International Schools | Liberty Real Estate
‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world’
– Nelson Mandela
Algarve offers an outstanding quality of life for families. Combined with the growing adoption of remotely working by many companies, this has led to a significant increase in families who choose to relocate to the region.
When relocating, it is essential to explore the schooling options available in the Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo areas. The first decision is often whether to choose an international or a state school; however, it’s worth noting that international schools are highly sought after and frequently have waiting lists. A useful starting point is the International Schools Database (www.international-schools-database.com), though it is always advisable to contact each school directly to confirm availability from the outset.
To assist with your research, we have compiled an overview of some of the leading international schools in the area:
Aspire International School
Founded in December 2019, Aspire International School is a small and close-knit institution, offering reduced class sizes and a tailored approach to learning. The school provides a high-quality academic education, complemented by a strong focus on the arts, sports, and mindfulness. Conveniently located, it is the nearest international school to both Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo.
Location:
Almancil - See Location
Situated roughly 2 kilometres from Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo, the school is just a five-minute drive away.
Ages:
Children aged 3 to 18 are taught from Year 1 through to Year 13.
Curriculum:
From Years 1 to 6, lessons are delivered equally in English and Portuguese, following an adapted version of the British curriculum.
Years 7 to 13 follow the British National Curriculum under UK Pearson Edexcel.
The school is a fully licensed Pearson Edexcel Centre, offering both IGCSE and A-Level qualifications.
Mission:
"Our objective at AIS is to raise the standard of education in the Algarve with a balanced curriculum, from academic subjects to sports and the arts. Our focus is on educating the ‘whole child’ and we take the time to listen to suggestions for improvements."
School Hours:
Classes take place from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with after-school clubs running from 3:45 to 4:45 p.m.
Average Class Size:
Class sizes average around 12 students, allowing for close attention and a more tailored learning experience.
The Financials (2024/2025)
Annual Fee:
| Pre-school | €6595 |
| Years 1 & 2 (KS1) | €7550 |
| Years 3 to 6 (KS2) | €9295 |
| Years 7 to 9 (KS3) | €11,995 |
| Year 10 (KS4) | €13,495 |
| Year 11 (KS4) | €13,495 |
| Year 12 (KS5) | €13,995 |
| Year 13 (KS5) | €13,995 |
School Lunches:
Lunch is available for €5 per day, with a selection of snacks and drinks also offered for purchase.
Bus Service
Not currently available.
Contact:
Website: www.aspireinternational.school
Tel: +351 289 392 238
Email:learn@aspireinternational.school
Bright International School
Bright International School, formerly known as Eupheus, is a modern, state-of-the-art institution that opened in 2019. Fully accredited by Cambridge International, it offers micro-classes and follows the International Primary Curriculum for pre-school and primary levels, taught entirely in English. Emphasising an individualised approach, each student is provided with an iPad to support contemporary, 21st-century learning. The classrooms and learning spaces are ergonomically designed, complemented by eco-friendly, interactive outdoor play and recreation areas set within secure gardens.
Location:
Loulé - See Location
Located about 19 kilometres from Quinta do Lago, the journey takes approximately 17 minutes.
Ages:
Children aged 3 to 14 are taught across Years 1 to 9, providing a smooth academic progression through the early and middle years.
Curriculum
The curriculum is accredited by Cambridge Assessment International Education, allowing the school to offer its recognised academic programmes.
Mission:
"With our core values — Care, Multiculturalism and Hospitality — we create a community consisting of involved parents, motivated teachers and bright students."
School Hours:
The school operates from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., followed by a Games Club from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Average Class Size:
Classes have an average of 18 students, with a ratio of roughly 7 students per teacher, ensuring personalised guidance and support.
The Financials (2024/2025)
| Registration Fee: | €1000 |
Annual Fees:
| Pre-Reception and Reception | €8250 |
| Year 1 | €10,150 |
| Years 2 & 3 | €11,350 |
| Year 4 & 5 | €12,800 |
| Years 6 to 8 | €15,900 |
School Lunches
No school lunches are provided.
Bus Service
Not currently available.
Contact:
Website: https://bright-is.com
Tel: (+351) 289 154 800
Email: office@bright-is.com
Colégio Internacional de Vilamoura Algarve – CIV
Founded in 1984, Vilamoura International School spans 18,500 m² of recreational space and offers a truly multilingual environment. The school places strong emphasis on early language learning — including Portuguese, English, French and Russian — as well as on research programmes, mathematical development, and the promotion of the arts, sports, democratic principles, and humanistic educational values.
Location:
Vilamoura - See Location
Located approximately 16 kilometres from Quinta do Lago, the journey takes around 23 minutes.
