Portuguese Boarding Schools
Portugal is rapidly becoming a sought-after destination for families seeking an international education that balances strong academics with a rich cultural experience. Its warm climate, friendly communities, and vibrant heritage make it an inviting place for students from all over the world. Among the country’s international schools, two boarding schools stand out for their distinctive offerings: St. Peter’s International School near Lisbon and King’s College School in Cascais.
Who Should Consider Boarding Schools in Portugal?
Portuguese boarding schools like St. Peter’s and King’s College are ideal for families seeking a balanced education that combines strong academics with rich cultural experiences. They’re especially suited for students who thrive in international communities and enjoy exploring new cultures while maintaining high academic standards.
Whether your child is passionate about the arts, eager to engage in sports, or focused on academic excellence, these schools provide opportunities to grow in all dimensions. The boarding experience itself fosters independence, maturity, and lifelong friendships that often span the globe.
St. Peter’s International School – Where Tradition Meets Innovation
Nestled just a short drive from Lisbon, St. Peter’s International School combines a deep respect for academic excellence with a nurturing environment that encourages creativity and personal growth. The school’s International Baccalaureate (IB) program is known for its rigor and its focus on developing independent, critical thinkers prepared to enter the world’s top universities.
The boarding program is designed to feel like a second home, where students live in comfortable, modern residences and benefit from close support from staff and peers. With a diverse student body, international students quickly find a welcoming community, blending different cultures and backgrounds.
The school’s location near Lisbon means students enjoy access to a vibrant city full of history, art, and innovation, enriching their educational journey beyond the classroom walls. Whether it’s participating in local cultural excursions or engaging in sports and creative arts on campus, students at St. Peter’s experience a well-rounded education that fosters both intellectual and personal growth.
Cost. Depending on the year the total cost is around 40.000€.
King’s College School, Cascais – Academic Excellence by the Sea
For families looking for a dynamic coastal environment, King’s College School in Cascais offers a unique blend of academic rigor and extracurricular adventure. Located just 30 minutes from Lisbon, Cascais is famous for its stunning beaches and international flair.
King’s College delivers a comprehensive curriculum blending the Cambridge International framework with the IB Diploma Program, ensuring students are well-prepared for higher education worldwide. The school’s boarding facilities emphasize comfort and community, with students enjoying private or shared rooms and a range of weekend activities that include water sports, cultural trips, and life skills workshops.
What sets King’s College apart is its commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals. The school encourages students to explore their passions, whether that’s in arts, sports, or leadership, within a supportive and inspiring environment. Students not only achieve academically but also develop confidence and resilience in a truly international setting. The school is new with modern facilities and it will welcome first IBDP students in the school year 2026/27.
Cost. Depending on the year the total cost is around 45.000€.
Why Portugal?
Beyond the excellent schools, Portugal offers a safe, welcoming, and culturally vibrant setting. Its mild climate and beautiful landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for study and personal growth. The country’s rich history and proximity to other European cultural hubs make it an exciting place for students to live and learn. Portugal has become a hotspot for digital nomads and expats, thanks to its great climate, friendly people, relatively low cost of living, and vibrant tech and creative scenes. Cities like Lisbon, Porto, and places along the Algarve coast attract remote workers from all over the world who appreciate the mix of modern amenities and rich cultural heritage. English is widely used everywhere and in schools most staff members are from the UK, USA, Australia and other English speaking countries.
If you’re considering international boarding schools for your child, Portugal offers compelling options that combine academic quality with unique cultural experiences. Both St. Peter’s International School and King’s College School, Cascais, stand out as institutions that support student success in and out of the classroom.
