Carlucci American International School of Lisbon vs King's College School Cascais

	C Carlucci American International School of Lisbon Lisbon, Portugal	K King's College School Cascais Lisbon, Portugal
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year €12,128 - 23,532	Fees / year €11,754 - 21,750
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 1 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum, IB (DP)	Curriculum Bespoke Curriculum, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, IB (DP), Cambridge A Levels
Pupils	Pupils 739	Pupils 720
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size 18
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English, Portuguese
Opened	Opened 1956	Opened 2025
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Rua António dos Reis 95, Linhó, Sintra 2710-301, Portugal. Linhó is in the Sintra municipality near Lisbon. CAISL operates an extensive bus service serving Cascais and Lisbon, with routes designed around major metro and train corridors; the fleet includes large 50-seat buses and smaller vans, and bus service carries an additional fee.	Location King's College School, Cascais is located in Cascais, Portugal, in the Lisbon area. The school operates on two campus sites: Early Learning School & Primary School (up to Year 2) at Rua Cesário Verde, 395, Cascais 2750-657, and Primary School (from Year 3) & Senior School at R. Doctor Manuel Antonio Costa Matos, 164, Cascais 2750-290. The new campus was inaugurated in September 2025 and sits on a 40,000 sqm site, with boarding facilities for up to 50 students aged 13–18.
Stages	Stages EC3 through High School	Stages Early Years Foundation Stage (Age 1–4); Cambridge International Curriculum through Year 11 (Age 5–16); International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for Years 12–13 (Age 17–18). Enrolling Now: Early Years Foundation Stage (Age 1) – Year 12 (Age 17).
School type	School type Non-profit, non-denominational, college-preparatory day school offering an American program (EC3–12) and the IB Diploma.	School type Private international school with boarding facilities (Boarding House for up to 50 students aged 13–18).
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Learning Support; English as an Additional Language (EAL); Foundations of English Language (FoE); Counseling; Enrichment/Extension programs; Educational/Health Plans as needed.	Additional learning support Tracking of student progress with interventions to support academic and personal development; wellbeing and pastoral support are part of the school approach.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation United States (CAISL is supported by the U.S. Office of Overseas Schools and offers an American curriculum).	Country affiliation Portugal
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Non-denominational	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure A typical school day starts at 8:20 and finishes at 3:45.	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details CAISL offers an extensive bus service serving Cascais and Lisbon, with routes designed around major metro and train corridors. The fleet includes large 50-seat buses and smaller vans; buses pick up students at home when possible. The service carries an additional fee.	Bus service details —
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details One‑time fees (charged on application/enrolment) - Application fee: EUR 100. - Registration fee (one‑time, mandatory, non‑refundable): EUR 600 per child. - Building fee (mandatory, non‑refundable while payable): EUR 1,953 per year; payable annually for the first five years a student attends (begins in Grade 1 unless payment is requested earlier in writing). Once payment begins the amount is fixed for the five years it is due. Tuition fees (Quarterly or Annual options) - Early Childhood (EC3 & EC4) and Kindergarten: Quarterly EUR 3,032; Annual EUR 12,128. (These Early Childhood / Kindergarten figures include lunch.) - Grades 1–2: Quarterly EUR 3,515; Annual EUR 14,060. - Grades 3–5: Quarterly EUR 3,908; Annual EUR 15,632. - Grades 6–8: Quarterly EUR 4,439; Annual EUR 17,756. - Grades 9–12: Quarterly EUR 5,883; Annual EUR 23,532. Optional and ancillary fees (Quarterly or Annual options where shown) - Lunch (Grades 1–12): Quarterly EUR 303; Annual EUR 1,212. Lunch for Early Childhood and Kindergarten is included in tuition. Lunch fees, if purchased, are billed with tuition invoices and cancellations must be made in writing and become effective the following quarter. - Transportation (per route): One‑way Quarterly EUR 454; One‑way Annual EUR 1,816. Round trip Quarterly EUR 908; Round trip Annual EUR 3,632. Occasional ridership charged at EUR 17 one way. Transport is charged per route and cancellations or route changes require advance notice; cancellations become effective the following quarter. - After‑Hours Care / After‑School Childcare (Grades EC3/4–5) — Quarterly / Annual options: - 1 day/week: Quarterly EUR 85; Annual EUR 340. - 2 days/week: Quarterly EUR 156; Annual EUR 624. - 3 days/week: Quarterly EUR 217; Annual EUR 868. - 4 days/week: Quarterly EUR 264; Annual EUR 1,056. - 5 days/week: Quarterly EUR 300; Annual EUR 1,200. Occasional use (drop‑in) = EUR 30 per day. Cancellations must be made in writing and take effect the following quarter. - Required instructional books and sports uniforms for team sports are included in tuition; some optional school store purchases, specific musical instruments beyond those provided, and optional extracurricular activity fees may incur additional charges billed separately. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition may be paid quarterly or annually. Tuition is invoiced as follows: - For new students: the 1st quarter (or the quarter in which the student enters) is invoiced at the time of initial registration; subsequent quarters are invoiced approximately one month before the due date. - For returning students: re‑registration and initial payment deadlines are set in the re‑registration schedule (example dates in the schedule show re‑registration forms and a June payment deadline for the 1st quarter/annual option). Subsequent quarter due dates are published on the annual schedule. - Specific quarter due dates shown in the published schedule include (examples for the year shown): 2nd Quarter due November 6; 3rd Quarter due January 29; 4th Quarter due April 23. Failure to pay the 1st quarter by the deadline cancels the reserved place and invoiced amounts remain due. Individual payment plans may be arranged with the Accounts Manager. - Discounts: 3% reduction on tuition paid in full by the published early‑payment deadline (example: on or before June 15 in the schedule) and 3% reduction on the building fee if paid with the annual tuition by that date. Sibling discounts apply: 15% reduction on Tuition & Building Fee for a third concurrently enrolled child, and 25% reduction for a fourth and subsequent concurrently enrolled child (applied to the youngest children). Early payment discounts are not refundable. Refunds, cancellations, early withdrawal and related policies - The First Quarter fees (Tuition and Building Fee, if applicable) of attendance are owed as a condition of registering or re‑registering and are not refundable under any circumstances. Failure to pay the 1st quarter by the due date results in loss of the child's place while the invoiced amounts remain due. - Late admission (entry during a quarter): the fee to reserve the place is the full quarter's tuition plus the Registration Fee and the full year's Building Fee if applicable. - Early withdrawal: written notification of intent to withdraw must be given by the published deadlines approximately one month before the next quarter's payment date; failure to provide required written notice results in the full next quarter's fees being due. Any attendance during a quarter results in that full quarter's fees being due. Example deadlines from the schedule are Oct 2 (for 2nd quarter), Dec 18 (for 3rd quarter), and Mar 25 (for 4th quarter). - Refunds for early payments (including discounted annual payments) are not provided; early‑payment discounts will not be refunded under any circumstances. Payment method and billing contact information - Payments are requested in Euros by bank transfer to the school's bank. Bank details published for payments include: Bank: Caixa Geral de Depósitos (CGD); IBAN: PT50 0035 0786 0006 6142 5304 8; NIB: 0035 0786 0006 6142 5304 8; SWIFT CODE: CGDIPTPL. - Individual payment plans and questions about invoicing, late payment, or discounts are handled by the Accounts/Business Office; account contact details are provided with the fee schedule and billing information. Boarding - Boarding is not applicable; no boarding fees are listed. Notes on inclusions and obligations - The published tuition amounts indicate items included in tuition such as technology and online learning resources, Portuguese and English language support, a personal laptop beginning in Grade 1, many extracurricular activities, required instructional books and sports uniforms for team sports, art supplies and most musical instruments. Additional optional items and services are billed separately per the schedule.	Fee details Application / Registration & Enrolment Fees - Registration (first-time applicants, per family): EUR 250. - Enrolment (paid at acceptance): Early Years–Year 6: EUR 2,000; Year 7–Year 11: EUR 5,000; Boarding enrolment (where applicable): EUR 5,000. Enrolment fees are non-refundable and include annual student insurance where indicated. - Re‑enrolment fee (charged annually in April to confirm place): EUR 580 (non‑refundable). Tuition fees by year group (annual and termly) - Early Years 1 – Early Years 4: Annual EUR 11,754; Termly (x3) EUR 3,918. - Years 1 – 2: Annual EUR 15,576; Termly (x3) EUR 5,192. - Years 3 – 5: Annual EUR 17,502; Termly (x3) EUR 5,834. - Years 6 – 9: Annual EUR 18,300; Termly (x3) EUR 6,100. - Years 10 – 11: Annual EUR 21,750; Termly (x3) EUR 7,250. (IGCSE exam entry fees are additional per subject as noted below.) Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoicing options: School fees are invoiced either annually (September) or in three terms (August, December and April) per academic year; exceptions apply for boarding students. Invoices are issued by the 5th business day of the month in which they fall due (September invoices may be delayed). Specified charges are invoiced separately by the 10th business day of the following month. - Deposit / timing at enrolment: 50% of the Tuition and Boarding fees must be paid at the time of enrolment; the remaining 50% is due by 1 September. - Overdue invoices: Overdue amounts incur interest of 5% over the total amount due. - Sibling discount: 10% tuition discount for the third child; 25% for the fourth child (and onwards) applied to the youngest children. Boarding fees and terms (where applicable) - Full boarding (annual): EUR 23,965 (this is additional to tuition). - Weekly boarding (annual): EUR 19,950 (this is additional to tuition). - Mandatory health insurance for boarding students (annual): EUR 1,000; the school arranges a policy and all boarding students must have valid health insurance. Boarding fees cover accommodation (shared double room with private WC), cleaning, laundry, meals, Wi‑Fi, guided after‑school study and weekend activities as specified, but exclude tuition, uniforms, extracurricular activities, non‑educational residential trips and health insurance where noted. Mandatory charges and other regular fees - EdTech VR (virtual reality platform, Y7–Y11): EUR 50 (one‑time October charge). - EdTech AI (personalised study support, Y3–Y11): EUR 50 (one‑time October charge). - Mobile Device Management (MDM, Y3–Y6): EUR 20 (invoiced). - IGCSE exam entry fees (Y11): EUR 160 per subject (one‑time charge in April). - Transport (KCS Coastal Route): morning & afternoon EUR 810 (termly — Nov, Jan, Apr); one way (morning or afternoon) EUR 405 (termly). - Supervision period (17:00–18:00): EUR 100 (monthly) where applicable. - Extracurricular activities: invoiced termly (Nov, Jan, Apr); fees vary by activity (catalogue). Residential trips: charged separately, on a case‑by‑case basis. - English language support (EAL) and Special Educational Needs support (SEN): EUR 35/hour (when applicable). - Miscellaneous: student replacement card EUR 15; document translation EUR 0.10/word; Yondr pouch replacement EUR 20. - iPad purchase option: Apple iPad Air 11" Wi‑Fi 128GB (with keyboard cover, pencil and 1 year insurance) EUR 1,131 (or a split option EUR 377 as referenced); iPad rental (model subject to availability) EUR 105 (termly). Refund information - Registration, enrolment and re‑enrolment fees are identified as non‑refundable in the fee schedule (re‑enrolment is charged in April). There is no separate tuition‑refund clause detailed in the schedule beyond the stated non‑refundable items and the terms for extracurricular cancellations (full term charged if a student withdraws mid‑term). Accepted fee payment methods - Payment options listed: ATM reference (as shown on the invoice), direct debit, education tickets and bank transfer. Direct debit collections are debited by the 12th of each month; if a direct debit fails the payment will be requested by ATM reference or bank transfer. (Fees and terms above correspond to the published Fees schedule for the 2025/26 academic year.)
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Not offered.	Boarding arrangements The boarding residence is on the campus with 24/7 supervision and on-site staff. Meals are prepared in-house for boarders, with a catering partner using fresh ingredients; full-time boarders have lunch and dinner on school days and weekends, while weekly boarders have dinner on all school nights. Laundry and EAL support are provided.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement There is no school uniform.	Uniform requirement The school has a uniform consisting of three variations: Daily Uniform, Official Uniform, and Sports Uniform.
Food options	Food options CAISL is served by an on‑campus kitchen with a catering partner, Thomas Franks, and offers three daily lunch options: a main dish, an international dish, and a vegetarian option (the main dish alternates between meat and fish). Lunch is included for Early Childhood and Kindergarten; from Grade 1, lunch is optional with an additional fee. A snack bar provides light meals and beverages.	Food options Healthy balanced meals using natural ingredients; daily lunch is provided for all students; morning and afternoon snacks are included up to Year 6; special diets can be accommodated on request.
House system	House system —	House system There is a house system consisting of four houses, each with a house colour, name and identity.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership CAISL is governed by Fundação Escola Americana de Lisboa (FEAL), a not‑for‑profit foundation under Portuguese law.	Governance and ownership Owned and operated by Inspired, a global group of premium schools (Inspired is a for-profit group).
