Oeiras International School vs Redbridge International School - Campo de Ourique Campus

	O Oeiras International School Lisbon, Portugal	R Redbridge International School - Campo de Ourique Campus Lisbon, Portugal
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year €14,962 - 24,844	Fees / year €8,600 - 17,900
Age range	Age range 6 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)	Curriculum IB (DP), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, French Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 463	Pupils 550
Typical class size	Typical class size 16	Typical class size 16
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language French, English, Portuguese
Opened	Opened 2010	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Oeiras International School is located in Oeiras, Portugal, on land leased from the municipality. Oeiras is about 15 minutes by car from Lisbon and the Lisbon airport.	Location Lisbon, Portugal. Two campuses: Campo de Ourique Campus at Rua Francisco Metrass, Nº 97, 1350-164 Lisboa; Tapada da Ajuda Campus at Tapada da Ajuda, 1349-017 Lisboa.
Stages	Stages Primary Years Programme (Age 5-11), Middle Years Programme (Age 11-16), Diploma Programme (Age 16-19).	Stages Early Years (3-5 years); CP to CM2 (French International Programme); 6ème to Terminale (French International Programme); 1º Ciclo and 2º Ciclo (Portuguese International Programme); Lower and Upper Secondary (Cambridge International Programme); IBDP (International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme).
School type	School type Oeiras International School is a non-profit Association (OIS, ASFL) founded by parents and is an International Baccalaureate World School.	School type International school
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix Nationalities represented: 48+.	Pupil nationality mix Nationalities represented: 36.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support A learning support programme exists as part of OIS's inclusive IB World School approach. Applicants with severe emotional needs cannot be catered for.	Additional learning support —
Country affiliation	Country affiliation —	Country affiliation Portugal
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure School buses arrive with students between 8:00am and 8:15am. Afternoon buses depart at 4:00pm and 5:30pm.	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details The School runs its own bus routes from Cascais, Estoril, Sintra, Parede and the Lisbon area.	Bus service details —
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and Registration Fees - Application fee (one-time, paid at application): €250. - Registration fee (one‑time, payable on enrolment according to the schedule below): amounts vary by year group (see Tuition by year group). The registration charge is non‑refundable. Tuition fees (per term and per year, by year group) - Years 1–4 (Pre‑PYP and PYP 1, 2 & 3): Registration €1,355; Term €4,064; Annual €13,547. - Year 5 (PYP 4): Registration €1,413; Term €4,238; Annual €14,127. - Year 6 (PYP 5): Registration €1,683; Term €5,049; Annual €16,830. - Years 7–9 (MYP 1, 2 & 3): Registration €1,799; Term €5,396; Annual €17,987. - Years 10–11 (MYP 4 & 5): Registration €2,127; Term €6,382; Annual €21,273. - Year 12 (DP 1): Registration €2,171; Term €6,514; Annual €21,713. - Year 13 (DP 2 — two terms only): Registration €2,171; Term €9,771; Annual €21,713. Additional one‑off and recurring fees - Capital levy (one‑time, non‑refundable for new entrants): one new student €5,000; two siblings starting in the same year €7,500; three or more siblings starting in the same year €8,500. Current families enrolling a new student receive a 10% discount on the capital levy. - Annual insurance per student: €20. - Yearbook (per family): €40. - Examination charges: Year 11 IB‑MYP assessment €900 (billed with Term II); Year 13 IB‑DP assessment €900 (billed with Term II). Transport and Meals (charged separately, invoiced per term) - School transportation (invoiced per term): one way €525; two ways €840. - School meals (invoiced per term; price per meal): €6.30 per day (includes soup, salad, a main course, dessert/fruit and a low‑sugar drink). Discounts and fines - Sibling discounts on tuition term fees: second child 5%; third child 15%; fourth child and subsequent children 25%. Annual tuition paid in advance before the posted deadline receives a 2.5% discount (deadline is communicated by the school). Discounts apply only to term fees and are annulled