CIV Welcome Book - English by Inspired-Education-Group

Gu n uid in nd ines. Guide Welcome Guide

EXECUTIVE HEAD’S MESSAGE

Welcome to Colégio Internacional de Vilamoura (CIV), a distinguished institution committed to nurturing young minds and fostering a lifelong passion for learning. As ExecutiveHead, I am delighted to introduce you to our vibrant community, where educational excellence and personal growth are at the heart of everything we do.

Our Unique Identity

Established in 1984, CIV has been a pioneer of international education in the Algarve, offering a rich and diverse cultural environment. Our mission is to cultivate cognitive and socio-affective abilities within an international and multilingual setting, emphasizing humanistic and democratic values. We believe in nurturing creativity and maximizing learning potential, ensuring our students are well-prepared for the challenges of the future.

Academic Excellence

At CIV, we are committed to academic rigour and innovation. We offer two distinct academic pathways:

•National Curriculum: Following the Portuguese national curriculum from Preschool to Grade 12.

• International Curriculum: following the Cambridge International Curriculum through to IGCSE and culminating in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) in Grades 11 and 12.

This dual approach allows us to cater to the individual needs and aspirations of our students, providing them with a solid foundation for higher education and future careers.

Dedicated Facult y

Our team of experienced and passionate educators is dedicated to inspiring and guiding students towards achieving their full potential. They employ innovative teaching methodologies and provide personalized support, fostering an environment where students feel valued and motivated to excel.

Holistic Education

Education at CIV extends beyond the classroom. We offer a comprehensive range of extracurricular activities designed to promote physical, emotional, and social well-being. Our programs include performing arts such as ballet and music (clarinet, flute, piano, saxophone), technology-based activities like coding, martial arts including karate, and sports such as football and tennis. These opportunities enable students to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Our campus spans approximately 27,000m² and features modern classrooms tailored to each age group, fully equipped laboratories for Chemistry, Physics, and Biology, dedicated rooms for Music and Arts, a ballet studio, multipurpose rooms, two gymnasiums, a synthetic grass football field, and courts for basketball, tennis, and volleyball. Additionally, we have a well-stocked library and a spacious dining hall, providing an environment conducive to learning and personal development.

Supportive Community

At CIV, we foster a strong sense of belonging among students, parents, and staff. Our inclusive community encourages active parental involvement and open communication, creating a supportive network that enhances the educational experience. We believe that collaboration between home and school is vital in nurturing well-rounded individuals.

University Admissions and Career Outcomes

Our holistic educational approach has a proven track record of success, with alumni gaining admission to prestigious universities worldwide. We provide individualized guidance and support throughout the university application process, ensuring our graduates are well-prepared to embark on their chosen career paths with confidence and competence.

Choosing the right school is a significant decision, and we are here to assist you every step of the way. I warmly invite you to visit our campus, meet our dedicated staff, and experience firsthand the dynamic and nurturing environment that defines Colégio Internacional de Vilamoura.

We look forward to welcoming you into our CIV family.

Warm regards,

RUI MORAIS EXECUTIVE HEAD rui.morais@civ.pt

KEY DOCUMENTS

IB DP Academic Integrity Policy

IB DP Admissions Policy

IB DP Assessment Policy

IB DP Inclusion Policy

IB DP Language Policy

CLOSING DATES

The school is closed in the following days

• 24th December – 2nd January

• 17th February

• 2nd April

• 14th May

• 1st August – 31st August

FIRST WEEK GUIDE

Parents’ Open Days

Curriculum

Kindergarten

Jardim de Infância

6 to 8

First Day of School

Curriculum

Kindergarten

Jardim de Infância

& Reception

3, 4, 5

to Grade 9

Grades 10 to 12

ano to 9º ano

ano to 12º ano

SERVICES

Access Control

CIV ensures a secure and controlled school environment through a personalised Access Card System. Starting from Grade 5 (or 5.º ano), students receive individual access cards that allow them to enter the school premises independently.

While entry is facilitated through this system, exits are strictly supervised. Students are only permitted to leave the campus if accompanied by a parent, guardian, or authorised adult. To further reinforce safety, school staff are present at all main entry and exit points.

Access cards are issued upon request at the school reception. In case of loss or damage, replacement cards can be arranged at reception for a small administrative fee of €5.

