Founded in 1972 in Lagoa, central Algarve, Nobel Algarve British International School has long been regarded as Southern Portugal’s premier international school. The school joined Globeducate in 2019 – one of the world’s leading K12 education groups with 65+ premium bilingual and international schools, and online programmes. The group has schools in 11 countries, educating more than 40,000 students. The Globeducate vision is to prepare each student to become a global citizen who can shape the world.
Nobel Algarve British International School has long been regarded as Southern Portugal’s premier international school. Currently comprising two campuses in the Algarve: the flagship school in Lagoa, and the new state-of-the-art campus in Almancil. Together the campuses educate more than 1,400 students from more than 50 nationalities, aged three to 18.
Students in the international section follow either a contextualised version of the National Curriculum for England, sitting IGCSEs and A-levels or the National Portuguese curriculum. Almancil is currently a Candidate School for the IB Diploma Programme, pursuing authorisation as an IB World School to offer it to current Y11 students, who will be the pioneering class starting in September 2025. Lagoa offers the National Curriculum for England and the Portuguese Ministry of Education programme, with most students going on to enrol in some of the world’s leading higher-education institutions.
At Nobel Algarve British International School learning goes beyond the classroom – we offer a rich activities programme, and an outdoor learning programme called The Journey, which promotes environmental awareness and equips pupils to face challenges confidently, building character so they manage failure with tenacity and resilience.
Both schools use globally recognised assessment practices, and students achieve qualifications aligned with global standards of excellence. Demand is high across all curricula and maintain the standards of a Globeducate British International School (GBIS) education, regardless of which curriculum students choose. We are proud to provide an education that transcends traditional academics and encourages a deeper understanding of the world.
Being a member of Globeducate’s British International Schools (GBIS) cluster affords opportunities for students and teachers to collaborate with others on projects such as LEGO® Education and through partnerships with WWF (World Wildlife Fund) and Eco-Schools. Students also take part in regular global events and competitions with other schools in the international group.
21st-century learning for a better future
Both campuses – Lagoa and Almancil – have unveiled ambitious expansion plans, an impressive project branded ‘Nobel Algarve – Shaping the Future’ which is being developed in different phases. Nobel Algarve Lagoa and Almancil will be equipped with new buildings and new classrooms with state-of-the-art features such as a next-generation Science Lab, ICT suites and multimedia centre in Almancil and a new multi-purpose gymnasium/performance space, a bespoke pre-school, and a brand-new canteen in Lagoa. Last September, the new Early Years facilities were launched in Lagoa, and the year before, the new Secondary building in Almancil had already been inaugurated – the expansion plans are underway.
The Ambitious Expansion Plan for Globeducate in Portugal
James Polansky, CEO for Globeducate Portugal and the UK since 2024, shares insights into the group’s journey and future plans here.
What sets Globeducate’s schools in Portugal apart?
Globeducate has a footprint across 11 countries, offering diverse curricula – national and international, including the IB and the National Curriculum for England. With 65+ schools and 40,000 students, it fosters a well-connected global community. In Portugal, the three schools form part of the wider Globeducate British International Schools (GBIS) cluster – Nobel Algarve British International School (Lagoa and Almancil) and IPS Cascais (Lisbon). These schools stand out for strong collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and innovation, and work closely with other GBIS schools in France, Spain, and the UK. These schools share key principles common in British schools but are well adapted for an international community. Students benefit from global partnerships with organisations such as WWF, Eco-Schools, LEGO Education, and CenturyTech, enriching learning through sustainability projects, creative experiences, and technology. Exclusive initiatives such as AI projects, “The Journey” outdoor programme, and global events further enhance education. Students in Portugal have already participated in academic, sports, and music events in France, Italy, Spain, and the UK. Significant investment in infrastructure also sets these schools apart. State-of-the-art campuses and enhancements to existing facilities provide modern learning environments, preparing students for a rapidly evolving world.
How do innovation and technology shape learning?
Innovation and technology are central to Globeducate’s approach, fostering interactive and personalised learning. AI, robotics, and 3D printing equip students with problem-solving, creativity, and technological proficiency, while ethical digital citizenship ensures they understand technology’s societal impact. Teachers receive specialised training supported by cutting-edge resources and the group’s global Head of AI, Richard Human. Initiatives such as the AI Sustainable Cities and AI Chatbot projects have been internationally recognised, earning awards. Importantly, innovation is balanced with student wellbeing and ethics in technology.
How is international education evolving, and how is Globeducate preparing?
It is clear to us that globalisation, technological advancements, and sustainability are reshaping education. Schools must evolve beyond traditional models to prepare students for a dynamic world, and teachers must be supported in order to prepare, inspire, and educate students. Globeducate embraces this shift by embedding innovation, sustainability, and global citizenship into its curriculum. A strong focus on diversity, inclusion, wellbeing, and character development ensures students receive a well-rounded education beyond academic results.
What are Globeducate’s plans for its schools in Portugal?
Globeducate’s vision for Portugal is to create thriving learning environments where students and staff feel inspired, engaged, and where they can excel. Long-term investment in modern facilities, teacher training, and innovative learning experiences remains a priority. By fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment, students develop confidence, creativity, resilience, and a strong sense of how to make a positive impact. Globeducate remains committed to keeping its schools in Portugal at the forefront of international education.
Innovation and technology are central to Globeducate’s approach, fostering interactive and personalised learning.