if fees are not paid on schedule. - Fines and charges: damaged or unreturned library books charged at replacement cost plus a 15% surcharge; lost team equipment €100; lost student card €5. Late payments incur legal taxes of 4% and may lead to suspension of services. Billing schedule and payment terms - Fees are invoiced by term. Payment deadlines: Registration by February 1; Term I by July 1; Term II by December 1; Term III by April 1. Termly fees are payable within 30 days of invoice. Further delay may result in suspension of services and legal late charges. Refunds and withdrawal notice - The registration charge is non‑refundable. Once registration is completed the student is deemed enrolled; if a registered student does not attend, Term I fees remain payable. The school requires one term's written notice to the Principal for withdrawal; without this notice the corresponding term fees remain due. Boarding - Boarding is not offered; the school operates as a day school. Accepted payment methods and payment details - Bank transfer (details provided by the school; ensure transfers are made net of bank charges and the student's name is given to allocate funds). IBAN and BIC/SWIFT details are used for euro payments. - Payment by check is accepted (payable to Oeiras International School ASFL). Other notes on fees - Application fee is a one‑time mandatory administrative charge for applicants. Capital levy and registration charges are one‑time entry costs and are non‑refundable. Certain exam and event charges are billed with specific term invoices as noted above.	Fee details Tuition fees (School Year 2026/2027) - Early Years (Petite, Moyenne, Grande Sections): EUR 890 per month; EUR 2,967 per term; EUR 8,900 per year. - French/English Pathway – Primary (CP to CM2): EUR 1,082 per month; EUR 3,607 per term; EUR 10,820 per year. - French/English Pathway – Lower Secondary (6ème to 3ème / Years 8–10): EUR 1,236 per month; EUR 4,120 per term; EUR 12,360 per year. - French/English Pathway – Upper Secondary (2nde, 1ère, Terminale / Years 11–13): EUR 1,339 per month; EUR 4,463 per term; EUR 13,390 per year. - Portuguese/English Pathway – 1.º Ciclo (1.º to 4.º ano): EUR 1,082 per month; EUR 3,607 per term; EUR 10,820 per year. - Portuguese/English Pathway – 2.º Ciclo (5.º and 6.º ano): EUR 1,082 per month; EUR 3,607 per term; EUR 10,820 per year. - Cambridge Secondary – Lower Cambridge (Year 8, Year 9): EUR 1,590 per month; EUR 5,300 per term; EUR 15,900 per year. - Cambridge Secondary – Upper Cambridge (Year 10, Year 11): EUR 1,800 per month; EUR 6,000 per term; EUR 18,000 per year. - IBDP (Year 12): EUR 1,800 per month; EUR 6,000 per term; EUR 18,000 per year. Application and enrolment fees - Application fee (paid at application): EUR 200. This fee is mandatory and non-refundable. - Enrolment fee (one-time payment on acceptance): EUR 4,000 for a new student; enrolment fee for second or subsequent child: EUR 1,750. The enrolment fee is mandatory and non-refundable. For new secondary students, a percentage of the enrolment fee is deducted from the first invoice (25% deducted from the first invoice for 6ème to 3ème/Years 8–10; 50% deducted for 2nde/Year 11 onwards). Administration & resource fee - Early Years, Primary years and 2.º Ciclo: EUR 625 per year (mandatory, non-refundable). - Secondary (6ème to Terminale; Year 8 to Year 12): EUR 750 per year (mandatory, non-refundable). School meals and related charges - Early Years: EUR 140 x 10 months (EUR 1,400 per year). Not refundable in case of absence. - Year 1 to Year 4 (CP / 1º ano to CM1 / 4º ano): EUR 150 x 10 months (EUR 1,500 per year). Not refundable in case of absence. - Year 5 and above (CM2 / 5º ano and above): EUR 160 x 10 months (EUR 1,600 per year). Not refundable in case of absence. Other annual fees and charges - Parent association membership (optional): EUR 10 per year (non-refundable). - Annual insurance fee: EUR 30. - Examination fees for external IGCSE/other external exams are not included in tuition and are charged separately. Sibling discounts and special discounts - Enrolment fee for the second child and other subsequent children: 25% discount on enrolment fee (resulting enrolment fee noted above as EUR 1,750 for second/subsequent child). Tuition fee discounts for concurrently enrolled siblings: second child tuition - 5% discount; third child tuition - 15% discount; fourth and subsequent children - 25% discount. Founder-family discounts on Early Years and Primary tuition for qualifying founding years are