Portuguese International Programme (2º Ciclo)

Building bilingual proficiency and academic excellence

OUR APPROACH

We consider our 2º Ciclo classes as a bridge between Primary School and Secondary School, which aims to meet the special developmental needs of early adolescence. Young teens are not simply older primary school students or young secondary school students. There are very important changes that occur during this time of life that require a unique approach to education.

The 2º Ciclo programme is designed to support students during a critical phase of their education. We focus on fostering independent thinking, academic rigour, and bilingual fluency through a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. In line with this vision, our tailored provision for our Year 5 and Year 6 students includes:

National Curriculum, delivered through a bilingual, flexible, interdisciplinary approach that fosters active learning, engagement, and critical thinking.
A secure environment focused on personal, social, and emotional development, where each student’s voice is respected and valued.
Inquiry-Based and collaborative learning: students explore real-world issues, promoting curiosity, critical thinking, and teamwork through collaborative projects.
Intercultural education: lessons incorporate global perspectives, nurturing empathy, and preparing students to engage with diverse cultures.
Ideal-sized groups of learners: classes are made up of approximately 20 students, ensuring individual attention and effective collaboration.

CURRICULUM

Languages
- Portuguese: Strengthening reading, writing, and communication skills in Portuguese.
- English: Instruction is carefully tailored to meet the diverse needs of both native speakers and students learning English as an additional language. At this level, students engage with the Cambridge International Education curriculum for English, which provides a structured framework to support language acquisition and academic growth.
- French: Students also have the opportunity to learn or further develop French as a third language. With two lessons per week, pupils are grouped according to their proficiency level to ensure personalised support and steady progress in their language learning.
- We follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) to guide our language instruction. Using its descriptors, we aim to develop pupils’ communicative skills in alignment with the A band (A1 to A2 levels) for learners aged 7 to 11. For those demonstrating advanced capabilities, progression towards early B1 proficiency is encouraged, empowering students to achieve higher linguistic mastery.

Mathematics: Building upon mathematical concepts, problem-solving, and critical thinking, mathematics continues following a bilingual approach, with classes alternating between Portuguese and English.
Science and Nature: Exploring deeper scientific principles and natural phenomena, with classes taught in English.
Social Studies: Delving into history, geography, and civics with greater depth, in Portuguese language.
Physical Education: Promoting physical fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Visual and Expressive Arts: Fostering creativity and artistic expression, with Arts in Portuguese and Music in English.

SCHEDULES

School hours for our students in the 2º ciclo are from 8:30 to 16:00, Monday to Friday