Bus Service

CIV provides transport to ensure students can travel to and from school safely and conveniently. This service picks up and drops off students at a designated location. Ideal for students or families seeking a seamless and reliable transport experience. Routes are tailored based on student addresses and change annually to maximize efficiency.

Detailed route maps, timings, and pricing are provided by the school administration. Early booking is advised due to high demand.

Psychologist Office

The CIV Psychologist Office is an integral part of our school. Their role involves:

• Evaluate and refer students for specialised evaluation;

• Provide Pre-school Diagnostic assessments;

• Support educational and vocational guidance;

• Support students and staff; For formal evaluation to take place, written permission from parents is required.

The CIV Newsletter is sent weekly to parents and ensures all members of the community are kept well-informed and actively engaged in school life. It includes:

• A summary of the week’s main activities, events, and achievements.

• Important announcements from the administration.

• Reminders of upcoming deadlines, holidays, and school trips.

• Invitations to school communit y events and parent sessions.

Medical Room

Our on-site medical room provides professional, compassionate medical support to the entire CIV community. Her responsibilities include:

• Monitoring student health and providing first aid during school hours.

• Administering prescribed or routine medications.

• Responding to medical emergencies and coordinating with emergency services as needed.

• Supporting students with chronic health conditions.

• Conducting preventative health education and hygiene awareness campaigns.

• Training all school staff in basic life support and first response procedures.

To further strengthen emergency preparedness, 12 staff members have been certified through the SBV “Manual de Suporte Básico de Vida e Desfibrilhação Automática Externa” - a Portuguese-certified program for Basic Life Support and AED use.

Student Lockers

All students are assigned personal lockers to securely store books, stationery, sports gear, and other belongings throughout the school day. Students must bring their own padlocks, ensuring their belongings remain private and secure. The various coordinators will guide students to their allocated lockers on the first day of the academic year.

Uniforms

CIV maintains a formal school uniform policy to promote unity and equality. All uniforms, including daily wear, physical education kits, and seasonal accessories are available for purchase at the Papelaria, located on campus. New students are guided through uniform requirements upon enrolment. The school encourages parents to label all clothing items clearly to avoid loss or mix-ups.

SYSTEMS

SOCS Platform

SOCS is the platform used to manage all co-curricular activities, including signups for clubs, sports, field trips, and school break activities. It synchronises with the student’s timetable and calendar, helping families stay organised and informed.

Access SOCS here.

LEADERSHIP TEAM

Whole School

Executive Head

Rui Morais

Head of Early Learning School

Axelle van Hauwaert

National Curriculum

Head of 1º Ciclo

Helena Neto

Pedagogical Head

Cidália Ferreira Bicho

Business Manager

Ana Rosa Murta

Head of Secundário

Rosário Quintas

International Curriculum

Principal

Bruno Nande

Head of Primary School

Nicole da Silva

Head of 2º & 3º Ciclos

Miguel Rocha

Assistant Principal

Ana Proença

Head of Middle School

Diana Rocha

Head of Upper School

Renato Martins

CONTACTS

Whole School

Executive Head

Rui Morais +351 289 303 280 rui.morais@civ.pt

Pedagogical Head

Cidália Ferreira Bicho +351 289 303 280 cidalia.bicho@civ.pt

Head of Early Learning School

Axelle van Hauwaert +351 289 303 280 axelle.vanhawaert@civ.pt

Business Manager

Ana Rosa Murta +351 289 303 280 anarosa@civ.pt

Admissions

Cláudia Custodinho +351 289 303 280

admissions@civ.pt

Medical Room

Rita Palma +351 289 303 280 rita.palma@civ.pt

Psychologist Office

Susana Frade susana.frade@civ.pt

National Curriculum

Head of 1º Ciclo

Helena Neto +351 289 303 280 helena.neto@civ.pt

Head of 2º & 3º Ciclos

Miguel Rocha +351 289 303 280 miguel.rocha@civ.pt

Head of Secundário

Rosário Quintas +351 289 303 280 rosario.quintas@civ.pt

International Curriculum Principal

Bruno Nande +351 289 303 280 bruno.nande@civ.pt

Assistant Principal

Ana Proença +351 289 303 280 ana.proenca@civ.pt

Head of Primary School

Nicole da Silva +351 289 303 280 nicole.silva@civ.pt

Head of Middle School

Diana Rocha +351 289 303 280 diana.rocha@civ.pt

Head of Upper School

Renato Martins +351 289 303 280 renato.martins@civ.pt

MISSION

Vilamoura International School’s (CIV) mission is to promote international education in Portugal. This entails a permanent focus on research and innovation, ensuring quality and a unique experience in the early learning of foreign languages in an international environment.