also recorded. Discounts apply to tuition only and do not apply to additional mandatory fees. Billing schedule and payment terms - Annual payment option: the invoice for annual payment is issued mid-June 2026 for the full amount. A 2% refund (discount) on the yearly tuition is applied if the annual payment is received before 15 July 2026. - Instalment options historically offered and used for invoicing (examples of established practice): monthly payment by direct debit (10 monthly instalments), termly payment (three termly instalments) or annual payment in full. Termly invoices are normally due within 30 days of issue; monthly instalments are collected by direct debit or e-ticket arrangements. All amounts must be received net of bank charges. Specific due dates and allowed instalment plans are set on each year's invoice. - Consequences for late payment historically include interest charges on overdue sums and possible suspension of enrolment; payment deadlines and penalties are stated on invoices and in the school's admissions/terms documents. Refunds and non-refundable items - Application fee: non-refundable. - Enrolment fee: non-refundable in all cases. - Administration & Resource fee: mandatory and non-refundable; payment of this fee is required to secure re-enrolment. - School meals: not refundable in case of absence. - Annual tuition: no general refund for absences; refund rules (if any) and effective dates for withdrawal are specified in the school's terms and are applied per the admissions/terms documents. Early-payment 2% reduction is treated as a discount rather than a refund. Fee payment options (methods commonly used for application, enrolment and tuition invoices) - Bank transfer is the principal method for application and enrolment fee payments and for many termly/annual payments. All payments should be received net of bank charges. - Monthly payments are commonly processed by direct debit or via e-ticket systems (examples: Edenred / Cheque Infancia) for families using monthly instalments. Termly payments can be made by bank transfer, direct debit or e-ticket; annual payments are typically made by bank transfer and/or ticket systems. Historical practice also accepts cheque in some cases. Exact available payment channels for a given year and invoice are stated on that year's invoices and admissions documentation. Notes on mandatory items and inclusions - Administration & Resource fee covers the school's annual manuals, books and resources; parents are responsible for replacement charges for lost or damaged materials beyond normal wear. - Examination fees for external assessments (e.g., IGCSE) are additional to the tuition figures shown above. (Information validated January 2026 for the 2026/2027 tuition schedule and related fees.)
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement The school uniform is required for all students in Years 2 to 11. Everyday uniform for Years 2-11 includes grey trousers or skirt, white polo shirt, grey socks or tights, all black shoes, a light blue jumper, a grey hoodie, a blue fleece, and outerwear as needed. The P.E. uniform, or team uniform and tracksuit, is compulsory for all sporting activities and travel to events; House T-shirts are worn only for House activities.	Uniform requirement The uniform is mandatory for all students from Early Years through Seconde / Year 11. The Standard Uniform consists of a Redbridge short- or long-sleeved T-shirt or polo shirt, a Redbridge sweatshirt or hoodie, and Redbridge shorts or tracksuit bottoms (Early Years). On PE days, Redbridge-branded sportswear must be worn; from CM2 upwards, PE kit includes a Redbridge T-shirt, leggings or shorts, and a jumper with the Redbridge logo; for 1ère/Terminale (Year 12 & 13), students are not required to wear the school uniform but must dress in appropriate, professional attire.
Food options	Food options Healthy meals are provided daily through Origem, with vegetarian and vegan options; menus include soup, salad, a main course (meat, fish or vegetarian), fruit or dessert, and a low-sugar juice or water. Microwaves and picnic areas are available for meals brought from home, and an on‑campus coffee shop offers snacks and Portuguese treats.	Food options Freshly prepared meals are provided through an on-site kitchen in collaboration with Thomas Franks, using locally sourced ingredients. Meals include a three-course lunch and healthy snacks; the dining hall is designed as an extension of the learning environment and promotes sustainability.
