Aspire International School

Located at Rua Manuel Teixeira Gomes, 8135-106 Almancil, Algarve, Portugal. Aspire International School Algarve sits between Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago in the Algarve. The campus serves an international community with programmes from Preschool to A level.

Preschool ages 3 to 5; Primary ages 5 to 11; Secondary ages 11 to 14; GCSE/iGCSE ages 14 to 16; A level ages 16 to 18

Independent international school

AIS Algarve follows the British National Curriculum across all year groups. Preschool uses the Early Years Foundation Stage with Pre-Nursery, Nursery and Reception, weekly Portuguese language exposure, and Jolly Phonics for early literacy. Primary education is based on the English National Curriculum, with a weekly Portuguese language focus, small class sizes, and specialist teachers in Art, ICT, PE, Performing Arts and Music, plus EAL support. The Secondary programme follows the British National Curriculum, guiding students from Key Stage 3 through IGCSEs and A levels, with core subjects including English, Maths, Science and Humanities; preparation for iGCSEs is provided toward Year 9. GCSE/IGCSE and A level offerings are described on dedicated pages; AIS GCSE uses Pearson Edexcel, and A levels are offered with Edexcel accreditation. The curriculum emphasizes PSHE and Mindfulness and includes a balanced programme of sports, arts, and clubs.

The school has small class sizes and personalised attention, with teachers able to mentor each student.

The school prepares students for higher education with university preparation support and careers guidance; it aims to help students gain entry to top universities worldwide through its IGCSE and A level pathways.

Student wellbeing is central to AIS. Pastoral care is a core part of school life, with staff providing guidance and support to help students feel safe and valued. The school supports new students to settle in, helping them build friendships and feel comfortable in their learning environment.

AIS supports students with a range of learning needs, with teachers working closely with families to identify appropriate strategies and provide tailored support; additional support can be provided to help students progress.

English is the main language of instruction; additional language support is available where needed, particularly in the early years. AIS offers instruction in English and Portuguese, with additional modern languages available. Speech and language therapy and EAL support are provided where needed.

Student wellbeing is central; pastoral care supports students' mental, social, and emotional development, with staff available to speak with students about concerns and to promote a safe, respectful environment.

Pastoral care and wellbeing policies promote a safe environment, with clear procedures to address concerns about behaviour or bullying; bullying is not accepted and is addressed promptly.

1. Families can begin the admissions process by getting in touch with the AIS admissions team. They answer initial questions and guide you through the next steps, including arranging a visit to the school.
2. You can arrange a visit through Schedule a Tour. AIS also offers up to three free trial days for students prior to enrolment.
3. Initially, AIS asks for basic information about your child's age, previous schooling, and any specific learning needs; the admissions team will guide you through the rest of the process step by step.
4. AIS accepts children from Preschool through to Secondary and Sixth Form. English is the main language of instruction, with additional language support available where needed. The school is non-selective and does not conduct assessments before enrolment; if obstacles to learning exist, please notify so appropriate support can be provided.