Portugal, Madeira
Let the school know you're thinking of applying — they can share their prerequisites and help you through the process.
It's best to ask — circumstances can change at any time.
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.
International Sharing School Madeira (ISS Madeira) is an IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme. English is the official language of instruction, and ISS Madeira serves a community representing over 35 nationalities. The IB curriculum uses an inquiry- and concept-based approach across subjects, with emphasis on language development. The Diploma Programme includes Language & Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals & Societies, Sciences, Mathematics and The Arts, with options such as English A, Portuguese A, and language acquisition subjects including Portuguese B, German B, French B and Spanish B. The DP core elements—Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge and CAS—encourage independent inquiry and personal growth, preparing students for university. The school's learning environments are flexible and student-centered, evolving from PYP to DP, with spaces such as Mountain Top, Cave, Campire, Watering Hole, Hands-On and Movement. ISS Madeira originated as Madeira British School in 1980 and was recognised as an IB World School in 2017.