House system	House system On joining OIS, families are assigned to one of four Houses—Kingfisher, Phantom, João Baptista or Vulpes. There are house competitions in sport, arts and academics, with points contributing to the end‑of‑year House Trophy.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Oeiras International School (OIS, ASFL) is a not‑for‑profit association founded in 2009 by 30 parents and associates. The Board, elected by the Associates, oversees governance; the school reinvests revenue into facilities and staff as there are no owners or shareholders.	Governance and ownership The school is a private school in Portugal. Accreditations include AEFE for Early Years and the French International Pathway; Cambridge International Education accreditation for the Cambridge programme; membership of AEEP (Associação de Estabelecimentos de Ensino Particular e Cooperativo); and accreditation by DGEstE (Direção-Geral dos Estabelecimentos Escolares) for the Portuguese/English section.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details OIS offers the International Baccalaureate Continuum: Primary Years Programme (PYP) for ages 6 to 10 (PYP1 to PYP5), Middle Years Programme (MYP) for ages 11 to 16 (MYP1 to MYP5), and Diploma Programme (DP) for ages 17 to 18 (DP1, DP2). The school is an IB World School authorised to offer PYP, MYP and DP. PYP is an inquiry-based learning programme for children aged 6 to 10. MYP builds on prior learning and leads to the MYP certificate. The DP is internationally recognised for university admissions.	Curriculum details The school uses a plurilingual approach from Early Years with instruction in French, Portuguese and English. Primary Years offer two international pathways: French International Programme (French national curriculum) for CP to CM2, and Portuguese International Programme (Portuguese national curriculum) for 1.º to 6.º ano. Secondary School offers two pathways: French International Programme from 6ème to Terminale, delivered in a bilingual French/English setting and leading to Baccalauréat Français International; and the Cambridge International Programme from Year 8 to Year 11, leading to the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in Year 12 and 13. Cambridge is used for English language learning throughout the journey. The Campo de Ourique campus serves Early and Primary years, while the Tapada da Ajuda campus serves Secondary education.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio 1:6 teacher to student; average class size 16.	Student teacher ratio Ideal-sized learner classes with a student/teacher ratio of 1:6.
Exam results	Exam results IB Diploma Results show high achievement. In 2021, 45 DP candidates with a 100% pass rate and an average DP grade of 5.6; OIS average points were 35, compared with a world average of 32.98. In 2020, 29 DP candidates with a 93% pass rate and an average grade of 5.12; OIS average points 32 versus world average 31.3.	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Graduates go to universities around the world, including notable destinations in the UK, the USA and other countries such as King's College London, University College London, Imperial College London, Stanford University, University of Chicago, McGill University, University of Toronto and the University of Auckland.	Higher education progression French International Programme leads to Baccalauréat Français International. Cambridge International Programme leads to the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in Years 12–13.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented A differentiated enrichment programme includes Forest School, European exchanges, extracurricular activities, sports competitions, sustainable development initiatives and citizenship awareness.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Belonging, inclusion, and physical and emotional safety are foundational to learning at OIS. The Behaviour Policy aligns with the IB Learner Profile to guide respectful interactions and everyday practice. The school provides equal education opportunities and a non-discriminatory environment. A safe, caring environment supports students' social and emotional development.	Social & emotional learning Personal, social and emotional development is a core focus, with well-being, resilience, collaboration and healthy lifestyles emphasised as part of the learning journey. The school embraces a balanced approach to learning and develops attitudes and transversal skills for lifelong learning. The environment is plurilingual and pluricultural, with inclusion ensuring every child feels valued and supported.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) A learning support programme exists as part of OIS's inclusive IB World School approach. Applicants with severe emotional and intellectual needs cannot be catered for.	