaces are complemented by integrated outdoor areas that support exploration, physical activity and connection with nature. The Cambridge Pathway forms the basis of the learning experience. New facilities are under development.
Facilities overview
Located in the peaceful Western Algarve, Vale Verde International School sits on Estrada do Burgau in Luz-Lagos, Portugal. The Primary School offers a bilingual curriculum with half the subjects taught in Portuguese and half in English, with core Literacy, Numeracy and Science taught in English. The Cambridge curriculum guides the Secondary School from Year 7 through Year 13, leading to Advanced Subsidiary and Advanced Levels (AS & AL). The school also hosts music education on site, with ABRSM practical and theory examinations available and additional evening and weekend lessons. Limited facilities for students with special educational needs.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
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Sports facilities
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Academic facilities
Academic facilities
Flexible, student-centered learning spaces support Cambridge curriculum delivery; indoor and outdoor environments are designed to enhance independent inquiry and collaboration.
Academic facilities
Vale Verde follows the Cambridge curriculum from Year 1 through Year 13, leading to Cambridge International Examinations and Edexcel/Pearson AS and A Levels. In Primary, it is bilingual with Portuguese and English, with core literacy, numeracy and science taught in English. Lower Secondary (Years 7-9) follow Cambridge subjects; Years 10-11 offer IGCSE, and Years 12-13 offer AS/A Levels. A wide range of subjects is offered at Advanced Level, including Business Studies/Economics, History/Geography, Computer Science, Mathematics, Biology/Physics/Chemistry/Marine Science, English, Portuguese and Psychology. Vale Verde is an ABRSM examination centre for practical and theory examinations and follows the Cambridge Checkpoint assessment pathway.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
Ballet; DJ lessons; Inventors; Karate; Musical Instruments; Playball; Robothink; Homework Club; PE Club; Ukulele Club.
Extra curricular facilities
After school activities run Monday through Thursday from 15:45 to 16:30. Clubs include Chess, Capoeira, Animation, Volleyball, Football, Arts & Crafts, and Portuguese and French. Additional evening and weekend music lessons are available. Vale Verde International School is an ABRSM examination centre for practical and theory examinations.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
Bright International School has been transformed into a hub of innovative education. Building on the Cambridge International Education curriculum, Bright is expanding to include Upper Secondary (IGCSE) and Advanced (A Levels). This transformation reflects a strong commitment to high-quality education and highlights the Bright community's collaboration among learners, teachers and families. Bright International School is operated by the Sharing Education Group.
History
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Community
Community
Bright International School hosts a diverse community with over 30 nationalities. Community life includes cultural and sports events, open learning activities and shared experiences that foster belonging and collective growth. There are testimonials from students and parents about their Bright experience. Families are invited to join the Bright community and participate in school life.
Community
The school has students from 27 nationalities. Diversity is key; every pupil is valued as a unique individual and encouraged to work as a team. It promotes honesty, respect, responsibility and integrity as core values. Its aims include celebrating the joy of learning, developing lifelong learning, and fostering inter-cultural awareness.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
Bright International School has a Parent-Teacher Association (PTA). The school publicly acknowledges the PTA for organizing events. Bright's Instagram posts show appreciation for PTA activities. The school communicates with parents in English, Portuguese and Spanish to support a multilingual community engaged with PTA activities. Bright International School is operated by the Sharing Education Group.
Parent teacher association
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Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
The Cambridge Pathway is a comprehensive, flexible educational programme designed by Cambridge International to guide learners through every stage of their academic journey from Early Years to Advanced qualifications. It comprises five key stages for learners aged 3 to 19. Bright integrates the Cambridge Pathway with inclusive teaching to tailor learning for every student. The Cambridge Pathway is globally recognised and offers structured progression, enquiry-based learning and a strong assessment framework, supporting students from Early Years through to Advanced qualifications, including Upper Secondary (IGCSE) and Cambridge Advanced opening in 2027.
Academic & intellectual
The Primary School offers a bilingual curriculum with half of the subjects taught in Portuguese and half in English, following the UK National Curriculum. Core subjects of Literacy, Numeracy and Science are taught in English throughout the year. The Secondary School follows the Cambridge Lower Secondary curriculum, with Year 7 to Year 11 and class sizes limited to eighteen students to enable individual attention. VVIS leads students along the Cambridge Pathway from Year 1 to Year 13, culminating in AS and A Level examinations, with a broad range of subjects and Cambridge Checkpoint assessments to monitor progress.
