Barbara Queiróz Updated: January 19, 2026
Madeira is a beautiful Portuguese archipelago offering more than captivating landscapes and a mild climate throughout the year. The island has become a firm favorite with expat families due to its high quality of life and the excellent international schools in Madeira, Portugal.
In this article, we will guide you through the international schools on the island, their curricula, the language of instruction, annual fees, class size, and more.
We’ll begin by providing you with key information on the three international schools in Madeira, the International School of Madeira (ISM) and the International Sharing School – Madeira (ISSM). Notably, the International Sharing School officially opened its new €15 million campus in January 2026, a significant milestone for the school and a major draw for new families. Finally, we will share some insights on how to choose the right school for you and what living in Madeira with children is like.
Key Takeaways about International Schools in Madeira
- Madeira is home to selection of excellent and expanding international schools
- Main curricula include British, International IB, and Portuguese bilingual programs
- International schools in Madeira are situated in Funchal, the islands capital city
- Annual tuition generally ranges from €5,300 to €13,140, depending on age and curricula
- Madeira offers excellent early-learning centres with English instruction
Overview of International Education in Madeira
Choosing the school that is the right fit for your child is one of the most important decisions you will make, made even more difficult when relocating abroad. For parents moving to Madeira, this can mean exploring the international schools on the island to see which offers the best opportunities for their children. children.
Madeira is home to two very exceptional international schools and a Brave Generation Academy(BGA) hub, each located in Funchal, which makes them very accessible for families that have moved to the island’s capital.
Portugal’s education system is largely considered to be one of the best in the world, ranking in 25th position in the latest Global Education Report and in the same position in the World Population Review Education Rankings in 2025. Madeira’s schools are both regarded as being amongst the best in the country.
On the mainland, you will also find excellent international schools in Portugal, mostly clustered in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.
List of International Schools in Madeira
The International School of Madeira
The International School of Madeira provides a bilingual environment and follows a British curriculum, with some lessons taught in Portuguese.
The school prioritizes building a community-oriented environment for all students.
- Curriculum: Cambridge Assessment International Education
- Ages: Children aged 3-10
- Languages: English-led curriculum with Portuguese support
- Notes: Popular choice among expat families with young children
- Tuition range: Approx. €5,300 (nursery) to €5,900 annually
You can find out more about the International School of Madeira on its website.
International Sharing School of Madeira
The International Sharing School of Madeira follows an International Baccalaureate (IB) framework and a multilingual approach. The school nurtures an innovative, modern, and the school offers a cutting-edge ecosystem to empower and enable students to reach their fullest potential.
With highly qualified teachers working towards building a supportive, caring, and learning environment throughout the school year, this school is one of the best international schools on the island.
As we’ve mentioned, the International Sharing School, Madeira, recently opened a new campus in January 2026, which is sure to attract more international families and demonstrate the school’s investment in the future of its students.
- Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Ages: 3-19 years
- Languages: English-led curriculum with Portuguese & other language support
- Notes: Modern facilities; strong on tech, focus on wellbeing, with multicultural programs.
- Tuition range: €5,880 (early years) to €13,140 (Grade 12)
You can find out more about the International Sharing School on their website. Note that there is also an International Sharing school in Lisbon.
Brave Generation Academy (BGA)
Another option for international families is the Brave Generation Academy, which allows young people to explore their passions and academic preferences in a unique self-paced learning environment.
There is the choice of online learning and a hybrid model to cater to different preferences, with both secondary and university education offered.
- Curriculum: British, Portuguese, varies depending on the curriculum you choose
- Ages: Secondary and higher education students
- Languages: English, Portuguese, varies depending on preference
- Notes: Online and hybrid models
- Tuition range: €7,140 (depends on the course).
Choosing the Right International School in Madeira
Choosing the right school for you on Madeira Island is one of the most difficult choices that you have to make, and what academic journey is right for one family may not be right for you.
Below, we share some tips on how you can go about choosing the right school.
- Consider the educational program, extracurricular activities, and class sizes. Will your child be given the time and attention they need? Will the school help fuel your children’s interests outside the classroom?
- Research the school’s curriculum, teaching methods, and values. For example, if you are seeking an international school where the diploma is universally recognized, then the IB could be a good option to seek out for your children.
- Visit the school and meet with teachers and administrators to get a sense of the school’s community and ethos.
- If you know someone who has enrolled their children in a school in Madeira, ask for their experience.
Admission Requirements & Enrolment Process
What documents are needed: International schools in Madeira will require the following documents:
- Application form
- Registration fee
- Previous school reports, if required
- Language assessment, if required
- Placement interview, if required
- Vaccination records
When to apply: Make sure to make an enquiry at the school you are interested in and begin the application process as far ahead as possible. Spaces in Madeira’s international schools are limited (due to smaller class sizes), and waitlists are common.