Special educational needs (SEN) Redbridge International School is inclusive and supports learners from diverse backgrounds. Inclusion ensures every child feels valued and supported. The Admissions Policy notes that, when needed, additional educational support may be provided, including added language support (ALS), learning support (LS), or specific SEN. Language support may be delivered in pull-out or push-in formats, and such services may incur additional charges.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The language of instruction is English. Portuguese and English are core languages studied. German, French, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese are offered as first languages and as language acquisition options. In the MYP, language acquisition is taught for three lessons per week. All potential students undertake an English placement test to determine language development.	English as an additional language Language support is provided for English, French, and Portuguese to learners who face challenges accessing the curriculum due to language barriers.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Wellbeing is a central focus, with Wellbeing Awareness Year celebrating wellbeing topics monthly and involving school psychologists in talks on resilience and mental health. One Tribe Week explicitly focused on belonging and mental health, with mixed-age activities and staff support. Tutors, teachers, the nurse, student support and the psychologist are available to help as needed.	Mental wellbeing A strong emphasis is placed on personal, social and emotional development as well as physical education, recognising the importance of well-being, resilience, collaboration and healthy lifestyles in the overall growth of students.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The school protects the rights of all children, following Portuguese law and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. A Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy guides how safeguarding concerns are handled, with mechanisms to react and respond if abuse is noticed or reported.	Safeguarding —
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The Quinta is the main campus, a 17th-century Portuguese farm with a river, woodlands and green spaces. The Palace houses the library, science labs, and art and music rooms. The Pavilion contains exam classrooms, and the White/Orange Building includes the assembly area, a small gym, classrooms, staff rooms, a cafeteria and computer labs. The PYP building hosts Years 2–4, and campus gardens grow food for social projects while resident goats, donkeys and bees are part of the farm. There is a swimming pool on site, and future plans include a science and technology suite and a purpose-built PYP block. Outdoor spaces include a basketball court, football pitch and a multisport pavilion.	Facilities overview Redbridge International School Lisbon operates across two campuses, Campo de Ourique and Tapada da Ajuda. Both campuses were awarded the Green Flag distinctions in 2025. Campo de Ourique features an Early Years pavilion, a Main Building with the library, science laboratories, an art studio, a music room, a dojo, and a versatile sports hall. Tapada da Ajuda Campus opened in 2024, spans three hectares with four buildings and extensive outdoor spaces, and offers state-of-the-art facilities to support secondary education and the Cambridge pathway. The campuses emphasize sustainability through timber construction and energy-efficient design.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities There is a basketball court, a football pitch and a multisport pavilion. A swimming pool is on site. The campus offers tracks for mountain biking, as well as skateboarding and rollerblading. A cross-country course hosts inter-school tournaments.	Sports facilities Campo de Ourique includes a versatile sports hall for a range of physical activities. Tapada da Ajuda Campus provides extensive outdoor spaces and multiple buildings with sports facilities to support a well-rounded education. Afterschool clubs include basketball sessions in the Campo de Ourique gym hall, and partnerships offer additional sports such as surfing and tennis. Surfing is provided through Tiago Pires Surf School, and Tennis coaching is offered by Fred Gil Academy.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The Palace houses the library, science labs, and art and music rooms. The Pavilion is the latest building with several classrooms. The White/Orange Building contains the main assembly area, a small gym, classrooms, staff rooms, a cafeteria and the computer labs.	Academic facilities The Campo de Ourique Main Building houses Primary Years and 2º Ciclo students and includes the school library, science laboratories, an art studio, a music room, a dojo, and a versatile sports hall. The Early Years Pavilion is a dedicated space with five classrooms opening to a garden and a rooftop play area. Tapada da Ajuda Campus, opened in 2024, comprises four buildings and outdoor spaces, and features an eco-renovation with energy-efficient design; it supports a pre-university STEEM programme developed in partnership with ISA. The two campuses collectively provide facilities across the Cambridge and French International pathways as part of the school's academic pathways.