Compare International Schools in Madeira, Portugal

Rua de Santa Luzia 2, 9050-068 Funchal.

Primary Years Programme (3–11 years); Middle Years Programme (11–16 years); Diploma Programme (16–18 years).

IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme.

The student body represents over 35 nationalities.

An English Boosting Programme supports learners in improving their English. The English language is the language of instruction and the official language of communication with the whole school community. For students entering Grade 10 and above (Diploma Programme), proficiency in English is required.

For MYP and DP, the day runs 08:20–18:00 with Registration 08:20–08:30; Period 1 08:30–09:30; Period 2 09:30–10:30; Break 10:30–11:00; Period 3 11:00–12:00; Lunch 12:00–13:00; Period 4 13:00–14:00; Period 5 14:00–15:00; Period 6 15:00–16:00; Clubs 16:00–17:00; Activities 17:00–18:00. The school premises are open 07:30–18:00.

Our everyday uniforms include a white EY T‑shirt and EY polo shirt; the PYP, MYP and DP ensembles use a white polo shirt, plus a grey hoodie and a bright electric blue winter jacket. Accessories include a dark blue bucket hat and a black sun hat, plus a blue‑and‑white sports T‑shirt, a sports hoodie, and dark blue track shorts and track pants.

On-site meals are prepared in a nut‑free kitchen and include meat, fish, and vegetarian options with sides and desserts. Students have three meals daily: a morning snack, a healthy lunch, and a light afternoon snack; meals rotate on a weekly basis and dietary needs are accommodated. The catering partner is Thomas Franks.

ISS Madeira has four Houses named after Madeira themes: Atlantic, Laurissilva, Levada, and Strelitzia. Each house includes students from different year groups to promote mentorship and teamwork, with inter‑house athletic competitions and plans to extend to academics and social activities. House points contribute to an annual House Cup, and leadership roles such as house captains are available.

ISS Madeira is part of the International Sharing School network, operated by the Sharing Education Group and Dukes Education. It began as Madeira British School in 1980, joined Sharing Education Group in 2013, and gained IB World School status in 2017, offering IB programmes PYP, MYP and DP. English is the official language of instruction, with multilingual support for families.

The school is an IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). English is the official language of instruction. The programme emphasises language acquisition and a transdisciplinary, inquiry- and concept-based approach to learning across a broad range of subjects. Diploma Programme subject groups include Language & Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals & Societies, Sciences, Mathematics and The Arts, with language-specific options (for example English A and Portuguese A) and language acquisition subjects (Portuguese B, German B, French B, Spanish B, and ab initio options). The Diploma Programme core elements (Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, CAS) support independent inquiry, critical thinking and personal growth, helping prepare students for university and beyond. Our learning environments and community structures evolve from PYP to DP, with PYP communities larger and DP spaces more flexible and bookable.

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The Diploma Programme is recognised by top universities worldwide for its holistic approach to learning and preparation for higher education and beyond. It emphasises Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills, research, and critical thinking, with DP graduates typically well prepared for university study and related challenges.

The school fosters a multicultural, caring community with core values of Care, Multiculturalism, and Hospitality. Students engage in a shared community that celebrates individuality while cultivating global citizenship. The learning environment emphasises belonging, collaboration, and kindness toward peers and the wider community. Student mental health is emphasised as important, with schools supporting self-awareness and helping students navigate challenges. Voices from the community describe a supportive, engaging environment where students feel confident expressing themselves.

The school represents over 35 nationalities and offers language support for families in English, Portuguese, Mandarin, Russian, German, French, and Spanish whenever possible. Official communications, emails, online platforms, parent‑teacher meetings, and events are conducted in English. For admissions, a good level of English is not required for Primary School; Middle School students should have a basic understanding of English, with an English Boosting Programme available to help learners improve their skills. For the Diploma Programme, proficiency in English is required.

