Quick summary of key school information
School details
Number of students |
1700 |
Number of nationalities represented in the school |
40 |
Most common nationality |
Portuguese |
Ratio of local students to international students |
20% |
Native English and Portuguese speaking teachers |
Yes |
Language support for students not fluent in English and Portuguese |
Yes |
Additional language classes offered by the school |
French and Spanish |
Max. number of students per class |
25 |
Average number of students per class |
18 |
Does the school employ teaching assistants? |
Yes |
Use of technology in the classroom |
CJD use interactive whiteboards, educational software and online learning platforms, Learning Management Systems (LMS), mobile devices, collaboration tools and digital assessment tools. |
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) |
CJD have adopted online video conferencing platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams to provide remote instruction to students who cannot physically attend classes. |
Do students practice religion at the school? What religion? |
No, however the school provides a space for students of diverse religious backgrounds to reflect and practice their beliefs. This helps to create a welcoming and inclusive environment that respects all students' beliefs and cultures. Having such a space is also beneficial for promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding, which lead to greater respect and appreciation for diversity. |
External examinations or assessments available |
At CJD, students can complete both Portuguese national assessments and Cambridge international assessments. For Portuguese students, they will take the national exams required by the Portuguese Ministry of Education in the relevant subjects at the end of 9th grade and at the secondary education (11th and 12th grade). For international students, they will take the Cambridge exams, which are internationally recognized qualifications in subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science and Humanities. These exams are usually taken at the end of each academic year and are a valuable preparation for higher education and future employment opportunities. We believe that providing students with a variety of assessments helps them to develop a diverse range of skills and prepares them for success in a variety of contexts. |
Results in these examinations |
Schools typically report on their student results in annual reports or other publications, like the public rankings. It's also important to keep in mind that exam results are not the only measure of a school's success, as student achievement is influenced by many factors beyond test scores. A well-rounded education also includes developing social and emotional skills, critical thinking abilities and creativity, among other competencies. |
Do teachers assign homework to their students? |
Yes, it's common for teachers to assign homework to their students. Homework is a way for students to review and practice what they have learned in class, and it helps them to develop independent study skills. The amount and frequency of homework assigned may vary depending on the grade level, subject, and individual teacher's approach. |
Approximate hours of homework given |
The amount of time suggested for students to complete their homework vary depending on their grade level and the subject being studied. Generally, it's recommended that younger students in primary school should have 10-30 minutes of homework per day, while older students in secondary school may need 1-2 hours of homework per day. |
Percentage of students who pursue further education post-graduation |
Based on records, approximately 99% of the CJD students attend a higher educational institution after graduating from school. The remaining 1% consists of students who choose not to pursue higher education and instead pursue other paths, such as vocational training or entrepreneurship. |
Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs |
Yes, CJD has specialized staff and programs to support students with special learning needs. We can find a dedicated team of learning support teachers and staff who work closely with students, parents, and teachers to provide individualized support for students with special needs. The goal is to ensure that all students have access to the resources and support they need to succeed academically and socially. |
Learning support offered |
Learning Support: CJD offers learning support to students who need extra help in academic areas such as reading, writing, and maths. The learning support team works closely with classroom teachers to identify areas of need and develop personalised learning plans for each student. Speech and Language Therapy: CJD has a speech and language therapist who works with students who have difficulties with speech, language, and communication. The therapist provides individual and group therapy sessions and works closely with classroom teachers to ensure that students are making progress. Occupational Therapy: CJD has an occupational therapist who works with students who have difficulties with fine motor skills, handwriting, and sensory integration. The therapist provides individual and group therapy sessions and works closely with classroom teachers to ensure that students are making progress. Counselling: CJD has a team of psychologists who provide emotional and social support to students who may be experiencing difficulties at home or at school. The psychology team works with students individually and in groups and provides support to families as needed. Assistive Technology: CJD uses a range of assistive technology tools to support students with special learning needs. These tools include software programs, digital devices, and other tools that help students access information and complete tasks more easily. |
The school supports gifted, able and talented students |
CJD offers a range of programs and strategies to support these students, including: Enrichment programs: CJD provides enrichment activities and programs to challenge and extend the learning of our gifted, able, and talented students. These activities may include advanced coursework, special projects, research opportunities, and mentorship programs. Differentiated instruction: CJD teachers use differentiated instruction to provide individualized learning experiences that meet the unique needs of each student. This approach allows gifted, able, and talented students to work at their own pace and level of challenge. Accelerated learning: For students who are ready for more advanced work, CJD offers accelerated learning opportunities. Individualized learning plans: CJD works with each student to develop an individualized learning plan that sets goals and objectives tailored to their needs and abilities. |