VALUES

Expression & Communication

The ability to communicate effectively in different social contexts.

Building regular and independent reading and writing habits. Multilingualism

Academic Independence

Mastering communication in various linguistic contexts (Portuguese, English, French, Russian).

Lifelong Learning

Autonomy to research, transform information, and generate new knowledge.

Organisation & Responsibility

Personal and professional self-management skills.

Leadership & Integrity

Developing leadership while promoting values and ethical attitudes.

VALUES

Collaboration & Citizenship

Cooperation with others and engagement in national and international social issues.

Problem-Solving

Tackling challenges by weighing different choices and perspectives.

Ecological Awareness

Embracing sustainable practices in daily routines and social contexts.

Critical Thinking

Applying scientific, technological, and cultural knowledge to solve problems.

Well-being & Balance

Valuing hygiene, nutrition, and physical activity.

EARLY LEARNING SCHOOL

Whole

school PE3, PE4, PE5, Nursery, Reception

With over forty years of experience in early childhood education, the CIV Kindergarten has, since 2011, implemented a pedagogical model in which inquiry and exploration drive the development of social, emotional, and cognitive skills.

This international school setting is designed to foster autonomy, creativity, and problem-solving. The physical space reflects the school’s educational values: openplan, fluid, and free of traditional barriers like doors, encouraging continuity and flexibility in learning.

Children learn in a multilingual, multicultural environment that nurtures curiosity, promotes diversity, and supports a deep sense of belonging. The teaching staff and assistants work collaboratively to create a safe, inclusive, and inspiring atmosphere where each child is seen, supported, and celebrated.

Learning is based on observation, project work, and active engagement. Each child is encouraged to explore their interests at their own pace. Through daily experiences that integrate different learning domains, children develop a well-rounded foundation for their future schooling.

Parents are actively involved in the educational journey through participation in classroom life, sharing traditions, and contributing to multicultural celebrations. The

Kindergarten at CIV is not just a place for learning, it is a space that challenges, inspires, and invites children to see the world with wonder and confidence.

Focus Area

Social and Emotional Development: Building autonomy, self-esteem, empathy, responsibility, and collaborative skills.

Multilingual Communication: Emphasis on language acquisition and cultural literacy in both the curriculum language (Portuguese or English) and an additional foreign language.

Inquiry and Critical Thinking: Encouraging curiosity and reflection through Philosophy for Children, Storytelling, and problem-solving approaches.

Creativity and Artistic Expression: Providing space for self-expression through music, dance, drama, and visual arts.

Physical Well-being and Emotional Balance: Promoting movement, mindfulness, and a healthy relationship with the body through sports, yoga, and outdoor exploration.

Exploration of the Natural and Social World: Developing awareness of the surrounding environment and cultural diversity through experiential learning.

Key elements

1.Curricular Areas

• Personal and Social Development: Strengthening children’s confidence, autonomy, and capacity to engage meaningfully with others.

Expression and Communication: Oral Language and Early Writing: Enhancing verbal communication and early literacy skills.

Artistic Education: Visual arts, music, dance, and drama.

Motor Development: Physical education and movement.

• Understanding the World: Early exposure to science, technology, society, and culture.

• Mathematics: Learning numbers, shapes, patterns, and logical reasoning through play-based learning.

2.Signature Methodologies

• Philosophy for Children: Stimulating reasoning and ethical thinking.

• Storytelling Methodology: Teaching language and values through narrative.

• Problem-Solving Projects: Encouraging independent thinking and resilience.

3.Learning Environment

• Open and fluid architecture that supports autonomy and creativit y.

• Purpose -built labs for science, mathematics, music, and the arts.

• Multilingual and multicultural immersion across all learning areas.