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details CAISL teaches an American curricular program from EC3 through High School under a permanent license from the Portuguese Ministry of Education, including permission to award the American High School Diploma and the International Baccalaureate Diploma, both recognized worldwide. The program follows U.S. standards: English Language Arts and Math align with the Common Core, Science with the Next Generation Science Standards, and Social Studies with the C3 Framework. Portuguese is taught to all students from Grade 1 through Grade 9, with a Native/Fluent Speakers track aligned to the Ministry curriculum and Portuguese as a Foreign Language designed for non-Portuguese speakers. CAISL follows American Education Reaches Out (AERO) resources to support curriculum development and uses frameworks across K–12 for English, Math, Science, Social Studies, Fine Arts, Information Technology, and Portuguese. Curriculum is organized by level: Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, and High School.	Curriculum details Blended curriculum combines Cambridge International Primary and Secondary curricula, including IGCSEs, with the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. A bilingual Portuguese-English pathway is available up to Year 5. In Years 12 and 13 (ages 17–18), students may choose between the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and A-Levels. The school is a candidate IB World School pursuing authorization to offer the IB Diploma Programme.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio High School class sizes are small, with no more than 20 students per class. The High School includes Grades 9-12 with a maximum of 60 students per grade.	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results CAISL has been an IB World School since 2002. In 2025, IB results show an average DP score of 34.3 with a 98% pass rate, and 26 bilingual diplomas awarded from 58 candidates (57 awarded the IB Diploma). SAT results for 2025 show an average composite of 1267 from 58 test-takers (Reading & Writing 640; Math 627). MAP results indicate CAISL averages above U.S. and international comparison groups in Reading and Math.	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression College destinations for CAISL graduates include USA: Boston College, Georgetown University, Northeastern University, SUNY Binghamton University, Texas Christian University, and the United States Military Academy; UK: Goldsmiths, King's College London, Lancaster, Loughborough, University of Birmingham, University of Cambridge, University of Manchester, University of the Arts London, University of Warwick; Portugal: ISCTE, Univ. Católica, Univ. Lisboa, Univ. Nova de Lisboa; Netherlands: Amsterdam University College, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Leiden University College, Utrecht University, University of Amsterdam; Other: IE University (Spain), McGill University (Canada), RWTH Aachen University (Germany), Aarhus University (Denmark), Malmö University (Sweden).	Higher education progression Graduates have access to specialist university counselling. Over 90% of Inspired graduates go to their first-choice university, and about one in three join Russell Group or Ivy League universities. Destinations include universities such as University of St Andrews, University of Strathclyde, Warwick University, and numerous leading institutions worldwide.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented The school offers a broad enrichment programme with weekly co-curricular clubs across sports, arts and academics. There is a Signature Enrichment Programme and weekend enrichment for boarders, plus specialist coaching to support top university destinations.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning CAISL provides counseling and guidance to support students' social and emotional development. The Counseling Department serves Grades 1–12 with a team of four counselors, including three certified clinical psychologists; counseling is available in individual and group formats and involves close collaboration with parents. Information is treated confidentially, and counselors help families access local resources when needed.	Social & emotional learning The Wellbeing Department creates a respectful and safe school environment addressing physical, social, emotional and intellectual aspects. The department provides guidance from teaching and non-teaching staff as students grow and develop in the school, with a wellbeing lead coordinating support through the curriculum and assemblies and offering counselling when needed. For younger students, the class teacher and learning assistant are the initial contacts for help, and the pastoral and wellbeing leader plans for needs through the curriculum and assembly programme. Personal Social Health Education (PSHE) lessons promote a healthy diet and wellbeing, and the school accommodates special diets on request.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) CAISL offers Learning Support for students with mild learning difficulties, with small-group instruction, regular progress monitoring, formal accommodations, executive functioning skills development, and literacy support. The program is designed for students who can function in a regular classroom setting; CAISL does not provide services for severe learning or behavioral problems. Educational/Health Plans are written when there is a relevant evaluation or medical condition and reviewed annually.	Special educational needs (SEN) —
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English is the medium of instruction in all classes. English as a Language (EAL) classes are available in small groups to support students whose first language is not English; ESL can be delivered through immersion, sheltered classes, or monitoring. Admission testing is used for non-native English speakers, with progression plans and monitoring (including WIDA assessments) to move students to mainstream English instruction; high school entry for non-native speakers requires demonstrated English fluency.	English as an additional language The school offers a bilingual programme up to Year 5, in Portuguese and English. From Year 3, students begin learning French and Spanish. By Year 5, students can choose French, Spanish or Portuguese alongside English, and there is a bilingual stream in English and Portuguese available through Year 5. Cambridge International Primary Curriculum feeds into Cambridge International IGCSEs, with courses including English as a First Language and English as a Second Language.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing CAISL offers personal counseling to support emotional and social well-being for students in Grades 1–12, with a team of counselors available for individual or group sessions. Counselors work with students to develop healthy strategies and maintain confidentiality while coordinating with families as needed.	Mental wellbeing Counselling is provided to support students' emotional needs and wellbeing. The Wellbeing Leader coordinates wellbeing support through the curriculum and assemblies to ensure student wellbeing is addressed.