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Co-Curricular Activities run on Wednesdays (MYP) and Thursdays (PYP) with choices that change each term. Learn-to-Swim uses the Barcarena pool. CCAs include Robotics, Game Development, Arts Therapy, Mix It Up, Board Games, Ceramics, Multi Sports, Skateboarding, Yearbook Club, Parkour, Entrepreneurs' Club, Percussion, Journalism/Valley Times and School Production.	Extra curricular facilities Redbridge runs a dynamic enrichment programme for Early Years to Secondary, with a wide range of afterschool clubs. Examples include Crafty Hands, Gardening, Art & Me, Art & Emotions, Story Telling, Ballet, Music & Rhythm, Ceramics, Mini Gym, Cooking Club, Taekwondo, Futsal, Capoeira, Library Club, Chess, Surf, The Inventors, Movie Makers, Hip Hop, Visual Arts, Tennis and Basketball. Surfing is offered through Tiago Pires Surf School; Tennis coaching is delivered by Fred Gil Academy. The Afterschool programme also features Wall Climbing at Escala25, Music Composition, Illustration & Comics, Crochet & Tricot, and a Food Workshop for Secondary students, among others.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Moved to Barcarena, Oeiras in September 2011, Oeiras International School is housed in the Quinta de Nossa Senhora da Conceição, a 17th-century estate built by João Baptista Sinel de Cordes. The Sinel de Cordes family coat of arms is visible at the main gate. The property remained in the family until 1969 when it was sold to a Belgian, later becoming part of the Oeiras Council estate and ultimately the home of OIS. OIS is committed to nurturing a learning community to shape a sustainable world.	History Redbridge International School was founded by four co-founders: Hélène Dubourdieu, Dina Lamb, Elizabeth Mathieu and Swan Sallmard. The founders began working together in the early stages of creating Redbridge to implement a multilingual, multicultural, inclusive and student-centred educational model. They emphasise respecting each child's pace and rhythm of development as part of their approach. With the commitment, care and passion of staff, the engagement and enthusiasm of students and the outstanding support of families, Redbridge has grown into the warm and fulfilling place they dreamt of where everyone grows, learns and thrives.
Community	Community Oeiras International School has an active community with Alumni, Student Houses, Uniform, Co-curricular Activities, and a Student Council, plus a broad After-School Activities (ASA) program offering music, arts, sciences and sports. The ASA program includes a Camp Go outdoor-education partnership to provide hands-on experiences outside the classroom. The school's Parents Club coordinates social and cultural events, including coffee mornings, cultural trips, Winter Wonderland, Arraial and Halloween, as well as fundraisers and wellness activities for families.	Community Redbridge's community is enriched by multilingual and multicultural learning experiences and by school-wide activities documented through Our stories, including sustainability initiatives, cultural exchanges and student projects. Notable posts include Sustainability at School: Teaching Kids to Care for Our Planet (October 13, 2025); Redbridge International School's Student Film Wins International Acclaim! (November 25, 2024); and A Journey of Discovery: Redbridge's Erasmus + Trip to Spain (February 2024), along with Sports Week and other classroom updates that showcase student engagement.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The school has a Parents Club run by parent volunteers, which organizes social and cultural events, coffee mornings, cultural trips, family events such as Winter Wonderland, Arraial and Halloween, bake sales and fundraisers, and monthly cultural trips. The school also has a Parent Council, introduced in early 2023 to provide a representative voice for parents and guardians, and to partner with teachers and school leadership. The Parent Council operates the OIS Community Portal for proposals; its mission is to strengthen communication, provide mentorship opportunities, and create community-driven solutions. Representatives are elected annually to ensure a diverse and inclusive team.	Parent teacher association Class Representatives are parent volunteers who serve a one-year term as a link between parents, teachers and the Parents Association, help share information, organise school and class events, and foster collaboration and community spirit within the class. The Parents Association (PA) is formally recognized in Portugal and brings together parents, students and school leaders to strengthen relationships and enrich the educational experience. The PA's objective is to cultivate positive dialogue between parents and the school and ensure that parental voices are heard in shaping the educational environment. Parents, students and school leaders collaborate within the PA framework to support the school community. You may contact the Parents Association by email at [email protected].