• Nature-based learning through outdoor play and exploration.

4.Extracurricular Activities (after 3 p.m.)

• Dance & Ballet: Motor coordination, discipline, and expressive movement.

• Karate: Respect, strength, and confidence building.

• Gymnastics: Physical strength, flexibility, and coordination.

• Music: Rhythm, sound, and creative exploration.

5.Teacher and Family Involvement

• Personalized learning supported by systematic observation and documentation.

• Team of dedicated teachers and classroom assistants committed to holistic child development.

• Strong family -school partnership that nurtures community, trust, and shared responsibility in the educational process.

1º CICLO

The Portuguese Studies program at CIV delivers the National Curriculum adapted to an international context, enriched with a strong emphasis on bilingual fluency by providing intensive English language instruction. The program nurtures creativity, autonomy, emotional intelligence, and a love of reading, theatre, and the arts.

Following on from the Kindergarten, the curriculum includes Philosophy for Children, which fosters critical thinking, active listening, and respect for diversity through storytelling and imagination. An experienced pedagogical team engages students in projects such as problem solving, the Ciência Viva Project, reading programs, and individual research projects.

The main language of instruction is Portuguese, except for English classes. However, all students benefit from a multicultural and multilingual environment, with regular exposure to English and other languages during recess and common activities.

Focus Area

• Language and literacy: fluent Portuguese communication alongside English language development

• Creativit y and arts: theatre, music, dance, singing, and visual arts

• Critical thinking and philosophy: through storytelling and reflective practices

• Scientific inquiry and problem solving: hands-on projects, investigations and focus on mathmatics

• Emotional education: promoting autonomy and social skills

Key elements

• Core subjects aligned with the Portuguese National Curriculum

• Intensive English language classes to develop bilingual fluency

• Philosophy for Children program

• Enriching projects: Ciência Viva, problem-solving initiatives, and reading programs

• Artistic exposure: regular contact with authors, storytellers, and various art forms

• Dedicated teachers experienced in international and bilingual education

National Curriculum

1º, 2º, 3º and 4º anos

| Academic Programme

PRIMARY SCHOOL

The English Studies programme at CIV follows the Cambridge Curriculum from Pre 1 through Grade 5, providing a structured and coherent academic pathway that prepares students for Middle and Upper School. Learning is personalised to honour each child’s unique style, with a strong focus on fluency in reading and writing in English.

The program integrates inquiry-based and play-based learning, especially at younger ages, ensuring that children develop academically as well as socially and emotionally. The curriculum emphasises developing confident communicators through early public speaking, drama, and participation in school-wide events such as Speech Competitions, Eisteddfods, and Talent Shows.

Focus Area

• Literacy development : reading, writing, and oral communication

• STEM subjects: Mathematics and Science taught through inquiry and problem solving

• Creativit y and performing arts: drama, music, dance, and art

• Physical education and wellbeing: a broad sports program including football, netball, basketball, tennis, karate, and yoga

• Multilingual exposure: integrated lessons in Portuguese and French from early grades

Key elements

• Core subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, and Humanities (with local and global contexts)

• Specialist lessons: Music, Physical Education, Computing, Art, Drama, and French (starting Grade 4)

• Language lessons: Portuguese integrated twice a week, differentiated by level (Portuguese as First or Foreign Language)

• Extracurricular activities: wide variety of sports, coding and performing arts and future choir programs

• Events and competitions: Speech Contests, Eisteddfods, Talent Shows, and sports tournaments both internally and against other schools.

International Curriculum

Pre-1, Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3, Grade 4, Grade 5

2º & 3º CICLOS

National Curriculum

The National Curriculum in Middle School builds on knowledge acquired in earlier years, with increasing complexity and abstraction. Students engage with diverse fields of knowledge through analytical, synthetic, and reflective approaches. Emphasis is placed on developing scientific thinking, self-organisation, and autonomous learning.

Students develop a strong connection with literature (including full works of the Western Canon), creative writing, theatre, and research. English language learning is reinforced through a specialised programme aiming at high-level proficiency and international certification. From 5º ano, students also begin French.

Educational projects empower students to build their own knowledge in collaboration with teachers. These include the Annual Project, Reading Project, Science Week, and international internships. The goal is to instil a love for learning, research, and self-realisation.