Ages:
The school accommodates students aged 3 to 18.
Curriculum:
The curriculum offers two pathways: the British/Cambridge International Curriculum or the Portuguese National Curriculum.
Mission:
‘CIV offers its students a rich and diverse cultural environment, an educational programme focused on the development of cognitive and socio-affective abilities, in an international and multilingual environment. At CIV we believe that students are the leaders of their own learning, therefore the educational team establishes strategies to assist each child to achieve academic and personal excellence'.
School Hours:
The school day runs from 9:00 a.m. to 4:05 p.m. or 4:50 p.m., depending on the age group. An After-School Club is available for pupils up to Year 4 after 4:05 p.m.
Average Class Size:
Classes typically have around 23 students, providing a balanced environment for both individual attention and group learning.
The Financials (2024/2025)
Registration Fee:
| Nursery to Reception | €250 (non refundable) |
| Year 1 to 13 | €300 (non refundable) |
English Side Annual Fee:
| Nursery and Reception | €6400 |
| Year 1 to 4 | €7820 |
| Year 5 to 6 | €8930 |
| Year 7 to 9 | €9660 |
| Year 10 to 11 | €11,500 |
| Year 12 - IB | €13,165 |
| Year 13 | €12,415 |
Portuguese Side Annual Fee:
| Nursery and Reception | €5385 |
| 1 - Ages 1 to 4 | €5725 |
| 2 - Ages 5 to 6 | €6040 |
| 3 - Ages 7 to 9 | €6145 |
| Secondary - Ages 10 to 13 | €6630 |
School Lunches
School lunches are available at an additional cost, ranging from €5.80 to €8.50 per day, depending on the student’s age.
Bus Service
A bus service operates from Almancil, Loulé, Faro, Olhão, Vilamoura, Albufeira, and Messines, with routes reviewed and updated annually to meet students’ needs.
Contact:
Website: www.civ.pt/en
Tel: (+351) 289 303 280
Email: colegiodevilamoura@civ.pt
Educan
Nestled in the historic heart of Loulé within a beautifully restored 19th-century building, Educan is a bilingual learning centre with a welcoming, family-like atmosphere, offering a “new approach to education.” Core subjects are taught in the mornings (9 a.m.–1 p.m.), allowing families greater flexibility, while afternoon clubs and tutoring sessions are available to both pupils and external students.
Location:
Loulé - See Location
Situated about 10 kilometres from Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo, the campus is roughly a 17-minute drive from both areas.
Ages:
The school caters for students aged 3 to 16, covering Years 1 to 10.
Curriculum:
The curriculum is based on an adapted version of the British system, with students preparing for IGCSE qualifications through the Pearson Edexcel examination board. The school is officially recognised as a Pearson Edexcel Approved Centre.
Mission:
"At EDUCAN, Algarve, students receive so much more than an ordinary education. We pride ourselves on creating a unique, innovative and exciting environment that embraces all types of learners and promotes growth, both academically and personally. Students and families are introduced into a dynamic and supportive community. Our aim is to develop students' knowledge, autonomy and responsibility based on their objectives, desire and pace. This is accomplished through personalised learning, with small groups, focusing on their needs, and caring for their understanding of the world and themselves."
School Hours:
Morning lessons run from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by afternoon clubs from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. and 4:00 to 5:30 p.m.
Students can choose from a wide range of activities, including Portuguese, Dutch, Mandarin, Homework Club, Mindfulness, Emotional Development, Science, Art, French, Russian, and Computing.
Average Class Size:
Class sizes range from 6 to 8 students, allowing for highly personalised attention and support.
The Financials (2024/2025)
Annual Fee – Morning Lessons: 09:00 - 13:00
| Years 1 to 2 (KS1) | €6115 |
| Years 3 to 6 (KS2) | €6845 |
| Years 7 to 9 (KS3) | €7614 |
| Years 10 to 11 (KS4) | €8182 |
Afternoon Clubs - 14:00 - 15:30
| Homework Club | €180 per term (1 x 90min club per week) |
| Club | €255 per term (1 x per week) |
| Kids Club | €210 per term |
| Club Pack - 5 days per week: 3 x Clubs + 2 x Homework | €750 per term |
School Lunches
Not provided.
Bus Service
Not currently available.
Contact:
Website: www.educan-algarve.com
Tel: (+351) 289 422 148
Email: admin@educan-algarve.com
Nobel Algarve, Lagoa
Established in 1972, Nobel Algarve – British International School in Lagoa is the oldest and largest international school in the Algarve, welcoming pupils from Early Years to Secondary. Offering both day and boarding options, it is recognised by local and international families alike for providing a well-rounded and high-quality education.
