Education
A Commitment to Excellence
Our Curriculum Overview
The Aspire International School aims to offer all our students a broad and balanced curriculum that provides rewarding and stimulating activities to prepare them for the best social and cultural life.
Whether it is our books or hands-on training, we make sure each student gets personal attention to catch up and flourish in every subject for better scores and a brighter future.
Aspire PreSchool
Ages 3 to 5. Starting school is an exciting and emotional time — for children and their parents. At Aspire, we provide a warm, nurturing environment designed to make this transition happy and smooth.
Our Preschool, also referred to internationally as Nursery, Kindergarten, or Early Years, supports children aged 3 to 5 with a blend of structured activities and play-based learning. We follow the British Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) approach, encouraging curiosity, creativity, and confidence in every child.
Whether you’re familiar with the term Kindergarten (commonly used in the US, Germany, and much of Europe) or Nursery (used across the UK and Asia), Aspire ensures that no matter where you’re from, your child receives a caring, personalised start to their education.
Aspire Primary School
Primary Ages 5 to 11 / Y1-Y6 At Aspire, our Primary School offers a warm, nurturing environment where students feel happy, valued, and inspired to learn.
Rooted in the English National Curriculum and enriched for our international community, our programme encourages creativity, curiosity, and confidence at every stage of development.
Each class is led by a dedicated teacher who delivers core subjects including English, Maths, Portuguese, Science, and Humanities. To enhance learning further, pupils benefit from specialist instruction in Art, ICT, Physical Education, Performing Arts, and Music.
One day each week is devoted entirely to Portuguese language and culture, helping students integrate into the local community and appreciate life in Portugal.
With small class sizes, our exceptional team ensures that every child receives the attention and support they need to grow both academically and personally.
Aspire Secondary School
Ages 11 to 14 / Years 7–9. At Aspire, Secondary students transition into a new phase of independence and challenge. Our broad, balanced curriculum includes English, Maths, Science, Humanities, Portuguese, ICT, Languages, Art, Music, PE, Drama, and Mindfulness — ensuring a well-rounded education.
With no national exams at this stage, progress is measured through regular assessments and personalised goals. Small class sizes and specialist teachers allow us to nurture both academic achievement and emotional wellbeing, while preparing students for their iGCSE pathway in Year 10.
Preparation for iGCSEs: By Year 9, students begin exploring subject options for their iGCSEs. Taster sessions and guidance are provided to help both students and parents make informed decisions, ensuring a smooth and confident step into the next stage of education.
AIS GCSE
Ages 14 to 16 / Years 10–11. The iGCSE programme at Aspire forms a key part of our academic journey, combining core subjects like English, Maths, and Science with optional choices tailored to each student’s strengths and interests.
Our small class sizes and experienced teachers ensure focused support through every step of this internationally recognised qualification.
Students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning, develop independent study skills, and build the confidence needed for success. Regular assessments, feedback, and personal guidance help prepare them not just for exam results — but for their next steps in education and life beyond.
AIS A Level
Ages 16 to 18 / Years 12–13. Our Sixth Form offers a focused, supportive environment where students study A Levels that align with their university and career goals. With a wide choice of subjects and personalised guidance, each student builds a programme tailored to their ambitions.
Aspire’s dedicated teachers help students deepen their knowledge, develop critical thinking, and become confident, independent learners. Whether pursuing UK, European, or international university pathways, our Pearson Edexcel accreditation ensures a globally recognised qualification.
Children are not things to be molded, but people to be unfolded.
— Loris Malaguzzi
Educational FAQS
What is the difference between preschool, nursery, and kindergarten?
These are different terms used in different countries, but all refer to early childhood education for ages 3–5. At Aspire, we welcome children from all backgrounds and use the best international practices to support your child’s learning journey.