Focus Area

• Deepening of scientific and humanistic understanding

• Promotion of abstract thinking and autonomy

• Strong focus on literacy, language learning, and cultural expression

• Active and personalised learning through projectbased work

• Preparation for national assessments and future education

Key elements

• Academic Subjects: Portuguese, Mathematics, Science, English, French, History, Geography, among others

• Language Certification: Advanced English and French learning, with international exams

• Project-Based Learning:

° Annual Investigation Project

° Reading Project

° Science Week

° International Work Experience

° Work Experience (9º ano)

• National Assessments:

° Provas de Final de Ciclo (9.º ano): Portuguese and Mathematics

° Provas MODA (4.º and 6.º anos): literacy and diagnostic assessments

• Parental Support Guidance:

° School-led preparation sessions

° Study strategies and learning resources provided

° Importance of these assessments for progression to upper secondary education

• Arts & Expression: Art, Drama, Music, Public Speaking

•Physical Education: PE lessons and sports activities

5º, 6º, 7º, 8º and 9º anos

MIDDLE SCHOOL

International Curriculum

At CIV Middle School, the transition from Primary to Middle School is designed to be smooth and meaningful. Our students, aged 11 to 14 (Grades 6 to 8), are supported by a dedicated Coordination team that connects parents, students, and teachers, ensuring every child takes an active, personalised role in their learning.

The international track follows the Cambridge Lower Secondary Curriculum, a globally recognised framework that offers a broad and balanced education. The programme is designed to foster independence, critical thinking, and a love for learning. It is academically rigorous, yet flexible enough to be adapted to local contexts.

The curriculum not only prepares students for future academic milestones like the IGCSEs, but also helps them grow as individuals with confidence, resilience, and a global mindset.

Focus Area

• Development of independent learning and critical thinking

• Strong academic foundation in key subject areas

• Emphasis on personal and social growth

• Multilingualism and global citizenship

• Preparation for Cambridge IGCSE and further studies

Key elements

• Core Subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities

• Languages: Portuguese, French (DELF diplomas), and Portuguese proficiency exams (TEJO, CIPLE, DEPLE, DIPLE)

• Arts & Expression: Art & Design, Drama, Public Speaking

• Technology & Innovation: Computer Science , Business Studies

• Physical Education: PE lessons and sports activities

• Cross-Curricular Skills: Collaboration, problemsolving, communication, and self-management

• Student Life:

° Assemblies and group activities that foster empathy and social interaction

° International Trips: e.g., Grade 7 to France, Grade 8 to UK

° Adventure Camps: end-of-year outings in nature

° Civic Engagement: involvement in initiatives like fundraising at the Christmas Fair

° Recognition: academic and cultural achievements acknowledged

Grade 6, Grade 7, Grade 8

SECUNDÁRIO

At Ensino Secundário, Colégio Internacional de Vilamoura (CIV) offers Scientific-Humanistic courses that provide students with access to a broad range of academic and career pathways. The two main options available are the Science and Technology track and the Social and Economic Sciences track. These courses are part of the Portuguese National Curriculum and are designed to prepare students for higher education by fostering advanced knowledge, critical thinking, and research skills.

The goal of Upper Secondary education at CIV is to lead students towards higher levels of complexity in learning. It is a demanding stage, built on the principle of progressing from simple to complex concepts. Students are expected to develop their ability to think abstractly and to engage in research projects with increasing autonomy and depth. Small group instruction, bilingual learning environments, strong scientific and humanistic foundations, international experiences, and direct contact with national and international research centres and universities are all integral elements of this stage.

CIV also places strong emphasis on career guidance, helping students make informed decisions about their academic futures through contact with universities, structured goal-setting, and individualised support. National exam preparation is rigorous and focused, with small-group sessions that build the cognitive and academic skills necessary for success.

Focus Area

Academic Preparation: Emphasis on solid theoretical foundations in both scientific and socio-economic domains, supported by high expectations and intensive teaching methods.

Research and Critical Thinking: Integration of projectbased learning and collaboration with research institutions, encouraging analytical and investigative skills.

Bilingual and International Context: A bilingual learning environment prepares students for global opportunities, with experiences that bridge local and international academic communities.