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school offers a range of co-curricular activities that develop academic and intellectual skills, including Robotics and Game Development, as well as Journalism/Valley Times and the Yearbook Club. PYP CCAs include Arts Therapy, General Motor Skills, Mix it Up, and Learn-to-Swim, while MYP CCAs include Art Club, Entrepreneurs' Club, Percussion Club, Parkour, Journalism, Multi-Sports, School Production, Skateboarding, and Yearbook Club. The Duke of Edinburgh Award provides a structured program focusing on volunteering, physical activity and skills, with expeditions, and OIS participates in Model United Nations activities.	Academic & intellectual Robotics is offered as part of enrichment through collaborations with industry professionals, including STAT and Pedro Serrenho. The Inventors is a STEAM club that develops curiosity, creativity and problem-solving through hands-on projects. Chess is available as an after-school activity to develop patience, memory, concentration, problem-solving and logical thinking. The enrichment programme also includes music and drama.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Arts-focused activities include Arts Therapy, Ceramics, Film Making & Creative Writing, Art Club and School Production. Sewing Club, Creative Jewellery Club, and Strings Club are also offered as part of the ASA program, along with a range of music-related sessions.	Arts & creative Ballet introduces fundamental techniques and includes an end-of-year performance. Music & Rhythm uses Orff instruments for EY students to explore sounds and rhythms. Ceramics and Visual Arts teach drawing, painting and sculpting with instructors from Pedro Serrenho Escola de Belas Artes. Movie Makers engages PY students in film acting, storytelling and final editing.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language English and Portuguese are core languages; German, French, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese are offered as additional language options both as first language and language acquisition. Global citizenship and intercultural learning are integrated into OIS's approach, with wellbeing, ethics and respect for diverse contexts. OIS participates in Model United Nations activities, including COP Oeiras Valley simulations and MUN conferences.	Cultural & language Story Telling for EY brings language alive through immersive storytelling. Library Club for PY provides reading and board games in the School Library, promoting social interaction and communication. Capoeira introduces Afro-Brazilian cultural art and dance, fostering cultural awareness and creative expression.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies The After-School Activities (ASA) and Musical Instrument Lessons (MIL) program offers a wide range of pursuits across music, arts, sciences, life skills and combat sports. Current ASA activities include Instrument Clubs, Arts Therapy, Board Games, Ceramics, Film Making & Creative Writing, Robotics & Beyond, Surfing, Skateboarding, OIS Orcas Swimming Academy, and more. Registrations open after the ASA Fair, with a late bus available for eligible students.	Social & hobbies Crafty Hands engages EY students in hands-on activities to enhance creativity and fine motor skills. Gardening introduces nature and sustainability with instructors from Plantae. Movie Makers for PY helps groups develop acting and film production skills.
Community & service	Community & service The Student Council emphasizes service and charity, organizing food bank collections, fundraising and community events. The council engages in school-wide social events and campaigns, and funds improvements for the school community as needed.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The Duke of Edinburgh Award offers Bronze, Silver and Gold levels focusing on volunteering, physical and skills, with expeditions. Leadership is also developed through the Student Council, sports captains, House Captains and Head Students, with annual elections to select student leaders.	Leadership & professional —
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sports are a core part of OIS, with competitive and non-competitive activities and participation in CHESS and ISSA leagues; offered sports include football, volleyball, basketball, and cross-country. Physical and Health Education is integrated into the MYP curriculum, and the Diploma Programme offers Sports, Exercise and Health Sciences as an option. The Quinta grounds provide space for recreational activities, trekking tracks, skating, and inter-school tournaments.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Taekwondo teaches discipline, respect and self-esteem. Futsal is offered with coaches from Escolinha do Figo, emphasizing ball control, quick decision-making and teamwork. Surf is available through Tiago Pires Surf School, building coordination, balance and confidence. Basketball offers after-school sessions to develop teamwork and fitness.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Portuguese and English are core languages; they are taught as first language or Language and Literature in IB terms. German, French, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese are offered as first language and for language acquisition. Most students study three languages, with the level of study matched to fluency rather than age. In the MYP, language acquisition is taught for 3 lessons per week.	Language provision Portuguese, English and French are taught across programmes; English instruction uses the Cambridge International Education curriculum for English; CEFR guides language instruction; in Primary, English is delivered through the Cambridge English Language Programme, and in the French International Programme, the National French curriculum is delivered bilingually with English used for Music, Art and Digital Literacy.