How to join
our school?

LIS is more than a school focused on academic achievement alone. We believe meaningful learning happens both inside and beyond the classroom, and that education should help young people grow not only as students, but as people, and future leaders.

Alongside strong academics, we encourage learners to develop confidence, curiosity, resilience, leadership and a sense of responsibility towards others. Through inquiry-based learning, communication opportunities, community projects, entrepreneurship and volunteering, students are supported to become active participants in their own learning and to thrive in a changing world.

A sense of belonging is at the heart of life at LIS. We foster a caring, respectful and inclusive environment where learners are known, valued and supported.

Strong relationships between students, teachers and families help create a culture in which children feel safe, confident and ready to learn. We believe that wellbeing and learning go hand in hand, and we work closely with families to support each child’s development.

Starting at a new school is a significant experience, and we take great care to make every learner feel welcome.

Through personalised onboarding, peer connections, teacher support and regular check-ins, we help new students build friendships, gain confidence and quickly become part of the LIS community.

At LIS, being international is more than the passports our families hold. It is the way we learn, connect and grow together every day.

As a diverse international community with English at the heart of school life, we bring together different cultures, perspectives and experiences that enrich learning. Through these daily connections, students develop open-mindedness, empathy and the confidence to navigate an interconnected world, while building the character, resilience and sense of purpose that will stay with them for life.

In many cases, yes. English proficiency is not required for children applying to Form 9 and below.

For students applying to Form 10 and above, an adequate level of English is required, as learners need to be able to access the Cambridge curriculum and examinations. During the admissions process, the learner’s English level is assessed in an oral interview with the coordinator, and a decision about admission is then made.

We support learners who are developing their English so they can build confidence and take an active part in school life. Support is tailored according to the learner’s age, previous educational experience and level of English.

Our aim is to help students strengthen their speaking, listening, reading and writing skills while continuing to engage with classroom learning, make friends and feel fully included in the school community.

LIS follows the Cambridge International pathway and is authorised to offer all stages of the programme: Early Years, Primary, Lower Secondary, IGCSE, and AS/A Level.

The Cambridge curriculum provides a strong academic foundation while encouraging critical thinking, creativity, communication and independent learning. At LIS, we combine this framework with inquiry, real-world learning and opportunities for learners to take ownership of their educational journey.

LIS is a member of ECIS and is authorised by Cambridge Assessment International Education to offer the Cambridge pathway from Early Years through to AS/A Level.

As LIS does not follow the Portuguese national curriculum, it is not accredited by the Portuguese Ministry of Education (MEC). However, LIS is recognised by MEC as an authorised school able to guarantee equivalence between the Cambridge pathway and the Portuguese educational curriculum.

We work closely with a range of trusted partners who help us enrich and strengthen our educational offering every day. From specialist programmes to wider learning opportunities, these collaborations play an important role in the experience we provide for our students.

Take a look at our website footer to discover more about them.

Technology is part of everyday learning at LIS and is used to support teaching, collaboration, research and communication across the school.

LIS operates a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) programme from Form 3 onwards, and students in Forms 3–12 are expected to have a personal device for learning. We also use Kinderpedia as a communication platform between families, teachers and students.

University preparation at LIS is a personalised process. Learners receive guidance in exploring pathways that match their strengths, interests and aspirations, whether they plan to study in Portugal or internationally.

We support students throughout the application process and help them make informed decisions about subject choices, university options and their next steps beyond school.