International Preparatory School (E.P.P.I. Lda)

The International Preparatory School (IPS) is a co-educational day school offering British primary education to children from two years to thirteenyears. It is approved by the British Service Children's Education Authority (SCEA). The National Curriculum Keystage 1 and 2 tests are assessed and verified by the relevant authorities. The school is also a member of the Stichting 'Nederlands Onderwijs in het Buitenland' (NOB) and the CITO test is administered. IPS serves the needs of the international community from embassies to multinational companies. The students represent 30 nationalities, 60% of whom are native English speakers. Class size averages 18 students and all pre-school and infant classes have two assistants.

The full standard range of subjects is taught and much emphasis is given to the multicultural nature of the school when researching topics for geography and history. Computers are used throughout the curriculum; all Key Stage Two computers are networked and have access to the Internet. Provision is made for EAL and special needs students. Portuguese and the recorder are taught; French is an additional subject from Years 5, 6 and 7. There is a purpose-built gymnasium and swimming in the school's own pool is compulsory for all classes. A small but comprehensive library is used extensively.

The school is situated in Carcavelos, halfway between Lisbon and Cascais with good road and rail access from either direction. Door to door transportation is also available.

The school day is from 09:00 until 15:30. Milk and hot lunches are available.

The school year runs from September to July with Christmas, Easter and half-term breaks.

Admission depends on an interview with the parents and the child.