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching Portuguese and English are core languages; in IB terms they are Language and Literature or first language. German, French, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese are offered as first language and for language acquisition. Most students study three languages.	Bilingual teaching The school provides bilingual education in Portuguese and English in the early years, with French offered as a third language; each class is guided by two homeroom teachers—one Portuguese-speaking and one English-speaking—who work together to deliver bilingual instruction.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs Immersive English-language learning is integrated with the Portuguese national curriculum in the 1º Ciclo.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Students aged 5 to 18 may be admitted, with OIS beginning in Year 2 (PYP1) for typically 6-year-olds. The school is over-subscribed in most year groups, so applying early is advised. A placement test assesses cognitive ability and learning style; there is no pass or fail mark, and staff determine whether they can support the student, with the Student Support Department assisting if extra help is needed. Priorities for admission are: first current students, staff and founding/associate members; second siblings of current students; other applicants are considered as space allows; under equal conditions, offers go to the student with the best previous academic record. There is a learning support program, but applications with severe emotional needs cannot be catered for. Documentation and an interview are required. OIS accepts applications throughout the year (Rolling Admissions) if space becomes available. English language requirements vary by grade; a minimum level is advised, fluency is not compulsory for admission to certain year groups, and full proficiency is required for Years 10–13 and will be assessed during admissions. The admissions steps are: register your interest; complete the application form and pay the €250 application fee; schedule placement tests; attend an interview with the programme coordinator; Admissions Committee reviews the application; upon successful completion, upload the required documentation and pay the registration fee to secure the place; if there is no space, the applicant will be placed on the waiting list.	Admissions 1. Register and create a profile. Start the admission process by creating an account. Your information is saved in the school's system for future reference. Create your account using an email address you will access throughout the admission season, as this will be the primary contact with the school. 2. Visit the School. After you have created an account and completed the application form, the admissions team will contact you to schedule a visit. The visit is led by a team member who shows you the facilities and explains the school's pedagogical project, life at school, and admission procedures. Your child should attend the visit; if you are applying from abroad, a virtual call can be arranged. 3. Submit your application. When ready, submit copies of the student's and parents' IDs/passports. Please note that the school's acceptance of the application form does not guarantee a place. Ensure all required documents are uploaded to complete the application. 4. Confirmation of Admission. Admission is determined by the Head of School with input from the relevant academic staff and is confirmed in writing by the Admissions Office. Upon admission, pay the enrolment fee within five working days to secure the place. Data transfer of personal information is part of the process and consent for forwarding of data is required.
Scholarships	Scholarships The school offers scholarships for outstanding students. Scholarships may be awarded to students who live or study within the Oeiras area who otherwise may not have the opportunity to benefit from an OIS education. Scholarships are awarded on merit by the Scholarship Selection Council and are weighted by need, with partial or full scholarships possible. They cover all yearly registration and fees and required educational activities, with no other discounts applied. Open to students ranked in the top 10% of their year (Year 7 through Year 12) who live or study in the municipality of Oeiras. Ten full scholarships exist, and automatic yearly renewal is based on continued high academic achievement and significant involvement in wider school activities. The online application must be submitted by 14 March at 17:00 and includes: a letter from the applicant's parents in English or Portuguese, a short video in English outlining why they wish to join OIS, the applicant's Curriculum Vitae, reports from the previous three years including grades, three recommendation letters (one from Head Teacher/Principal and two from current teachers), and a declaration from the Head Teacher/Principal that the applicant is ranked in the top 10%. The Scholarship Selection Council is composed of one representative from Câmara Municipal de Oeiras (CMO) and at least three OIS representatives. Submissions deadline for Academic Year 2026/27 is Closed.	Scholarships Redbridge offers a Secondary School Scholarship Programme for new students entering Cambridge International Programme (Year 8–12) or French/English Programme (6ème–Terminale). It provides a reduction of 10% to 100% on fees, with potential coverage for some after-school activities, for one academic year subject to renewal. Applications require completing the Scholarship Application Form and submitting supporting documents such as a teacher reference, school reports, motivation letter from the student, and a guardian letter along with any required financial documents. The Board of Directors makes the final decision; renewal depends on continued academic performance, conduct, participation, and evidence of financial need.
Waitlist	Waitlist If there is no available place, the applicant will be placed on the waiting list.	Waitlist —
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