Assessment criteria: Assessment usually includes uploading your child’s latest report card, followed by an interview and an assessment, if required. The school confirms your childs enrollment once it has received payment for all invoiced fees.
Living in Madeira with School-Age Children
Madeira is a haven for families, offering a diverse array of activities and attractions tailored for children. Its mild climate and breathtaking landscapes create the perfect environment for raising a family, where you’ll be able to discover beautiful natural landscapes throughout the year.
With an established expat community, very good international schools, and, as Madeira is in many ways the ultimate playground for children with the number of activities on offer – from hiking to horse-riding – living in Madeira with your family could be the perfect choice.
- Safety: Madeira is one of the safest places in Portugal, with a lower crime rate than on the mainland (Portugal is regarded as the seventh safest country in the world, according to the 2025 Global Peace Index).
- Outdoor activities: From Levada walks to biking, watersports to horse-riding, there are countless outdoor activities to enjoy in Madeira.
- Transport times to schools: International schools offer a bus service serving Funchal to get students to school; heavy traffic in rush hour can cause longer journeys.
- After-school clubs & sports: International schools offer a wide range of after-school activities. For example, the International Sharing School of Madeira offers chess, programming and robotics, sailing, choir, debating societies, sports (basketball, handball, football, racquet sports, volleyball), languages (Mandarin, Portuguese, English), and Maths club, amongst others.
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Goldcrest: How We Can Help You
If you are looking to move to this stunning Portuguese archipelago, you’ll want to consider buying property in Madeira. The real estate market here is dynamic, and you’ll find several stunning properties – many with sea views – that could be the perfect place for you to relocate to.
This is where Goldcrest comes in. As independent property avisors, we can ensure you get the best deal on your desired property, guiding you through the entire property buying process.
You can find out more in our guide to Madeira real estate, or find out how to find a good real estate agent in Madeira to help you find your dream home. The cost of living in Madeira, Portugal, is much more affordable than in many other destinations in Europe, making it possible to stretch your money further.
Frequently Asked Questions about International Schools in Madeira
How many international schools are present in Madeira?
There are three international schools in Madeira – The International School of Madeira and the International Sharing School of Madeira. These independent schools in Madeira are both excellent choices.
Is there a British international school in Madeira?
If you are a UK national, you may have done a quick search for “British School Madeira.” Your best choice would be the International School of Madeira, which is bilingual and follows a Cambridge curriculum. Also, it could be worth considering the International Sharing School, which offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework.
As an IB world school, you set your child up in the best way for the challenges that they will face in the world. If you are interested in enrolling your child in a school that offers the IB program, you can find a list of schools on the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) website.
Can I find a Madeira multilingual school?
Yes, for international education schools that offer bilingual education, consider the International School of Madeira. This international private school in Madeira offers excellent basic education for children aged between 3 and 10 years old.
How can I find the best international schools in Madeira?
Should you do a simple search for “international private school Madeira” or “Madeira private school”, two options will no doubt come up, the International School of Madeira and the International Sharing School of Madeira. Both are excellent options, but make sure you visit the school and determine which one is the right fit for you.
Are there English-speaking international schools in Madeira?
Pupils at international schools in Madeira will be taught in English, with the International School of Madeira offering a bilingual learning environment where they teach students in English and Portuguese.
How do international schools in Madeira prepare students for university?
International schools in Madeira, Portugal, prepare students for university and academic rigor through academic programs such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), which is recognized by universities worldwide.
Schools also provide college counseling services, helping the student body with university applications, entrance exams, and career guidance. This comprehensive support ensures students are well-prepared for higher education.
What is the reputation of international schools in Madeira among expat communities?
Madeira private high schools and Maderia independent elementary schools have a strong reputation among expat communities for providing high-quality education in a supportive, multicultural environment.
What are the benefits of attending an international school in Madeira?
Attending an international school in Madeira offers numerous benefits, including exposure to diverse cultures, high academic standards, and a wide range of extracurricular activities. These schools provide a global perspective, helping international students and local students develop the skills and mindset needed to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world.
Does Madeira have international schools?
Yes, Madeira has international schools, including the International School of Madeira, which offers a bilingual curriculum, and the International Sharing School of Madeira, which follows the International Baccalaureate (IB).
How much does international school cost in Madeira?
Annual tuition for international schools generally ranges from €5,300 to €13,140, depending on the chosen school, age, and the curricula. Both the International School of Madeira fees and the International Sharing School of Madeira depend on the grade level.
Can American kids go to school in Madeira?
Yes, American children can go to school in Madeira. Madeira has excellent international schools, including the International Sharing School of Madeira, which follows the IB and has English instruction.
What is the best international school in Madeira?
Two of the best international schools in Madeira are the International Sharing School of Madeira, which follows the IB curriculum, and the International School of Madeira, which focuses on inspiring children to achieve more.
