Portugal, Porto
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The well-being, welfare and development of every individual in the school community is a cornerstone of Oporto British School. Each person is confident, secure, well-motivated and happy. Inter-personal relationships are fostered in an environment of mutual trust and respect, and individuals are encouraged to be independent while also working effectively as part of a team. There is an atmosphere of cooperation and friendliness, with a system for recognizing and addressing behaviour concerns. OBS provides a safe, supportive and inclusive environment where staff have pastoral roles and pupils can take on leadership responsibilities to support others.
OBS recognises students with special (or additional) needs as those with learning difficulties or disabilities requiring different or additional support from peers. Provision for SEND and English as an Additional Language (EAL) is coordinated by a dedicated Head of Learning Support (SENDCo). The SENDCo oversees IEPS and pupil passports and leads targeted interventions. EAL support is provided within the school to supplement language development.
English is the language of instruction in all but Modern Foreign Languages and Portuguese History. OBS provides EAL (English as an Additional Language) support within the school to supplement an existing or developing level of language.
OBS promotes positive mental health and wellbeing for the whole school community. Mental health and emotional wellbeing are recognised as crucial factors in learning and achievement. All staff have a role to help everyone learn about maintaining positive mental health and to access help when needed, and the school works to reduce stigma and provide support networks.
OBS recognises its moral and statutory responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of all pupils. There is a dedicated Safeguarding Team and all staff receive annual safeguarding training. Staff are alert to signs of children in need, including those under severe academic pressures, at risk from eating disorders and mental health concerns, and follow procedures to ensure that pupils receive effective support, protection and justice. The Child Protection Policy sets out roles and responsibilities, safeguarding training and procedures for dealing with concerns.
Oporto British School (OBS) is a British international school in Foz do Douro, Porto, educating pupils from age 3 to 18. The curriculum combines the Early Years Foundation Stage and the British framework with Cambridge IGCSE studies and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, offering an international education from Early Years through Secondary. Portuguese is taught in Lower Primary, reflecting the local context. Founded in 1894, OBS sits on a campus overlooking the Douro River. Facilities include a Primary Building with EYFS and Primary classrooms, a Library, IT rooms, and the Farn and Teage Buildings for specialist spaces; Teage Hall hosts music and drama. Campus Development Plan adds a Primary Building with 16 classrooms, a dining room, and a Multipurpose Building with labs and a pastoral hub, plus expanded sports facilities. Notable programs include OBSMUN, robotics and coding, science and arts clubs, School Orchestra, Choir, and the Duke of Edinburgh Award.