Career and University Guidance: Personalised counselling beginning in 10º ano, including presentations from national and international universities, study visits, and support for online applications.

Exam Readiness: Ongoing formative assessment combined with focused national exam preparation in small groups to develop key cognitive skills such as conceptualisation, investigation, and communication.

Key elements

At Colégio Internacional de Vilamoura, the ScientificHumanistic Courses offered in Upper Secondary provide a rigorous academic foundation tailored to students’ future university and career goals. In the Science and Technology track, students engage with a comprehensive

National Curriculum

10º, 11º and 12º anos

curriculum that includes both general education subjects –such as Portuguese, English (continuation level), Philosophy, Physical Education, Cycle Test, and School Assembly – and specialist subjects like Mathematics A 10º to 12º ano, Physics and Chemistry A, and Biology and Geology 10º and 11º anos. In 12º ano, students choose between Biology or Physics as an optional subject, and continue English at the continuation level.

The Social and Economic Sciences track follows a similar structure. Students study the same general education subjects and pursue a specialisation in Mathematics A, Economics A, and History B during 10º and 11º anos. In 12º ano, the curriculum includes Geography and English (continuation level), allowing students to build a strong foundation in both quantitative and analytical disciplines.

Throughout these programmes, career guidance plays a central role. CIV supports students in defining their

academic and professional pathways by providing detailed information on higher education opportunities. This includes presentations from national and international universities, academic fairs, and organised study visits. From 11º ano onwards, students benefit from increasingly personalised support, particularly during the university application process. For those applying to Portuguese institutions, the school offers dedicated sessions that guide them step by step through the online application system.

In preparation for national examinations, CIV adopts a dual approach: continuous formative assessment that emphasises the development of critical cognitive skills – such as conceptualisation, problem-solving, research, and communication – alongside intensive small-group preparation sessions. These sessions help students consolidate their knowledge and refine their exam technique during this crucial phase of their academic journey.

At our school, we foster an internationally oriented and inquiry-based learning environment across both our pathways.

For students in Grades 9 and 10 (typically aged 14 to 16), our IGCSE programme provides a robust foundation in core subjects.

Focus Area

This pathway emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, effective communication, and collaboration, all of which are essential for academic success and personal growth.

Across both pathways, we cultivate a broad range of skills – problem-solving, creativity, and an eagerness for lifelong learning. Our approach integrates academic studies with hands-on, practical experiences.

Furthermore, our learning environment is enhanced by specialist facilities, including dedicated art rooms, brand new science laboratories, and modern sports fields, which support both intellectual development and physical well-being.

Key elements

At CIV, the IGCSE programme offers a diverse range of subjects, including English, Mathematics*, Sciences, Portuguese A/B, Computer Science, History, Art & Design, Business, Drama, French, and Physical Education. This broad curriculum supports students in developing both academic excellence and personal interests.

*Mathematics includes different levels of study.

International Curriculum

Grade 9, Grade 10

The IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) at CIV is a rigorous, globally respected academic curriculum designed for students aged 16–19. Delivered in small cohorts with personalised attention, CIV’s IBDP prepares students for top-tier universities worldwide. The programme emphasises critical thinking, independent research, interdisciplinary connections, and civic responsibility. With expert guidance, exceptional facilities, and a seamless transition from IGCSE, CIV cultivates both academic excellence and personal growth.

Focus Area

•Guided Pathways & Counselling

Starting in Grade 10, families work closely with both the IB Coordinator and University Counsellor to tailor subject selections to students’ degree and career ambitions.

•Small-Cohort Advantage

Greater lab access for science students

More rehearsal and performance opportunities in the arts

Detailed, individualised feedback on all assignments, especially the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) components

•Smooth Transition from IGCSE

Vertical Alignment: Course offerings are structured to allow a natural progression from Cambridge IGCSE subjects to IB subject combinations, avoiding scheduling conflicts.

International Curriculum

Grade 11, Grade 12

12 | Academic Programme

Portuguese Integration: Elements of the national curriculum, such as Portuguese history and civic education, are embedded into TOK and CAS, ensuring relevance to local university pathways.

Key elements

CIV offers a wide range of subjects across all six IB Diploma Programme groups, enabling students to tailor their academic pathway to suit their interests and future goals. The subjects are available at Higher Level (HL) or Standard Level (SL), depending on student preference and university requirements.