Mental wellbeing is a central consideration in the school's IB-inspired approach. The school recognises the vital role of helping students develop self-awareness and navigate life challenges. Learning spaces are designed to be flexible and student‑centred, supporting personalised learning, collaboration, and exploration in ways that promote wellbeing. The school's core values—Care, Multiculturalism, and Hospitality—contribute to a supportive environment where students feel valued and secure. Community voices reflect a thriving culture that encourages confidence, curiosity, and open self-expression.

1. Send an Enquiry. Our Admissions Team provides information and guidance at every step. Fill out the form in OpenApply to request information. The school community includes families from over 35 nationalities, and the team supports you throughout the admissions journey.

2. Book a School Tour. Take a 60-minute tour to get to know ISS Madeira in person or online. The Admissions Team can help schedule the tour and answer questions about the community and the IB Programme. The tour offers insight into learning spaces and school culture. The tour helps families understand how ISS Madeira supports student growth.

3. Submit Final Application. Submit the application form on OpenApply and upload the most recent report cards. The Admissions Team reviews submissions and may request additional information. You will receive guidance during the submission process to ensure documents are complete. Once submitted, you will be contacted about the next steps.

4. Assessment & Interview. After submission, an interview will be conducted. An assessment may be requested. The Admissions Team coordinates scheduling for interviews and any tests. The process helps determine fit for the IB Programme and grade level.

5. Confirmation of Enrolment. Enrolments are only confirmed once the school confirms it has received payment for all invoiced fees. This ensures the enrolment is finalized. You will receive written confirmation once payment is acknowledged. The Admissions Team remains available to assist with any fee-related questions.

The International School of Madeira is located in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal. The address is Quinta Martins, Rua da Levada de Santa Luzia 40, 9050-219 Funchal, Portugal. The school serves children from ages 3 to 10 through its Infant School (ages 3–5) and Cambridge Primary (ages 6–10). It offers Cambridge Early Years and Cambridge Primary curricula with bilingual English-Portuguese instruction.

Infant School (Nursery to Reception; ages 3–5) and Primary School (Grade 1 to Grade 4; ages 6–10).

International day school offering Cambridge Early Years and Cambridge Primary curricula with bilingual English-Portuguese instruction.

Infant School runs September to July; Primary School runs September to June.

Meals are provided for students; there is a meals menu.

Owned and governed by ISM Education Unipessoal LDA, trading as The International School of Madeira.

The Infant School follows the Cambridge Early Years (EYFS) curriculum for ages 3 to 6, organized around six curriculum areas and designed to support bilingual and multilingual learners. It supports learners whatever their level of English when they begin and can offer a bilingual or multilingual approach if home languages differ from English. The Primary School follows the Cambridge Primary Curriculum for ages 6 to 10, providing a well-rounded education across more than ten subjects, including English, mathematics and science. Cambridge Primary English strengthens reading, writing, speaking and listening, while Cambridge Primary Mathematics builds mathematical understanding and problem-solving skills. The curriculum is highly flexible, allowing ISM to adapt it to the learning environment, cultural context and a Portuguese program, with enrichment and broader development opportunities.

Enrichment provision provides additional support in all classes while also challenging students who demonstrate advanced understanding through targeted curriculum interventions.

Pastoral care is at the heart of ISM's Infant School, providing emotional and social support to help children settle in. A holistic approach supports each child's social, emotional, and cultural development, helping them gain confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of self. The Cambridge Early Years curriculum is child-centred and play-based, designed to develop at each child's own pace and focuses on social and emotional development. Classrooms and outdoor spaces encourage collaboration, creativity, and exploration. Cambridge Early Years also supports bilingual and multilingual learners, making it accessible to children from diverse language backgrounds.

Enrichment provision provides additional support in all classes. Targeted curriculum interventions foster mastery of key skills and concepts.

It supports learners, whatever their level of English when they begin the programme. A bilingual or multilingual approach is offered if learners have a home language other than English. The Cambridge Early Years Curriculum also supports bilingual and multilingual learners.