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding CAISL has a Child Protection Policy with annual staff training and a formal process for safeguarding students. Recruitment follows rigorous child-protection standards, including background checks and verification of criminal records for staff, contractors, and volunteers. A designated Child Protection Officer oversees safeguarding and there is a Child Protection Handbook and a formal reporting process for suspected abuse or neglect.	Safeguarding Safeguarding is embedded in boarding and school life. Staff (boarding or teaching) are always present in boarding areas. Boarding areas are accessible only to students and King's College School, Cascais staff. Only announced, approved, and recorded visitors are permitted to enter the boarding area, and all visitors must sign in and out. Students should not leave valuables unattended, and incidents must be reported to boarding staff (with the potential involvement of local police). Boarding bans weapons and banned substances, and restricts certain personal electronic devices in bedrooms. Boarding staff ensure safety during drills and fire procedures, and safeguarding principles align with privacy expectations under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview CAISL's campus serves Pre-School through High School with dedicated classrooms, labs, and collaborative spaces designed to support academic and extracurricular programs. The space includes a Pre-School and Elementary area with age-appropriate classrooms and direct playground access, and Middle School and High School spaces with subject-specific classrooms, science labs, and student gathering areas. Outdoor athletics facilities include a professional-sized soccer field, two multi-purpose fields, three outdoor basketball courts, and track-and-field facilities, complemented by an indoor gymnasium and a smaller gym for younger students with a fitness room. The arts and music spaces feature dedicated art rooms and music classrooms, a theatre that seats over 400, a main library with extensive resources, and technology resources across the campus.	Facilities overview Brand new facilities on a purpose-built campus for ages 1–16. Fully inaugurated in September 2025, the 40,000 m² campus combines world-class academic, sports, and arts facilities. The site includes university-grade science laboratories, technology-rich classrooms, and modern creative and performing arts studios. Expansive green spaces and outdoor learning areas promote wellbeing, exploration and a strong connection with nature. From age 13 onwards, there is a boarding house option providing a safe, supportive residential experience.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities CAISL offers extensive athletics facilities: outdoor spaces include a professional-sized soccer field, two multi-purpose fields, three outdoor basketball courts, and track-and-field facilities, plus a baby gym for preschool. Indoor spaces include a gymnasium configurable for two basketball courts or three volleyball courts, a smaller gym for younger students, and a fitness room with machines and free weights.	Sports facilities The campus offers world-class sports facilities, including a 25 m competition-standard swimming pool. A full-sized football and rugby pitch is available. A sports pavilion provides more than 400 spectator seats. Two tennis courts and a basketball court complete the facilities. The Elite Sports Programme supports talented student-athletes to train and excel.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Middle School and High School provide specialized classrooms, labs, collaborative spaces, and student gathering areas to support deeper learning and university preparation. Students have access to subject-specific classrooms, science labs, and central atriums serving as social hubs. Pre-School and Elementary spaces include dedicated classrooms with in-class bathrooms and direct playground access, with elementary students receiving Art, Music, and Physical Education instruction.	Academic facilities University-grade science laboratories enable hands-on experimentation. Technology-rich classrooms integrate digital tools into lessons. Modern creative and performing arts studios support music, drama, and dance. Expansive outdoor learning spaces promote wellbeing and hands-on learning.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities CAISL offers after-school activities and clubs across grades, with registration after the start of the school year and the ability to filter by grade and day. Igniting Passions highlights Arts and Athletics programs, including concerts by Choir and Orchestra, and weekly Open Mic events. The program includes Arts & Crafts, Ballet, Basketball, Ceramics, Chess, Chinese language and culture clubs, percussion groups, choir, theatre, and many other after-school activities supported by dedicated Fine Arts spaces such as music classrooms, art rooms, a 400-seat theatre, and the main library. The campus hosts MUN programs and a range of after-school opportunities through Beyond the Classroom.	Extra curricular facilities All students learn a language until Year 6. Starting from Year 3, students begin learning French and Spanish, and by Year 5 they have the choice of studying French, Spanish, or Portuguese alongside English. A bilingual English-Portuguese stream is available through Year 5. Extra after-school language classes are offered as part of the co-curricular activities program. The Global Exchange Programme offers stays from 4 weeks to a full academic year, with destinations including Spain, the UK, Italy, Switzerland, Belgium, South Africa and New Zealand. The Elite Sports Programme supports talented student-athletes to train and excel.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History CAISL began in 1956 when Anthony McKenna founded a school with a big vision: bringing American education to Portugal, starting with 9 students in a small apartment in Pedrouços. In 1984 the Portuguese Ministry of Education officially recognized the school's educational program. In 1998 the Linhó campus was established, uniting the divisions on a purpose-built learning environment. CAISL is governed by the Fundação Escola Americana de Lisboa Board of Trustees, composed of three members: one appointed by Visteon Portuguesa and two appointed by the U.S. Embassy to Portugal, who set policy and long-term direction while day-to-day operations are delegated to school leadership. By 2026 CAISL has grown from 9 students to more than 700, marking 70 years of operation.	History King's College School, Cascais opened its doors in Cascais, Portugal. The school carries a 50-year heritage of academic excellence from the King's College School group, augmented by Inspired—the global education group with over 120 premium schools across five continents. The curriculum combines the Cambridge International programme up to Year 11 with a bilingual Portuguese-English offering up to Year 5 and is pursuing the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for Years 12–13. A new private campus was inaugurated in September 2025 on a 40,000sqm site, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and a Boarding House for up to 50 students aged 13–18. Inspired provides access to a global network through exchanges, summer camps and collaborations with premium schools across the world.
