Selecting a school in Portugal can seem like the most stressful aspect of moving with children. Online resources seldom describe everyday life as it truly is, and each family’s priorities vary. This guide concentrates on practical questions and a straightforward decision framework — particularly for families preparing a move to Lisbon.
First: Clarify what “good” looks like for your family
Before evaluating options, establish your nonnegotiables. Many choosing errors occur when families compare everything simultaneously without a clear set of priorities.
- Commute: daily travel time matters more than you realize.
- Curriculum: British, American, IB, or local offerings.
- Language environment: the language your child is exposed to throughout the day.
- Support: learning assistance, ESL support, pastoral care.
- Culture fit: the school's structure, level of discipline, and communication style.
Selecting Schools Without Feeling Overwhelmed
A practical method that suits expat families well:
A straightforward process
- Begin with location to shortlist. In Lisbon, commuting may turn a decent school into a daily hassle.
- Verify openings and the admissions timeline. Waiting lists are common.
- Inquire about actual classroom conditions. class sizes, staff turnover, and how the school communicates.
- Inquire about support. ESL / learning support / transition assistance for new arrivals.
- Schedule a single visit (or virtual tour) for each finalist. Rely more on what you observe than glossy brochures.
Pro tip: Make a one-page checklist and rate each school after a visit. It helps avoid the “everything feels identical” issue.
Important Questions to Ask Schools
These questions typically uncover more than generic “tell us about your program” discussions:
- What is the typical class size for this age?
- How do you handle new students mid-year?
- What methods do teachers use to communicate with parents (weekly updates, apps, email)?
- What does the day actually look like (start/end times, breaks, homework expectations)?
- How do you support kids who are anxious or adjusting to a new country?
- What is the policy for language support (ESL) if needed?
- How is time spent indoors/outdoors and how is heat managed in hot months?
Costs & Logistics (The Part Nobody Loves)
Choosing a school isn't just about tuition. Consider the complete daily cost:
Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
- Choosing by reputation alone: the day-to-day schedule matters more.
- Overlooking commute time: it affects sleep, mood, and family life.
- Assuming “international” means the same everywhere: it doesn't.
- Not asking about support: transitions are real for kids.
- Waiting too long: admissions timelines can be tighter than anticipated.
Key Takeaway
The ideal school is typically the one that matches your family's actual routine: proximity, support, and everyday comfort for your child — not the one that boasts the slickest marketing.
If you’d like help sorting priorities for Lisbon (commute, routines, questions to ask), get in touch — or call +351 912 345 678.