ages 3 to 5
Pre-school
The early years are essential to every child’s development. Here, children learn through play, discover, explore and get along with others, in a safe, caring and stimulating environment, where each child is respected as an individual and families are essential partners in their growth and learning.
Learning through play
We follow the Portuguese Ministry of Education’s Curriculum Guidelines for Pre-school Education, valuing play as an essential experience of learning, discovery and development. Each child is supported closely and individually, respecting their pace, identity and needs.
The classes
Pre-school is organised in same-age classes for 3, 4 and 5-year-olds, allowing close support suited to each stage of child development, respecting each child’s pace and individuality.
- 3-year-olds class
- 4-year-olds class
- 5-year-olds class
Play, discover and create
Games, art, music and movement that spark creativity, imagination and the joy of learning every day.
English from age 3
Regular contact with English through songs, games, stories and playful activities.
Independence and sharing
Routines and experiences that build independence, confidence, responsibility and respect for others.
Family close by
A close, trusting relationship with families, based on dialogue, sharing and active involvement in school life.
A day in Pre-school
Daily routine of the Pre-school rooms (2026/2027). The school is open from 7h45 to 19h00.
- 8h00
Welcome in the classroom
The school opens at 7:45 am. Children are welcomed in their room from 8:00 to 9:15 am.
- 9h15
Morning snack
- 9h30
Plan, do and review
In small groups, children choose and plan their activities, explore, experiment and share what they did and discovered, building independence, creativity and reflection.
- 10h45
Morning playtime
At 10:45 am for age 3 and at 11:15 am for ages 4 and 5.
- 11h15
Lunch
At 11:15 am for age 3 and at 11:45 am for ages 4 and 5.
- 12h00
Nap
Until 2:00 pm, for age 3 and, when needed, for some 4-year-olds.
- 12h15
Lunchtime play
Until 1:00 pm, for ages 4 and 5.
- 13h30
Plan, do and review
Until 3:00 pm, afternoon learning in small groups, with time for playful exploration, play and free choice.
- 14h00
End of nap
Between 2:00 and 3:00 pm, the 3-year-olds wash up, have a snack and go out to play.
- 15h00
Snack and playtime
Until 4:00 pm, for ages 4 and 5.
- 16h15
Free play
Children are looked after until they are collected.
- 19h00
School closes
Activities in Pre-school
Included in the curriculum
- English
- Physical Education
- Music
Optional activities (monthly fee)
- Dance
- Karate
- Artistic gymnastics
- Psychomotor activities
- Football
- Musical instrument
How optional activities work (enrolment, schedules and payments)
Frequently asked questions
Can’t find the answer? Get in touch.
From what age can children join?
From age 3.
Do children have a nap?
The nap is for 3-year-olds, after lunch. Exceptionally, older children who still need to rest can also sleep.
Does the school offer extended hours after 5:00 pm?
Yes. The school is open on weekdays from 7h45 to 19h00: after classroom activities, children are looked after until they are collected.
How much does it cost?
See the full fee table on the Admissions page, including Ministry of Education support by income band.
Other stages at the school
A good start, from age 3
Pre-register and come and see the Pre-school classrooms and the team who will look after your child.