Community	Community CAISL is a truly international school community where every student is known, supported, and valued. At the start of the 2025–2026 school year, CAISL enrolled 755 students representing 62 nationalities. All of our faculty are fluent English speakers, and about 70% of core subject teachers are native speakers or program carriers. The CAISL community includes everyone who shares an interest in the success of our learners.	Community King's College School Cascais prioritizes communication between school and parents and aims to build a strong school community, involving parents fully in their children's education. There is an ongoing information flow to parents and students via newsletters, social media and events, with regular written reports and scheduled parent-teacher consultations. The Head of School and teaching staff are available to discuss matters outside calendar consultations. The school regularly hosts events such as sports days, the annual school fair, and artistic performances to foster a welcoming community.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The Parent Support Group (PSG) is made up of CAISL parents who promote a sense of belonging and mutual support across the school community. The PSG organizes activities for CAISL families and staff, as well as some adults-only activities during the school days. The group brings together a significant number of parent volunteers and functions without a hierarchical structure; they meet at least once a month and charge no fees, and any school parent is welcome to attend. There is no required process to join; to be added to the mailing list, write to psg@caisl Lisbon.org, or simply join the next meeting. Next meetings and activities usually occur on the first Tuesday of every month. Event samples include Welcome Back BBQ, Movie Night/Matinee, Teacher Appreciation, Seasonal Decorations, Trekking, and a Book Club.	Parent teacher association —
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual CAISL offers a broad range of after-school programs that extend academic exploration and intellectual growth. The Model United Nations program builds research, diplomacy, negotiation, and public speaking skills, with Junior MUN and Iberian MUN conferences and opportunities to participate in THIMUN events. Middle School participates in Week Without Walls, traveling to historical, cultural, and scientific sites to deepen understanding. Technology is integrated across the curriculum, with coding, robotics, and AI exploration, including the use of virtual reality to tackle real‑world problems.	Academic & intellectual The school teaches the Cambridge International curriculum to Year 11, with a bilingual English/Portuguese stream to Year 5, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in Year 12 and 13. The school teaches a framework of critical and lateral thinking, supported by technology-rich teaching. The school has a Challenge and Extension programme to develop higher-order thinking, with cognitive testing, an Inspired Assessment and exam-preparation plan, and weekly Cycle Tests plus two mock exams. The school integrates technology across learning—from Beebots and Toughcams in the early years to robotics development and 3D printing for older students—and offers online learning to support continuity of education.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative CAISL's Fine Arts program includes Music, Visual Arts, and Drama, taught by specialist teachers from Early Childhood onward. Visual Arts begin in Elementary and continue through Grade 12, with a String Orchestra and Choir developing in the upper years and drama electives such as Musical Theater, One Act Plays, and Theater Studies, plus ISTA Theater Festival participation for High School Drama. The school also offers a range of after‑school arts activities and clubs, including Film Makers Club, Experimental Art Club, Sewing/Clothing design, and other offerings such as Guitar, Drums, and Piano, with public performances throughout the year.	Arts & creative The school teaches performing and creative arts as part of the core curriculum, including drama, public speaking, instrumental music, and the visual arts. The campus provides modern creative and performing arts studios to support artistic learning. The arts are integrated across experiences and performances, fostering creativity and confidence.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Portuguese Language & Culture is an activity to improve Portuguese speaking through elements of Portugal's history and culture, meeting twice a month with field trips to sites such as Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. Portuguese Club is also offered as a fee‑based language club to support language practice.	Cultural & language The school teaches a bilingual English/Portuguese stream to Year 5. The school offers international exchanges through the Inspired Global Exchange Programme. Exchanges are available in Spain, the UK, Italy, Switzerland, Belgium, South Africa and New Zealand. Students can experience new places, improve language skills, and experience new cultures.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies CAISL offers a wide range of after‑school activities led by teachers or external partners, including debate, science, technology, and chess. In Middle and High School, lunchtime and after‑school clubs encourage leadership, collaboration, and exploration of interests across diverse topics. Examples of student clubs and activities include Dungeons & Dragons, Girl Scouts, Lego Club, Scrapbooking, Sewing Club, DJing, Piano, and Minikinos Stop Motion Film Making.	Social & hobbies The school teaches a broad sports program including football, basketball, cricket, swimming and tennis. The sport pillar emphasises health and wellbeing, motivation, self-discipline and self-esteem. Students participate in team sports or individual pursuits, supported by extensive facilities. The campus features a 25m competition-standard swimming pool, a full-sized football and rugby pitch, a sports pavilion, two tennis courts and a basketball court.