Arts & creative
Arts & creative
The After-School Activities Programme offers opportunities in arts, music, science and sports. Activities include Ballet, DJ Lessons, Inventors, Karate, Musical Instruments, Playball and Robothink, delivered on campus with published schedules and not included in tuition. A range of clubs such as Homework Club and Ukulele Club are available, with more activities planned for 2025/26.
Arts & creative
Music, Drama and Art and Design form part of the curriculum, with Music on the timetable up to Year 9 and opportunities for instrumental study in the evenings and weekends. The school is an ABRSM examination centre for practical and theory examinations, supporting students pursuing music qualifications. In Upper Secondary, Art and Design and other creative subjects are offered as part of the IGCSE/AS/A Level options.
Cultural & language
Cultural & language
Bright is a multicultural community with over 30 nationalities. Communication with parents is possible in English, Portuguese and Spanish. School communications with parents via emails, online platforms, parent-teacher meetings and events is conducted in English.
Cultural & language
Vale Verde Primary provides a bilingual curriculum with 60/40 English/Portuguese in Years 1 to 6, with core Literacy, Numeracy and Science taught in English. Portuguese instruction focuses on arts, culture and sports to support non-native speakers and prepare pupils for later Portuguese tuition. The Estudo do Meio programme and the Língua Portuguesa for foreign and native learners programme underpin bilingual teaching, making VVIS the Algarve's only international school offering these proportions.
Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
Student Voice empowers students to shape their education by fostering collaboration and leadership. The Prefect Group enables students to lead and participate in projects, with roles including a Head Prefect and a Literacy Lead. Lower Secondary pupils apply for these roles and are interviewed, and the school regularly seeks feedback from the student body on whole-school matters.
Social & hobbies
Leadership skills are developed as part of the curriculum and the values of International Education are promoted. Students cooperate with others and engage in social issues within the national and international community. Diversity is celebrated with 27 nationalities represented, and every pupil is valued as a unique individual within a caring school community. The curriculum encourages cross-curricular learning and teamwork.
Community & service
Community & service
The school runs regular social events for parents and the local community, and parental involvement is encouraged and appreciated. Annual events include performing arts occasions such as the Christmas Concert, Carnival and the school play, as well as the Christmas Bazaar. The wonderful parent group supports Open Days and marketing the school throughout the Algarve.
Community & service
Social responsibility is promoted as pupils cooperate with others and engage in social issues within the national and international community. Diversity is a central aspect of the community, with inclusion across backgrounds, races and religions. The school aims to develop a responsible community through care, encouragement and inspiration.
Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
Leadership opportunities are provided through the Prefect system, with Lower Secondary pupils applying and being interviewed for roles and a Head Prefect leading the group. There is a Literacy Lead among the prefect roles. The Student Voice initiative centers on giving students the platform to lead, participate in projects and contribute to school improvements.
Leadership & professional
Leadership skills are developed as part of the curriculum and the values of International Education are promoted. The Cambridge Pathway guides study from Year 1 to 13, culminating in AS and A Levels, with subject choices aligned to university aims. The school provides guidance on applying to universities, including personal statements, UCAS deadlines and subject options. Advanced Level subjects are offered based on demand to tailor study to strengths.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Wellbeing is integrated into school life and the Cambridge Curriculum, promoting mental, physical and emotional health. The wellbeing framework highlights mental, physical and emotional health as three pillars of student health. A pastoral programme prioritises resilience, personal growth and life skills, with on-site healthcare, inclusive learning support and safeguarding measures. An ESL Programme supports students in enhancing English proficiency.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
A healthy balance in life, including hygiene, nutrition and physical activity, is a core goal. Physical Education is a compulsory, timetabled subject for all pupils. The school fosters a caring, supportive environment that promotes wellbeing across the curriculum. Music and other after-hours activities further support students' physical and mental well-being.
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
English is the primary language of instruction and serves as the official language. The host country's language is valued and encouraged, and the school supports students' diverse mother tongues. An ESL programme is designed to support students in enhancing their English proficiency. The Cambridge Pathway guides learning through Early Years, Primary, Lower Secondary and Upper Secondary (IGCSE).