The curriculum follows an adapted version of the English National Curriculum, preparing students for globally recognised qualifications through the Cambridge and Pearson examination boards at IGCSE and A-Level. Alongside this, the school also offers a national section accredited by the Portuguese Ministry of Education, creating a genuinely bilingual and multicultural learning environment.
Since joining the Globeducate network in 2019 — one of the world’s leading groups of premium bilingual and international schools — Nobel Algarve has strengthened its international links, giving pupils access to exchange programmes, collaborative projects and cross-cultural learning with sister schools across Europe.
The Lagoa campus combines modern classrooms with extensive outdoor and sports facilities, including football and tennis courts, athletics and cross-country tracks, a gym, and even a karate dojo. Complementing this flagship campus, a newer site in Almancil — near Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo — expands the school’s accessibility and presence in the central Algarve.
Location:
Lagoa - See Location
Located around 47 kilometres from Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo, the campus is approximately a 38-minute drive away.
Ages:
The school welcomes students aged 3 to 18, covering Years 1 to 13.
Curriculum
The bilingual Pre-School, for ages 3 to 6, teaches in both English and Portuguese, with a teacher and assistant in each class.
From 6 to 18, the National section follows the Portuguese Ministry of Education curriculum, while the International section (5 to 18) offers an adapted English National Curriculum leading to IGCSE and A-Level exams. Lessons are delivered in English with additional language support, and all students also study Portuguese.
Mission:
'To prepare students to shape tomorrow through excellence. Our goal is to provide all students with an exceptional international education with a global perspective, rooted in British educational values, in a safe, welcoming and happy international environment'.
School Hours:
The school operates from
- 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for Pre-School,
- 9:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for Primary
- 9:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for Secondary.
After-school, activities take place from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. or 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Average Class Size:
Classes typically have around 16 students, ensuring a supportive and engaging learning environment.
The Financials (2024/2025)
| Registration Fee | €280 (one off non-refundable) |
| Enrolment Fee | €330 (non-refundable) |
| Deposit | €400 (refundable) |
Annual Fee:
| Bilingual Pre-school | €5880 |
| Year 1 | €8100 |
| Year 2 to 6 | €10,740 |
| Year 7 to 9 | €13,740 |
| Year 10 | €14,130 |
| Year 11 | €13,640 |
| Year 12 and 13 (A-Level) | €18,016 |
School Lunch:
Lunch fees are €1,410 per year for pre-school children aged three to five, where meals are compulsory, and €1,530 per year for students in Years 1 to 13.
School Bus:
A school transport service operates across the western Algarve, running from Faro through to Praia da Luz.
Contact:
Website: www.nobelalgarve.com
Tel: (+351) 282 342 547
Nobel Algarve, Almancil
Opened in 2020, Nobel’s Almancil campus is a modern, purpose-built school designed to blend innovation with tranquillity. Centred around a Feng Shui–inspired courtyard and framed by expansive green spaces, it offers a calm and stimulating environment for learning. The next stage of development was set for completion in 2022, with a further phase planned to introduce dedicated facilities for Secondary School students in the near future.
Location:
Almancil – See Location
Located just 6 kilometres from Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo, the campus is only a 10-minute drive away.
Ages:
The school welcomes children aged 3 to 18, covering academic Years 1 to 11
Curriculum:
The school follows the English National Curriculum, with mindfulness deeply integrated into its teaching approach.
Mission:
"Almancil campus offers a broad, balanced curriculum. We aim to stimulate and motivate, nurturing your child’s natural curiosity while developing a problem-solving mindset. Our individualised approach will ensure your child discovers what success means to them."
School Hours:
Classes run from 9:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., followed by a range of after-school activities from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Average Class Size:
Class sizes average around 16 students, allowing for a more personalised learning experience.
The Financials (2024/2025)
| Registration Fee | €280 (one off non-refundable) |
| Enrolment Fee | €330 (non-refundable) |
| Deposit | €400 (refundable) |
Annual Fee:
| Bilingual Pre-school | €7410 |
| Year 1 | €9270 |
| Years 2 to 3 | €11,040 |
| Years 4 to 6 | €12,000 |
| Years 7 to 9 | €13,410 |
| Years 10 to 11 | €14,940 |
School Lunch:
Lunch fees are €1,410 per year for pre-school children aged three to five, where meals are compulsory, and €1,530 per year for students from Year 1 onwards.
Bus Service
Not currently available
Contact:
Website: www.nobelalgarve.com
Tel: +351 282 342 547