Community & service	Community & service Community Service at CAISL is central to growth, with the Secondary Community Service Club organizing bake sales, fundraising, Banco Alimentar drives, and housing projects with Associação DOMUS. High School Honor Societies such as National Honor Society, Tri‑M, the Thespian Troupe, and the Honorable Art Society include service components and engage in fundraising and other service activities. Independent Service Projects and Service Learning connect classroom goals to community needs, such as migration symposia and fundraising for water in South Sudan. Parent participation through the Parent Support Group also contributes to service activities like Banco Alimentar and charitable knitting projects.	Community & service The school has regular communication with parents via newsletters, social media and events. Written reports on individual student progress and parent-teacher consultation evenings are provided. Activities and events, including school sports days, the annual school fair and artistic performances, help build a wider sense of community. The school also encourages parent involvement as an essential part of the education of every child.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The MUN program develops leadership, global awareness, and self‑confidence, with Junior MUN and Iberian MUN as major events and participation in THIMUN conferences. CAISL hosts IMUN, an Iberian MUN conference, and senior students often take on leadership roles such as chairs or Secretaries General. In addition, CAISL supports leadership development through clubs and initiatives like Next Gen Leaders (Startwise) as part of its after‑school offerings.	Leadership & professional The school has a Challenge and Extension programme to nurture each student's individuality, talent and passions. The school supports each student with tracking and individual intervention plans to help them reach their maximum potential. The school uses cognitive testing to measure potential and provides Inspired Assessment and exam-preparation plans, plus Cycle Tests and two mock exams. The school integrates technology across learning and supports online learning to extend education.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing CAISL's Athletics program focuses on participation, team development, and sportsmanship, with after‑school teams in soccer, volleyball, basketball, and baseball for younger students and high school teams traveling to European tournaments. The program emphasizes safe competition, fitness, and multicultural experience as part of its mission. Field trips and Outdoor Learning experiences, including farm visits, planting, and environmental activities, supplement physical and outdoor wellness. Kidding Around Yoga and other wellness activities are offered as part of after‑school options to support physical and mental well‑being.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The school has expansive green spaces and outdoor learning areas that promote wellbeing. The campus provides a 25m pool and other elite sports facilities, with a boarding house available for students from age 13. Mindfulness routines and a PSHE programme contribute to a respectful environment addressing physical, social, emotional and intellectual development. Boarding options offer a safe and enriching residential experience.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision All CAISL classes are taught in English, with Portuguese Native Language and Portuguese as a Foreign Language offered throughout the grades. Portuguese is required for all students through Grade 9. Portuguese Native Language follows the Ministry of Education curriculum for its levels, while Portuguese as a Foreign Language is designed to help students develop functional proficiency before moving to the Native/Fluent program. English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESL) support is provided to assist non-native English speakers.	Language provision Languages are an important part of the curriculum, with English, Portuguese, Spanish and French taught by specialist teachers from the primary years onward. A bilingual Portuguese-English programme is offered for students up to Year 5. From Reception to Year 11, the Cambridge International curriculum is followed, leading to International GCSE examinations. The curriculum blends the Cambridge International curriculum with the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for Years 12-13, and language learning is enriched by drawing on Portugal's culture and heritage.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching Bilingual teaching is provided in Early Childhood, with English as the primary language of instruction and Portuguese introduced through immersion. In Early Childhood, two teachers work together, one fluent in English and one in Portuguese, with both often bilingual. The English-language instruction extends to most grades, while Portuguese is taught as a Native/Fluent Language and as a Foreign Language throughout the grades. ESL support is available for non-native English speakers.	Bilingual teaching The school offers a Bilingual (Portuguese and English) programme for students up to Year 5.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs English is used as the language of instruction in Early Childhood with Portuguese introduced through immersion. In EC, two teachers work together, one fluent in English and one in Portuguese, and both are often bilingual, providing an English-Portuguese immersive experience. ESL support helps non-native English speakers access the regular curriculum.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards null	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations CAISL is fully accredited and operates with a permanent authorization to offer an American curricular program for EC3 through 12th grade; CAISL is authorized to award an American High School Diploma and the International Baccalaureate Diploma, both accepted worldwide including for entry into Portuguese universities. CAISL is authorized by the IB Organization to offer the IB Diploma Program and is accredited by the Middle States Association (MSA) Commission on Elementary and Secondary Education. CAISL is the only “assisted school” in Portugal from the U.S. Department of State. Memberships include American Education Reaches Out, Association of Private and Cooperative Educational Institutions (Portugal), Independent Schools Management, International Schools Theater Association, Mediterranean Association of International Schools, National Association of Independent Schools, National Honor Society, The Educational Collaborative for International Schools, and Virtual High School Learning.