Student access to education psychologist |
Yes, CJD provides access to an educational psychologist for students who need additional support. The educational psychologist works with students, teachers and parents to identify and address learning and emotional challenges that may affect the student's academic progress. The psychologist can conduct assessments, provide individual counseling and develop personalized plans to help the student achieve their academic and personal goals. The services of the educational psychologist are usually provided on a case-by-case basis and are tailored to the needs of each individual student. |
Entry evaluation for students |
As an inclusive and non-elitist school, CJD believes in actively promoting diversity and welcoming students from a range of backgrounds and with varying academic abilities. Therefore, no entry exams or assessments are applied before enrolling new students. Each student's individual strengths and work are valued to support them in achieving their full potential. |
Waiting list |
CJD does not have a waiting list policy. Admissions operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and spots are not held for students who have not completed the admissions process. However, due to limited availability in some grades, families are encouraged to apply as early as possible to secure a spot for their child. |
Deadline for registration (new academic year) |
Since CJD has a first-come, first-served policy, there is no deadline for registration in a new academic year. However, it’s important to note that spaces may fill up quickly, so interested parents and students should apply as early as possible to increase their chances of securing a place. |
Students can join after academic year begins |
Yes |
School start time |
08h30 to 09h00, depending on the grades. |
School finish time |
13h00 to 18h00, depending on the grades and on the particular schedule of the student. |
Supervised care before/after school |
Yes, CJD does provide supervised care to students before and after the school day. There is a before-school program available that starts at 7:30, where students can come and spend time in a safe and supervised environment before classes begin. Similarly, CJD has an after-school program that runs until 19:30, where students can participate in a range of extracurricular activities or complete homework in a supervised environment. This service is available for all students, and parents can choose to enrol their child in either or both programs as needed. |
School bus service available |
CJD provides an on-demand school bus service. |
School provided lunches |
Yes, lunch is provided for students. A cafeteria on campus is available and serves a variety of meals and snacks throughout the day. The CJD food service team takes great care in preparing nutritious and delicious meals, taking into consideration any dietary restrictions or preferences that students may have. |
Food alternatives for special dietary needs (ie. vegan, kosher, halal etc) |
Yes, alternative food items are provided for students with special diets, such as vegan, kosher, halal, and others. CJD understands the importance of accommodating students' dietary needs and preferences and strives to provide a range of options to ensure that all students have access to nutritious and delicious meals. |
Uniform required |
Students are required to wear a uniform until 6th grade. |
Extracurricular activities or clubs offered |
CJD offers a variety of extracurricular activities and clubs to provide students with a well-rounded education. Some of the extracurricular activities and clubs offered include: Sports (e.g. rugby, football, basketball, volleyball, swimming)
|
Sports activities included |
Physical activities and sports like football (soccer), basketball, volleyball and handball, individual sports like running, swimming and traditional activities like gymnastics, dance and martial arts. |
Sports teams or sport competitions available for students |
CJD has sports teams and competitions for students to participate in, including rugby, basketball and volleyball. There are plans to start a football team and other sports teams next year. |
Facilities at the school |
CJD provides a variety of facilities for students to use, including a library, science labs, computer labs, an art studio, a music room, a STEM room, a theatre, a cafeteria, and outdoor facilities such as a playground, sports fields, and an outdoor theatre for events and performances. |
Sports facilities at the school |
Gymnasium, athletic fields, padel tennis courts, multisport grass field, multisport hard court fields, swimming pools (from a partner company), and fitness rooms. |
Qualities and characteristics best defining the school |
Colégio Júlio Dinis (CJD International School) is a private educational institution that values academic excellence, multiculturalism, and personalized attention to students. CJD strives to create a diverse and inclusive community that fosters a love for learning and encourages critical thinking, creativity, and leadership skills. The curriculum is based on a rigorous academic program that emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, while the extracurricular activities and sports programs promote a healthy lifestyle and teamwork. CJD is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment that prepares our students to become responsible, confident, and compassionate global citizens. |
Teaching approach of the school |
The teaching approach at CJD is student-centered, emphasizing active and inquiry-based learning. CJD students are expected to be active participants in the learning process, developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as creativity and communication skills. Teachers act as facilitators who guide students in their learning, rather than simply lecturing them. Interdisciplinary learning is promoted, allowing students to connect concepts and skills across different subjects. In addition, the development of social-emotional skills, such as empathy, respect, and responsibility, is prioritized, as we believe these skills are essential for students to become well-rounded individuals who can succeed both academically and in their personal lives. |