International Primary School (Years 1-6)

The overarching aim for English is to promote high standards of language and literacy by equipping pupils with a strong command of the spoken and written word, and to develop their love of literature through widespread reading for enjoyment. We aim to ensure that all pupils:

·         read easily, fluently and with good understanding

·         develop the habit of reading widely and often, for both pleasure and information

·         acquire a wide vocabulary, an understanding of grammar and knowledge of linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language

·         appreciate our rich and varied literary heritage

·         write clearly, accurately and coherently, adapting their language and style in and for a range of contexts, purposes and audiences

·         use discussion in order to learn; they should be able to elaborate and explain clearly their understanding and ideas

·         are competent in the arts of speaking and listening, making formal presentations, demonstrating to others and participating in debate.

Our Mathematics curriculum focuses on principles, patterns, systems, functions and relationships so that learners can apply their mathematical knowledge and develop a holistic understanding of the subject. We provide many "real-life" contexts for the children to develop and apply their maths skills. Pupils are encouraged to solve problems, both collaboratively and independently, and are provided with a rich learning environment that allows them to experiment with different mathematical ways of thinking. 

We aim to ensure all pupils:

·         become fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics, including through varied and frequent practice with increasingly complex problems over time, so that pupils develop conceptual understanding and the ability to recall and apply knowledge rapidly and accurately

·         reason mathematically by following a line of inquiry, conjecturing relationships and generalisations, and developing an argument, justification or proof using mathematical language

·         can solve problems by applying their mathematics to a variety of routine and non-routine problems with increasing sophistication, including breaking down problems into a series of simpler steps and persevering in seeking solutions

Our science curriculum aims to ensure that all pupils:

·         develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics

·         develop understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science through different types of science inquiries that help them to answer scientific questions about the world around them

·         are equipped with the scientific knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of science, today and for the future.

The curriculum is a sequence of knowledge and concepts where they learn to describe associated processes and key characteristics in common language, and become familiar with, and use, technical terminology accurately and precisely. They build up an extended specialist vocabulary. They also learn to apply their mathematical knowledge to their understanding of science, including collecting, presenting and analysing data.

Children take part in investigative scientific activities using the Ginn Star Science Scheme. Our programme benefits from the resources provided by our Secondary School Science Department and is guided by creative and committed educators. One of the annual highlights for our young scientists is the Halloween Science Spooktacular show; the annual science fair run by senior students is also popular with primary children as they get to mix with older students and to learn from experiments they design.

Additional support focuses on rapidly building English language skills. Students with limited English proficiency are integrated into the class routine as much as possible, to help develop oral skills through interaction and participation.

Class teachers incorporate history, geography, information technology, art, design technology and drama into the curriculum, while specialist teachers contribute lessons in music, languages and physical education.

Music is a universal language that embodies one of the highest forms of creativity. Our high-quality music education engages and inspires our students to develop a love of music and their talent as musicians, and so increase their self-confidence, creativity and sense of achievement.  Weekly music lessons build toward student performances for the wider community, including weekly assemblies, the annual carol concert, end-of-year productions and the school musical. Nobel Algarve British International School is a Royal Schools of Music examination centre, and children from the age of six can study a range of instruments to grade 8. Our music teachers from the Instrumental Programme a bespoke programme for our students run sessions at both Lagoa and Almancil campuses.

A high-quality physical education curriculum inspires all pupils to succeed and excel in competitive sport and other physically-demanding activities. Students participate in a broad range of athletic activities, including gymnastics, games, team sports and outdoor and adventure tasks which build character and help to embed values such as fairness and respect.

Learning Portuguese provides an opening to other cultures and foster students’ curiosity deepening their understanding of the world. Taught in ability groups from Year 1, Portuguese instruction provides the foundation for learning further languages, equipping pupils to study and work in other countries.

Available for children who need it, our Special Education Team can provide individualised support to ensure each student performs to his or her potential. English support is also available.