Language provision
Languages taught are English and Portuguese. English is the language of instruction for core subjects, while Portuguese is taught across the curriculum with emphasis on arts, culture and sports; other Portuguese-taught subjects include Cooking and Food, Physical Education, Theatre, Culture and Traditions, EVT, Arts, FPS/ER and Music. In Years 7–9, Portuguese is part of the Cambridge curriculum; in Years 10–11, Portuguese is offered as an optional subject, and Portuguese is included among Advanced Level subjects.
Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching
Pupils in Primary School follow a bilingual curriculum with half of their subjects in English and half in Portuguese, following the UK National Curriculum. Core subjects of Literacy, Numeracy and Science are taught in English throughout the academic year. Bilingual teaching is 60/40 between English and Portuguese in Years 1 to 6.
Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
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Awards
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Accreditations
Accreditations
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Accreditations
Cambridge Assessment International Examinations – Cambridge Lower Secondary curriculum and IGCSE qualifications (Pearson and Cambridge variants) administered by Cambridge Assessment International Examinations. Edexcel/Pearson – AS and A Levels are recognised worldwide for university entry. ABRSM – Vale Verde International School is an examination centre for ABRSM practical and theory examinations. AEEP – Member of AEEP (Associação de Estabelecimentos de Ensino Particular e Cooperativo). Cambridge Checkpoint Assessments – Checkpoint assessments are internationally recognised, externally set and marked, and used by Cambridge International schools worldwide.
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
The school uses an online five-step admissions process via OpenApply. 1. Send an Enquiry; the Admissions Team provides information through OpenApply. 2. Book a School Tour (60 minutes, in person or online). 3. Submit Final Application (application form on OpenApply and upload the most recent report cards). 4. Trial Day & Assessment (where possible, students spend a day with their age-group class). 5. Confirmation of Enrolment (enrolments are confirmed once payment for all invoiced fees is received). The school welcomes students from 3 to 14 years old at the time of admission. Classes are capped at 18 students, with teaching assistants in Early Years and Primary Pathway classrooms. The school day runs 8:30 am–5:00 pm, Early Years 9:00 am–3:00/4:00 pm, and Primary/Lower Secondary 9:00 am–4:00 pm. Uniforms are required. The school provides hot lunch prepared by a nutritionist, with three options (Mediterranean, diet, vegetarian) and a salad bar; stationery is provided; from Grade 7 laptops are required; bring a personal water bottle. Parents are involved and the Principal regularly meets with families. Students come from over 25 nationalities and the school is non-religious. Enrolment is handled through bright-is.openapply.com and you'll be redirected to the Enrolment Platform.
Admissions
Step 1: Opening an Application File. Submit an application form with the non-refundable application fee of €50 to initiate the process. An email confirms receipt of the forms, but receipt does not imply admission. A student's admission is provisional until the final step in the process has been concluded and the relevant fees have been paid. A place is guaranteed only once all steps in the admissions process are completed. Step 2: Placement Testing. Students complete the Cambridge Insight placement test to determine placement. English placement is required for students for whom English is not their mother tongue. Additional language lessons may be recommended at the parents' expense to cope with the curriculum. Subject-specific placement tests may be required for mathematics, foreign language and science, and a personal interview is required prior to commencement. Step 3: Completing the Application File. Complete the Application File by submitting the documents listed: copies of recent school records, health records and vaccination certificates, Language Background Form, any prior assessment reports, declaration of special needs (if applicable with SEN charge), a copy of the child's passport, a passport-size photo, the parent's tax card, a signed Financial Regulations, and the initial €500 non-refundable registration fee. Submit these forms to VVIS Admissions by mail or email. Documents must be submitted prior to admission. Step 4: Acceptance. After the Application File is complete, it is reviewed by the Head of the relevant division for final decision on acceptance and grade placement. VVIS admits on a space-available basis; if no space is available, the applicant may be placed on a waiting list. For previously wait-listed students, the Admissions Office will call as soon as a space becomes available and an acceptance letter will be emailed to welcome the family. A student will be admitted only after all admission policies are complied with, including vaccination records and the tax number.
Scholarships
Scholarships
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Scholarships
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Waitlist
Waitlist
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Waitlist
Admission is on a space-available basis; applications are not considered more than two years in advance of entry. If a class is full, the applicant's name may be placed on a waiting list. The Admissions Office will call as soon as a space becomes available and an acceptance letter will be emailed to welcome the family.