Pastoral care is at the heart of ISM's Infant School, providing emotional and social support to help children settle in. The pastoral program uses thoughtful guidance and structured routines and maintains open communication with families. A holistic approach supports social, emotional, and cultural development. This helps children gain confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of self.

1. Begin the enrolment process by completing the online application form for each child. If you are enrolling multiple children, submit one form for each child. After submission, you will be contacted by the admissions team to continue the application process. The admissions process seeks learners who demonstrate a positive attitude, a commitment to learning, and a willingness to contribute to school life. 2. Applications may be submitted up to two years in advance. Availability beyond Reception depends on student withdrawals, making early entry into Nursery highly recommended. This process ensures families plan ahead for start dates. Prospective families are invited to explore ISM and discover the enriching experiences that await their child. 3. To begin the enrolment process, complete the form below. If you are seeking to enrol multiple children, submit one form for each child. After submission, you will be contacted by our admissions team to continue the application process. The enrolment form collects parent and child information including parent title, name, email, phone, child name, date of birth, desired start date, and how you heard about ISM.

Madeira (Funchal), Portugal. The Madeira hub is part of Brave Generation Academy's Portugal network, with multiple hubs across the country.

Secondary Education with British (IGCSEs and A-Levels), American, and Portuguese+ curricula; learners can study online or at local Hubs, progressing at their own pace.

Hybrid international school offering online study and in-person Hub experiences; curricula are British, US, and Portuguese+ and are accredited.

Guidance from expert Learning Coaches; personalised learning plans.

British, US, and Portuguese+ curricula.

Secondary education offers British (IGCSEs and A-Levels), American, and Portuguese+ curricula. The learning model is hybrid, with online study and co-learning Hub experiences guided by Learning Coaches. The Portuguese+ track uses all learning materials and assessments in Portuguese, includes preparation for and completion of Exames Nacionais, and meets requirements for direct entry to Portuguese universities while delivering instruction in English-speaking Hubs, fostering both Portuguese and English communication. Higher Education includes Unique Pathway Degree Programmes in Business Management, Computing Science, Hospitality, Sports, and more, providing a university diploma and practical skills.

Unique Pathway Degree Programmes offer degrees in Business Management, Computing Science, Hospitality, Sports, and more, with a university diploma and real-world skills, enabling progression to universities worldwide.

Brave Generation Academy offers flexible, accredited secondary education across British, American, and Portuguese+ curriculums. Local Learning Hubs provide community and support with a global curriculum, blending in-person guidance with digital access. Learners receive personalised support with guidance from Learning Coaches and hub-based staff. The hybrid model allows learners to pursue their interests while staying connected with peers and educators. The approach focuses on developing skills for higher education and life through collaborative projects and real-world application.

All instruction, content, and assessments are in Portuguese for the Portuguese+ curriculum, while learners benefit from a fully English-speaking environment within their local BGA Hub.

Remote Invigilation exams provide a flexible, supportive exam setting that can improve well-being and performance by allowing learners to sit certain Pearson exams from home under online supervision.

The Madeira hub of Brave Generation Academy (BGA) is part of the Portugal locations. Madeira (Funchal) is listed as an Island hub in Portugal. The school uses a hybrid model with online learning accessible 24/7 and offline Hub experiences guided by Learning Coaches. The British, US, and Portuguese+ curricula are accredited and internationally recognized, with qualifications accepted by universities worldwide. The Portuguese+ curriculum offers learning materials and assessments in Portuguese, includes preparation for and completion of National Examinations, meets direct-entry requirements to Portuguese universities while allowing admission to institutions worldwide, and is delivered within English-speaking Hubs to develop both Portuguese and English communication skills. BGA Online provides the same education remotely if Hub locations do not suit. Download the eBook to learn more about the learning model, Hub life, and the role of technology in the model. The school provides an admissions process and information on fees via its Portugal pages. The contact number is +351 913 578 362, with a WhatsApp chat option. Address: Av. 25 de Abril, 901 Cave, Esq., 2750-515 Cascais. The page also lists multiple other locations across Portugal, indicating a nationwide network of Hubs plus Online options.

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