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions CAISL accepts applications year-round with rolling admissions and welcomes new students at any point during the school year. Starting at the beginning of the school year is often ideal, but not essential. The three-step application process is: First Step—Submit Application: an online form, required documents (school records for the last three years, standardized testing results, and any additional reports), and an application fee of 100 Euros; applications are reviewed only when complete. Second Step—Application Review: decisions are made by a team that includes a member of the Admissions Team, the appropriate Principal (Elementary or Secondary), and the Director; space in the grade/program and the student's academic and behavioral records inform the decision; if a class is full, no new enrollments are accepted until a spot opens; the availability of specialized programs (Learning Support, English as an Additional Language, Nursing/Medical care, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program) also affects eligibility. Third Step—Enrollment: when a place becomes available, enrollment requires an Enrollment Contract, a Registration Agreement (updated annually in February), copies of valid identification for the student and the parents, billing information, and proof of payment of the required fees; three mandatory fees to secure a place are: a one-time Registration Fee of 600 Euros, a Building Fee of 1,953 Euros per year (payable for the first five years), and one quarter of the annual Tuition (amount varies by grade); details are in the Fee Schedule.	Admissions Early Years & Primary School 1. Application: An application is created on Open Apply, including uploading relevant reports. Prospective families book a General Tour of the School Campus, which can be in person or online. Prospective families who are following the Admission Process should pay the €250 registration fee per family (non-refundable). 2. Entry Assessments: EY2–EY4 applicants are invited to Stay & Play on campus, which includes a tour of the school. Years 1 & 2 applicants are invited to schedule an assessment with the Well‑being team. Years 3–6 applicants are invited to take an online entrance test to assess suitability for an academically selective school. If the applicant's results indicate readiness for the demands of King's College School Cascais, they will be invited to the Academic Interviews stage. 3. Academic Interviews: An academic interview with relevant staff is conducted, which includes a reading comprehension and maths skills activity. 4. Admission Decision: Applicants who demonstrate the relevant academic potential during the Academic Interview stage will receive either a Guaranteed Place Offer or a Conditional offer. 5. Enrolment: On the receipt of all necessary documentation and appropriate payment, and acceptance of terms and conditions, enrolment proceeds. Senior School 1. Application: An application is created on Open Apply, including uploading relevant reports. Prospective Families book a group General Tour of the School to meet the Head of Senior School, and have a tour as part of this led by Senior School students. Prospective families who are interested in following the Admissions Process should pay the €250 Registration Fee per family (non-refundable). 2. Entry Assessments: Applicants are invited to take an online entrance test to assess their suitability to be part of an academically selective school. If the applicant's results from these entry assessments are deemed high enough to cope with the demands of such a school, they will be invited to the Academic Interviews stage. 3. Academic Interviews: An academic interview with relevant staff, which includes a reading comprehension activity. Students applying for a Boarding Place will meet the Head of Boarding. 4. Admission Decision: Applicants who demonstrate the relevant academic potential during the Academic Interview stage will receive either a Guaranteed Place Offer or a Conditional offer. 5. Enrolment: On the receipt of all necessary documentation and appropriate payment, and acceptance of terms and conditions, enrolment proceeds.
Scholarships	Scholarships CAISL Scholarship is not available for new students at this moment. It is a merit-driven award that also considers financial need. Applications are accepted from students currently attending Grades 4 through 7 and entering Grade 5 through Grade 8. The Scholarship covers all required fees (tuition, building fee, registration fee, and transportation), but lunch is not included. The scholarship is awarded for one academic year with the expectation that recipients will continue to meet requirements for subsequent years through graduation from the High School in Grade 12. For information about all school fees, refer to the Fee Schedule. Questions can be directed to admissions@caislisbon.org or +351 219 239 800.	Scholarships The Nsouli Scholars Programme is an exciting global initiative that promises to transform lives by enabling 50 extraordinary students at any one time to attend any of Inspired's prestigious schools on a full scholarship for the duration of their education. The ambition is that the scholarship will provide hundreds of children with an opportunity to receive a truly transformative education. This endowment honours Nadim Nsouli, who founded Inspired in 2013, in recognition of his Lebanese heritage; several scholarships will be awarded to individuals of Lebanese origin. The Inspired group includes top-rated day and boarding schools worldwide, providing access to a global network and opportunities across sports, the arts and exchanges. The Nsouli Scholars Programme is an investment in education and in shaping future leaders.
Waitlist	Waitlist WAIT POOL: If there is no space in the grade or program or the applicant is eligible but space is not available, the student may be placed in the Wait Pool for the school year; updates will be requested if the family remains interested; it is impossible to predict when space will become available; when space opens, all Wait Pool applicants are reconsidered and offers are made based on the submitted academic/behavioral records. PRIORITY LIST: 1) Current CAISL re-enrolling students; 2) Students whose parents are US Government employees; 3) Students from American or American International Schools; 4) Students from schools whose primary language of instruction is English; 5) Students from bilingual schools or linguistically unable to attend a school whose instruction is in Portuguese; 6) Students from schools whose instruction language is Portuguese.	Waitlist —
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