Group 1: Studies in Language & Literature

English Language & Literature – HL / SL

Portuguese Language & Literature – HL / SL

Group 2: Language Acquisition

French B – HL / SL

Spanish ab initio – SL

Portuguese B - HL/SL

Group 3: Individuals & Societies

History – HL / SL

Business Management – HL / SL

Group 4: Sciences

Biology – HL / SL

Chemistry – HL / SL

Physics – HL / SL

Group 5: Mathematics

Mathematics: Analysis & Approaches (MAA) – HL / SL

Mathematics: Applications & Interpretation (MAI) – SL

KEY PROGRAMMES

Enrichment Programme Activites

At CIV, learning goes beyond the classroom. Our Enrichment Programme offers unique opportunities for students to develop their skills in Sports, Creative & Performing Arts, and also to get their curricular skills to a next level through our Curriculum Enhancement activities, offered through the school clubs.

Sports and Creative & Performing Arts

Our activities are sportful, playful, cultural, and entirely optional, offering students a vibrant extension of their school day. Carefully designed to complement academic life, these activities take place after the regular school timetable and provide opportunities for students to explore interests, develop new skills, and build friendships in a relaxed and enriching environment. From sports and arts to cultural initiatives, the CIV experience encourages a well-rounded, joyful education.

Curriculum Enhancement (Clubs) -

At CIV, clubs form a core component of the school’s educational philosophy, deeply integrated within their international curriculum. Available from Grade 5 to Grade 8, and offered to students in both National and International streams, these clubs are curricular –though optional – and scheduled outside class time. They’re crafted to foster multiple intelligences –kinesthetic, spatial, naturalistic, musical, interpersonal, and intrapersonal – and to bring together students of different ages and curricular backgrounds in meaningful activities

Clubs reflect CIV’s longstanding commitment to student agency and holistic development, allowing choicebased learning tied to personal interests starting from Grade 5.

Well-Being

The CIV Psychologist Office is an integral part of our school. Their role is to:

• evaluate and refer students for specialised evaluation;

• provide Pre-school Diagnostic assessments;

• support educational and vocational guidance;

• support students and staff.

For formal evaluation to take place written permission from parents is required.

School Trips

At CIV, students take part in national and international trips that extend learning beyond the classroom. These experiences strengthen academic knowledge while enriching it with cultural insights, helping students develop valuable skills and a broader global perspective.

Student Representative Council

The Student Representative Council (SRC) at Colégio Internacional de Vilamoura plays an important role in promoting student voice, leadership, and active citizenship within the school community. Composed of elected student representatives from various year groups, the SRC acts as a bridge between the student body and the school leadership.

The council is responsible for:

• Representing students’ views and concerns

• Organising events and initiatives that foster school spirit and community involvement

• Collaborating with teachers and school management to support a positive and inclusive school environment

• Encouraging responsibilit y, teamwork, and participation in school life

Through their work, the SRC helps cultivate a sense of ownership, respect, and engagement among students, while also developing their communication and leadership skills.

University

Applications & Career Guidance

At Colégio Internacional de Vilamoura, students receive individualised and structured university guidance beginning in Grade 10, helping them make informed decisions about IB Diploma Programme subject choices and future career pathways. This early support allows students to explore their interests while aligning academic choices with long-term goals.

Throughout their senior years, students benefit from a wide range of career guidance activities and events, organised according to interest and availability. These initiatives include university fairs, where students can engage directly with institutional representatives, explore academic programmes, and clarify entrance requirements.

Dedicated university counsellors provide ongoing support with all aspects of the application process –from helping students conduct their own course and university research, to offering personalised assistance with reference letters, personal statements, motivational letters, and formal applications. Students are encouraged to take responsibility for their research, while having full access to professional guidance whenever needed.

Whether applying to Portuguese or international universities, CIV ensures that each student is wellprepared and that all application documents are accurately submitted on time. This structured and personalised approach to university admissions has contributed to a strong track record of alumni success, with many of our graduates earning places at prestigious universities worldwide.

At CIV, we believe in a holistic and future-focused education that equips students not only with academic excellence but also the confidence and competence to pursue their chosen careers.