Quick summary of key school information
School details
Number of students |
515 |
Number of nationalities represented in the school |
47 |
Most common nationality |
French and Portuguese |
Ratio of local students to international students |
1:3 |
Native English, French, and Portuguese speaking teachers |
Yes |
Language support for students not fluent in English, French, and Portuguese |
Yes |
Additional language classes offered by the school |
Spanish |
Max. number of students per class |
21 |
Average number of students per class |
15 |
Does the school employ teaching assistants? |
Yes |
Use of technology in the classroom |
At Redbridge International School, we are very intentional about how we use technology in the classroom, with a strong focus on balancing digital exposure and hands-on, experiential learning. Firstly, we have a strict no-phone policy across all year groups, regardless of age. Students who bring a phone to school are required to deposit it in a designated box upon arrival and can only collect it at the end of the school day. We are highly conscious of screen use, especially in the early years. Beginning in Year 1, students have occasional supervised access to screens, primarily for project-based research. Devices such as computers or iPads are not readily available in classrooms; instead, they must be pre-booked in advance by teachers for specific learning activities. This helps ensure that technology use remains purposeful and aligned with the learning objectives. From Middle School onwards, students engage more regularly with technology as they progress in either Technology or Digital Literacy classes, depending on the curriculum. This structured approach supports them in developing critical digital skills in a mindful and age-appropriate way. Our approach to technology is rooted in our values of intentionality, responsibility, and balanced learning, ensuring that digital tools enhance—rather than dominate—the educational experience. |
Is the school ready to use virtual classrooms when needed? (e.g. teaching lessons online if the school is closed, e.g. during COVID-19 closures) |
At Redbridge International School, we prioritise in-person learning, as we believe it offers the most meaningful and effective educational experience for our students. However, we are fully prepared to switch to virtual learning when necessary, such as in the case of emergencies or exceptional circumstances, like the recent COVID-19 pandemic. For our secondary school students, we have systems in place, including Google Classroom and Pronote, which enable us to communicate effectively, assign work, and support remote learning. These platforms allow teachers to maintain continuity in teaching and provide students with access to lessons, resources, and feedback, even when they are unable to attend school physically. While virtual classroom technology is not part of our regular practice, we are well-equipped and ready to implement it swiftly and effectively should the need arise. |
Do students practice religion at the school? What religion? |
No |
External examinations or assessments available |
At Redbridge International School, students begin their academic journey by following the Cambridge English curriculum from the Early Years, laying a strong foundation in language and literacy from the start. We follow the Cambridge International Education pathway and are proud to be Cambridge examiners. As part of our expanding academic offering, we will introduce the IGCSE programme from September 2025. In addition, students will have the opportunity to pursue the French Baccalauréat International, and from 2026, we will also offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). These internationally recognised qualifications reflect our commitment to academic excellence and preparing students for success in universities around the world. |
Do teachers assign homework to their students? |
At Redbridge International School, we believe in promoting a well-balanced lifestyle for everyone in our community—students, parents, and teachers alike. In the Lower Primary, our focus is on fostering a love of reading. While we do not assign formal written homework at this stage, we do have the expectation that children will read daily with their families. We also warmly encourage any home-based extension activities or projects that families wish to pursue, and we are always happy to support them. In the Upper Primary, students may occasionally be given research tasks or assignments. These are designed to help them begin developing key academic skills and to prepare them for upcoming topics. Any home learning at this stage is purposeful, meaningful, and aimed at supporting their classroom experience. From Secondary School onwards, regular home learning is introduced with the intention of helping students build essential study skills such as time management, prioritisation, independence, and methodology. Homework is used to reinforce classroom learning and to foster autonomy and responsibility in our students. |
Approximate hours of homework given |
It depends on the age and the task set. |
Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs |
Yes |
Learning support offered |
Our Learning Support Team offers suppor to various students with special educational, social and emotional needs as well as their families.
|
The school supports gifted, able and talented students |
We support teachers in their understanding of the needs and abilities of these children, so that class activities can be differentiated in a way that promotes all areas of their development. |
Student access to education psychologist |
We work in close collaboration with outside psychologists and therapists when needed. The team effort results in the identification and removal of barriers to learning, and supports the developmental needs of our students. |
Entry evaluation for students |
Depending on their age groups, applicants might be required to complete an online assessment test in English and mathematics, which could be complemented by a French/Portuguese assessment test.
|
Brief description of entry evaluation required |
As part of our Admission Process, parents are invited to an informal conversation.
|
Waiting list |
No. |
Deadline for registration (new academic year) |
May |
Students can join after academic year begins |
Depending on the situation and availability. |
School start time |
The school is open Monday to Friday from 8:15 until 18:00.
|
School finish time |
For Early Years, School ends at 15:30
|
Supervised care before/after school |
The school offers afterschool club activities that students can register to, from 16h-18h. |
School bus service available |
No - we have partnered with a Bus Service |
School provided lunches |
We see our canteen as an extension of our classroom and also one of the tools in our quest for a more sustainable world. Our nutritious menus complement our programme of physical and outdoor activities to ensure good personal health and well-being for every child. |
Food alternatives for special dietary needs (ie. vegan, kosher, halal etc) |
Yes |
Uniform required |
Yes - students must wear the school tshirt/polo and jumper/hoody everyday. |
Extracurricular activities or clubs offered |
Redbridge offers many clubs and activities, ranging from Arts, Chess, Capoeira, Hip-Hop, Ballet, Inventors, Box, Taekwondo, Surf, Skate, Wall Climbing, Ceramics etc |
Sports activities included |
Children from EY to Secondary School have P.E as part of their curriculum - for some years this also includes swimming. |
Sports teams or sport competitions available for students |
The School participates in competitions with other portuguese public and private schools, as well as international schools |
Facilities at the school |
The school has two libraries - one for our Early Years and Primary Years students and one for our Secondary School students.
|
Sports facilities at the school |
Gymnasium, dojo, dance room, outdoor amphitheatre. |
Qualities and characteristics best defining the school |
At Redbridge International School, we are defined by our multilingual, inquiry-based approach, rooted in creativity, critical thinking, and a strong sense of community. We offer a nurturing, inclusive environment where students are encouraged to be curious, compassionate, and globally minded. With a focus on academic excellence, personal growth, and wellbeing, we prepare students to thrive in an ever-changing world while remaining true to themselves. |
Teaching approach of the school |
At Redbridge International School, we follow a balanced, child-centred approach that fosters both academic mastery and the development of key attitudes and transversal skills. Through inquiry-based learning and real-world connections, we support students in becoming curious, confident, and fulfilled lifelong learners. |