🔵 Discover St. Dominic's International School this summer and learn why families choose our caring international community.
Last places available for September 2026
St. Dominic’s International School has a proud tradition of being a supportive and caring community that delivers outstanding educational opportunities. Your child’s academic progress is kept foremost in our minds and our committed staff display enthusiasm, dedication and high level teaching skills. We constantly strive to create an environment in which every student is supported to achieve the highest levels of success.
We create personalised programs to support students with learning difficulties and for students who are new to the English language. Students with special gifts and talents are challenged and encouraged by our experienced teachers to achieve their full potential.
The positive relationships between parents, students and teachers are the foundation of our learning environment and we encourage ongoing communication to ensure your child’s success. We welcome you to the St. Dominic’s school community, a culture in which we believe that every student can thrive and excel.
| Number of students |
636 |
| Number of nationalities represented in the school |
52 |
| Most common nationality |
Portuguese is our largest single nationality, within a community that is over 70% international |
| Ratio of local students to international students |
3/7 |
| Native English speaking teachers |
Yes |
| Language support for students not fluent in English |
Yes |
| Additional language classes offered by the school |
Portuguese, Spanish, French and Mandarin. |
| Max. number of students per class |
18 |
| Average number of students per class |
15 |
| Does the school employ teaching assistants? |
Yes |
| Use of technology in the classroom |
Students have access to one tablet and one laptop each, and classrooms feature ActivPanel interactive displays that enhance engagement and collaboration. |
| Is the school ready to use virtual classrooms when needed? (e.g. teaching lessons online during emergencies) |
Yes |
| Do students practice religion at the school? What religion? |
No |
| External examinations or assessments available |
International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP) Certificate
|
| Results in these examinations |
An average of 39.5 total points in the IB MYP Certificate
|
| Do teachers assign homework to their students? |
Yes |
| Approximate hours of homework given |
Homework expectations vary by grade and subject, and are designed to be reasonable, balanced, and supportive of learning. |
| Percentage of students who pursue further education post-graduation |
90% |
| Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs |
Yes |
| Learning support offered |
St. Dominic’s supports each student through an individualised approach, both in the classroom and in small‑group settings. The school has a multidisciplinary team made up of counsellors, educational psychologists, and English‑as‑an‑additional‑language teachers, and also works with external specialists when needed. The school's team supports students across all grade levels, cooperating closely with mainstream teachers and parents to achieve the best possible outcome for each student. |
| The school supports gifted, able and talented students |
We personalise learning so all students receive appropriate challenge and extension. |
| Student access to education psychologist |
Yes |
| Entry evaluation for students |
No, unless specific circumstances require additional information. |
| Brief description of entry evaluation required |
For applications to Grade 6 and above, your child will be asked to complete an online placement test (CAT Test). |
| Waiting list |
No, although demand varies throughout the year. |
| Deadline for registration (new academic year) |
We offer year‑round enrolment, subject to availability. |
| Students can join after academic year begins |
Yes |
| School start time |
8h20 |
| School finish time |
15h30 |
| Supervised care before/after school |
After school supervision suspended due to COVID 19 pandemic |
| School bus service available |
Yes |
| School provided lunches |
Yes |
| Food alternatives for special dietary needs (ie. vegan, kosher, halal etc) |
Yes |
| Uniform required |
Yes |
| Extracurricular activities or clubs offered |
We offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including options in arts, music, sports, leadership, crafts, outdoor learning, and sustainability. |
| Sports activities included |
Physical and Health Education includes a variety of physical activities, sports, and health‑focused learning experiences |
| Sports teams or sport competitions available for students |
Yes |
| Facilities at the school |
Libraries, Science Labs, Design Labs, Art centre (Music, Drama and Visual Arts), Assembly Hall, dedicated buildings for different educational stages (PYP, MYP, DP). |
| Sports facilities at the school |
Two multi-use Gymnasiums, Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Tennis, and Badminton areas. |
| Qualities and characteristics best defining the school |
St Dominic’s International School is a welcoming, diverse IB continuum school (ages 3 to 18) where students feel safe, valued, and supported. With over 50 nationalities and a strong sense of belonging, SDIS fosters global mindedness, collaboration, and lifelong learning. Small class sizes, personalised attention, and an experienced faculty ensure an inclusive and academically rigorous environment |
| Teaching approach of the school |
SDIS follows an inquiry‑based IB teaching approach that blends academic rigour with personalised support and real‑world relevance. Learning is collaborative, concept‑driven, and hands‑on, supported by specialist facilities, expert teachers, a strong focus on wellbeing, and preparation for university and life beyond. Through our partnership with ISP, students gain expanded global opportunities, while ISP’s evidence‑informed approach supports faster progress and stronger academic results. |
St. Dominic’s International School is the first IB continuum school in Portugal. Grounded in 50 years of educational practice and 30 years of IB continuum experience, we use a mature, research-informed approach to learning that balances academic challenge with care, developing capable, reflective and globally minded students.
We’re delighted that you’re considering St. Dominic's International School for your child’s education.
Please call or email our Admissions team, with any questions.
We’re looking forward to answering all of your questions and welcoming your family to our school.
Contact us via WhatsApp on wa.me/351915240032
